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Rural Water Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Benchmark, LLC

Locate Technician

Mechanicsville, VA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

C., Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Delaware.  We are currently recruiting a water ... Determine efficient route to each locate in rural and urban areas. * Remove and replace manhole ...

Benchmark, LLC

Locate Technician

Ashland, VA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

C., Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Delaware.  We are currently recruiting a water ... Determine efficient route to each locate in rural and urban areas. * Remove and replace manhole ...

Benchmark, LLC

Locate Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

C., Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Delaware.  We are currently recruiting a water ... Determine efficient route to each locate in rural and urban areas. * Remove and replace manhole ...

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Rural Water information

What is a rural water professional?

Rural water professionals are individuals who work to ensure safe, reliable, and accessible water services in rural communities. They are involved in the management, operation, and maintenance of water supply systems, including treatment and distribution. These professionals may work for local water utilities, government agencies, or private companies, and often perform tasks such as water quality testing, infrastructure repair, and community outreach. Their work is crucial for public health and the sustainability of rural areas.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a rural water operator?

To thrive as a Rural Water Operator, you need knowledge of water treatment processes, system maintenance, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water testing equipment, and reporting software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this field. These skills ensure safe, reliable water delivery and compliance with health standards, which are critical for rural communities.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in rural water management, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in rural water management often encounter challenges such as limited infrastructure, budget constraints, and the need to educate communities about proper water usage and conservation. Additionally, working in remote areas can make access to resources and technical support more difficult. Addressing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, collaboration with local stakeholders, and a proactive approach to maintenance and community engagement. Continuous training and support from government or non-profit organizations can also play a key role in overcoming these hurdles.

What is the difference between Rural Water vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectRural WaterWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater operator licenses, certifications in water systemsWater treatment operator licenses, certifications in water treatment
Work EnvironmentRural or small community water systems, fieldworkMunicipal water treatment facilities, plant-based work
Industry UsagePublic water supply for rural areasUrban and municipal water treatment plants

Rural Water professionals focus on maintaining and operating water systems in rural areas, often involving fieldwork and smaller-scale systems. Water Treatment Plant Operators work primarily in urban or municipal facilities, managing large-scale water treatment processes. While both roles require water treatment certifications, their work environments and system sizes differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Rural Water jobs in Virginia?

For Rural Water jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Rural Water jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Rural Water jobs in Virginia are:

Rural Water jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rural Water job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Wastewater Treatment Operator Trainee

City of Hopewell, VA

Hopewell, VA • On-site

$40K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Salary: $40,802.69 - $54,063.57 Annually
Location : City of Hopewell, VA
Job Type: Regular Full-Time
Job Number: HWR111324
Department: Hopewell Water Renewal
Opening Date: 11/13/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
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

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