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Senior Water Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Water Plant Operator

Louisburg, KS

Water Plant Operator Job Classification: Non-exempt, Full-Time Reporting Relationship: Water Plant Supervisor Work Location: Louisburg, KS Under the supervision of the Water Plant Supervisor, Water ...

Menasha Utilities

Water Plant Operator

Menasha, WI

$35.09 - $48.12/hr

Water Plant Operators are responsible for making minor repairs and adjustments to chemical feed equipment, pumps, and other water treatment processes. Work includes inspection and operation of motors ...

City of Baytown

Water Plant Operator I/II/III

Baytown, TX · On-site

$17.46 - $21.83/hr

Duties WATER PLANT OPERATOR I: Assists all shift personnel on procedures and troubleshooting plant operations. Tests water, records data and adjusts the treatment process accordingly. Makes ...

Menasha Utilities

Water Plant Operator

Manitowoc, WI · On-site

$35.09 - $48.12/hr

Water Plant Operators are responsible for making minor repairs and adjustments to chemical feed equipment, pumps, and other water treatment processes. Work includes inspection and operation of motors ...

City of Riverdale

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Water Plant Operator

Riverdale, ND · On-site

Water Plant Operator Location: Riverdale, North Dakota - Near Lake Sakakawea Salary: Negotiable, based on experience and certifications Employment Type: Full-Time Position Overview The City of ...

Anson County NC

Water Plant Operator

Lilesville, NC · On-site

$34K - $59K/yr

Water Plant Operator Salary Grade 60 Hiring Range: $34,356 - $59,589 General Description of Duties To produce safe and clean water for Anson County. Employees in this classification perform ...

County of Anson

Water Plant Operator

Lilesville, NC · On-site

$34K - $59K/yr

Water Plant Operator Salary Grade 60 Hiring Range: $34,356 - $59,589 General Description of Duties To produce safe and clean water for Anson County. Employees in this classification perform ...

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Senior Water Plant Operator information

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$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior water plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior water plant operator in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectSenior Water Plant OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires state certification and additional experienceRequires state certification, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentSupervises operations, oversees staff, manages complex systemsOperates and monitors water treatment equipment
Job ResponsibilitiesAdvanced troubleshooting, staff training, system optimizationRoutine operation, maintenance, and monitoring of water treatment processes

The main difference is that a Senior Water Plant Operator has more experience, supervisory duties, and handles complex system management, while a Water Treatment Plant Operator focuses on daily operational tasks. Both roles require similar certifications and work in water treatment facilities, but the senior position involves leadership and oversight responsibilities.

Where do water treatment operators make the most money?

Water treatment operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for water infrastructure, such as urban areas or states with extensive water treatment needs. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment systems also influence salary levels across different locations.

What is a senior water plant operator?

A senior water plant operator is a trained professional responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities. They ensure water quality meets safety standards, often supervising staff and using control systems, and typically hold relevant certifications and extensive experience in water treatment processes.

Is a water treatment plant operator a hard job?

A water treatment plant operator is a skilled role that involves monitoring and maintaining water quality, operating complex equipment, and following safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and requires attention to detail, technical knowledge, and often certification or training. It may involve shift work and handling potentially hazardous materials, making it a challenging but essential position in public health and safety.

How much do water plant operators make in the US?

Water plant operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level operators may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced certifications can earn higher wages, often working in shifts to ensure continuous plant operation.
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Senior Water Plant Operator jobs near you
Water Plant Operator

Water Plant Operator

U.S. Water Services Corporation

Boone, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

U.S. Water Services Corporation is a rapidly growing national water and wastewater utility operations company with more than 950 employees operating facilities in over twenty states. Our organization specializes in operations, maintenance, engineering, and construction services for municipal and private utilities.

We are seeking a motivated and dependable Water Plant Operator to support operations at the Boone, Iowa Water Treatment Plant. This position plays a critical role in ensuring safe, reliable, and compliant drinking water production for the community.

Position Overview

The Water Plant Operator is responsible for assisting in the daily operation, monitoring, and maintenance of a water treatment facility supplied by a wellfield under the influence of surface water. The plant utilizes aeration, lime softening, filtration, and disinfection processes to produce high-quality drinking water.

This position works under the direction of the Waterworks Supervisor (ORC) and supports all aspects of plant operations, compliance, maintenance, and facility upkeep. This is a hands-on role requiring strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to understand and respond to changing treatment conditions.

The position includes shift work, weekend coverage, and participation in an on-call rotation.

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate and monitor water treatment processes, including wellfield production, aeration systems, lime softening, filtration, and disinfection.
  • Adjust chemical feed systems based on raw water conditions and treatment goals.
  • Monitor key process parameters including turbidity, chlorine residual, pH, alkalinity, hardness, flow rates, and pressures.
  • Operate filtration systems and perform backwash cycles.
  • Utilize SCADA systems and respond to alarms.
  • Calibrate and verify instrumentation including analyzers and meters.
  • Collect samples and perform lab testing.
  • Handle and manage treatment chemicals, including bulk and day tanks.
  • Assist with maintenance and troubleshoot equipment issues and work with the facility CMMS program.
  • Maintain facility housekeeping and grounds.
  • Maintain accurate logs and documentation.
  • Work shifts, weekends, and on-call rotation.
  • Follow safety procedures and perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Iowa DNR Grade II Water Operator License preferred, but not required
  • Ability to obtain certification within required timeframe
  • Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Basic computer and SCADA and CMMS familiarity
  • Strong attention to detail
Additional Requirements
  • Valid Iowa Driver's License
  • Ability to work shifts, weekends, and holidays
  • Participation in on-call rotation
  • Ability to respond to emergencies
  • Ability to perform physical work
Why Join U.S. Water?
  • Competitive salary
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Life Insurance
  • Training and advancement opportunities

If you are a dependable individual looking to build a career in the water utility industry, we encourage you to apply.

Compensation and Benefits: Pay is commensurate with experience and market-reflective. US Water/USW Utility Group offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, paid time off, holiday pay and 401(k) with company match.

US Water/USW Utility Group offers competitive wages and benefits and is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

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