ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Pump Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

VOLT

Machine Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Responsible for measuring, recording, and validating pump components using tools like Vernier ... Responsible for operating all manual machinery, support pump teardown and assembly, and follow ...

The Donohoe Companies, Inc.

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA

$45 - $50/hr

Responsibilities include boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, generators, and diesel fuel ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

Complete Building Services

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Responsibilities include boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, generators, and diesel fuel ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

Complete Building Services

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA

$45 - $50/hr

Responsibilities include boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, generators, and diesel fuel ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

Donohoe Companies Inc., The

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA

$45 - $50/hr

Responsibilities include boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, generators, and diesel fuel ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

Inframark

Water Operator II

Chatham, VA · On-site

Operates water pumping mechanisms to regulate flow and pressure of water during assigned shifts to ... operating conditions, meters, and gauges to determine load requirements and detect problems

Inframark

Water Operator

Altavista, VA · On-site

WATER OPERATOR I The Water Operator is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in ... Operates a variety of equipment/machinery, including valves, pumps, motors, belt presses ...

The Lycra Company LLC

Polymer Operator I

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$29.78 - $32.52/hr

Operate valves, pumps, troubleshoot equipment, and complete field rounds * Oversee the sampling and ... Or; 2+ year machine operator experience * Or; Associates Degree or higher in a technical field (IE.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPump Operator JobsPump Operator Jobs in Virginia

Pump Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$27.3K

$51.6K

$73.4K

How much do pump operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for pump operator in Virginia is $51,644.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pump operator?

Pump operators handle pumps and manifold systems that transfer liquids, gases, and powdered material at a variety of utility and manufacturing plants. As a pump operator, you monitor pressure and temperature gauges to ensure that there are no abnormalities with the transfer of the materials. Your responsibilities include keeping a careful record of all the data you observe and paying attention to any discrepancies that might indicate a safety or operational problem. Pump operators also tend to the vessels that contain the materials they are pumping. For a career as a pump operator, you need strong mechanical skills, the ability to read gauges, and be able to perform simple math and data analysis.

What is the difference between Pump Operator vs Well Pump Technician?

AspectPump OperatorWell Pump Technician
CertificationsMay require OSHA safety training, CDL in some casesOften requires specialized certifications in well and pump systems
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plants, water treatment facilitiesWell sites, water systems, rural and urban water supply locations
Industry UsageWater, oil, and gas industries, constructionWater supply, municipal, and private well systems

While both Pump Operators and Well Pump Technicians work with pumps, Pump Operators typically focus on operating and maintaining pumps in industrial or construction settings, often requiring safety certifications. Well Pump Technicians specialize in installing, repairing, and maintaining well pumps used in water supply systems, often needing specialized technical certifications. The roles overlap in work environment and industry but differ in technical focus and certification requirements.

What are some common challenges pump operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them effectively?

Pump Operators often work in rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, which can lead to fatigue and disrupt personal routines. Managing these challenges involves maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, staying hydrated, and communicating proactively with team members to ensure smooth handovers between shifts. Additionally, being vigilant about equipment monitoring and troubleshooting under varying conditions is crucial for operational safety and efficiency.

What does a pump operator do?

A Pump Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining pumps and related equipment used to move liquids, such as water, chemicals, oil, or gas, through pipelines or other systems. Their duties include starting and stopping pumps, monitoring gauges and flow meters, performing routine maintenance, and troubleshooting any issues that arise. Pump Operators often work in industries like water treatment, oil and gas, manufacturing, or construction, ensuring that the flow of materials is consistent and meets operational requirements. Safety and adherence to regulations are also important aspects of the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pump operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pump Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, equipment maintenance, and basic math, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with pump control systems, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA or HAZWOPER are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently under pressure are essential soft skills. These abilities ensure safe, efficient operation of pumping equipment and help prevent costly downtime or accidents.
More about Pump Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Pump Operator jobs in Virginia? For Pump Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pump Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Pump Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Pump Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Pump Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Pump Operator jobs in VA? For Pump Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Pump Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pump Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,644 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Wastewater Treatment Operator Trainee

City of Hopewell

Hopewell, VA • On-site

$40K - $54K/yr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description Performs intermediate technical work learning to operate and maintain wastewater treatment plant equipment, performing routine tests, performing general plant and grounds maintenance tasks, and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under moderate supervision. Examples of Duties Makes tours of plant and checks engines, generators, pumps, aerators, tanks, filters, clarifiers and other equipment for proper functioning.

Operates and maintains wastewater equipment used in treatment and solids handling including operating multiple hearth furnaces and ash handling processes. Performs assigned tasks related to permits and regulatory compliance including documentation, sampling, analysis, recordkeeping, and reports; maintains and checks logs and records for accuracy and completeness. Checks and records readings from meters, gauges, and instruments; operates handheld meters; reads and records data on plant operations.

Pumps sludge, rakes bar screen; cleans and clears basins, troughs, etc. Checks machinery and pumps for proper operation. Starts, stops, and/or adjusts motors, pumps, and other plant equipment according to changes in operating conditions.

Adds chemicals per prescribed standards. Observes and collects samples of wastewater effluent; performs simple biological, chemical, and physical laboratory tests; enters test results. Skims grease from settling tanks.

Performs minor equipment adjustments and repairs. Typical Qualifications Minimum Education and Experience: High school diploma or GED and minimal experience in the operation and maintenance of machinery and equipment, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Licenses and/or Certifications: Valid driver's license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Obtain a Class IV Wastewater Works Operator license within eighteen months of hire. Obtain 20 hours of operations specific (ex. Sacramento courses, DEQ, Rural Water, etc.), City, and Safety training

Obtain Forklift Operator training within one year of hire. Knowledge: Some knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a wastewater treatment plant. Some knowledge of hydraulic, chemical, and mechanical principles pertinent to wastewater treatment plant operations.

Some knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and of the necessary safety precautions. Skills: Skill in the use and care of hand tools. Abilities: Ability to pass a red and green color blindness test and to work with hazardous chemicals.

Ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and to determine proper remedial measures. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Ability to read meters and charts accurately and to maintain records of shift operations.

Supplemental Information Work Environment: Worker is exposed to outdoor weather conditions, extreme noise, odors, heights, dust and/or fumes and hazardous materials such as oil, chlorine gas, ammonia, fluoride caustic soda, and sulfuric acid. Essential Physical Activities: Stooping, crouching, walking, pulling, lifting, grasping, hearing, seeing up close, kneeling, reaching, pushing, talking, standing, finger movement, depth perception. Typical weight handled: up to 50lbs.

Apply