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Small Water System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SANTEE COOPER

WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR

Moncks Corner, SC · On-site

$33.35 - $41.65/hr

Water System Operator A * High School Diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance + 5 years experience required. * Associate's Degree preferred. * Must ...

Washington City

Water System Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a ... Operates a variety of hand tools and small power equipment such as jack hammers, roller ...

Washington City

Water System Operator

Washington, UT

$63K/yr

May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a ... Operates a variety of hand tools and small power equipment such as jack hammers, roller ...

City of San Luis, AZ

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

OPERATOR I Under immediate supervision performs basic installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of water distribution system. * Assist and operate specialized equipment, machines, and ...

Sacramento County, CA

Water System Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$81K - $98K/yr

Under direction, Water System Operators perform work in connection with the operation, maintenance, construction, and repair of water distribution systems, water treatment facilities, water wells ...

Tucsonaz

Water System Operator

Newberry Springs, CA

The Water System Operator is responsible for identifying problems within the water system and making appropriate adjustments to ensure appropriate water supply, quality, and pressure. Work is ...

New

City of San Luis

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

OPERATOR I Under immediate supervision performs basic installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of water distribution system. Assist and operate specialized equipment, machines, and vehicles ...

Nucor

Water System Operator

Lake Panasoffkee, FL · On-site

$60K/yr

Monitors chemical systems. * Collects samples for water testing. * Adjust metering pumps as needed ... Monitor water flow by clearing small jams in water lines using water/air compressor * Performs ...

Nucor

Water System Operator

Lake Panasoffkee, FL · On-site

$60K/yr

Monitors chemical systems. * Collects samples for water testing. * Adjust metering pumps as needed ... Monitor water flow by clearing small jams in water lines using water/air compressor * Performs ...

Misti Pett

Water System Operator

South Paris, ME · On-site

$60K/yr

Monitors chemical systems. Collects samples for water testing. Adjust metering pumps as needed ... Monitor water flow by clearing small jams in water lines using water/air compressor Performs ...

Misti Pett

Water System Operator

South Paris, ME · On-site

$60K/yr

Monitors chemical systems. Collects samples for water testing. Adjust metering pumps as needed ... Monitor water flow by clearing small jams in water lines using water/air compressor Performs ...

City of Torrance, CA

WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR II

Torrance, CA · On-site

$6.7K - $7.7K/mo

The City of Torrance is recruiting for a Water System Operator II t o be part of the Public Works Department's Torrance Municipal Water Division Team! The Department The Public Works Department ...

The city of Marietta

Water System Operator 2026

Marietta, GA · On-site

$20.75 - $23.67/hr

Must have a high school diploma or GED and minimum experience of at least one year as an Apprentice System Operator or equivalent water and wastewater construction experience, to include skill in the ...

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Small Water System Operator information

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$14

$30

$49

How much do small water system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for small water system operator in the United States is $30.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $36.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Small Water System Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and basic mechanical skills, often supported by a high school diploma and state operator certification. Operators commonly use water testing equipment, SCADA systems, and basic lab analysis tools to monitor and manage water quality. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe delivery of potable water, compliance with health standards, and prompt resolution of operational issues.

What is the difference between Small Water System Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectSmall Water System OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires state-specific water operator licensesRequires state or federal water treatment operator licenses
Work EnvironmentManages small community or municipal water systems, often on-siteOperates large-scale water treatment facilities, often in industrial settings
Employer & IndustryLocal government, small municipalities, private water providersMunicipalities, industrial plants, large water treatment facilities

The Small Water System Operator and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on water quality and safety. However, the Small Water System Operator typically manages smaller systems with fewer resources, while the Water Treatment Plant Operator handles larger, more complex facilities. Both roles are essential for maintaining safe drinking water and are often searched for by individuals seeking careers in water management.

What is a small water system operator?

Small water system operators are professionals responsible for managing, maintaining, and monitoring water supply systems that serve small communities or facilities, typically with fewer than 3,300 people. Their duties include ensuring water quality, conducting routine inspections, testing for contaminants, and maintaining equipment. They must comply with local, state, and federal regulations to ensure the water is safe for public consumption. Operators may also be involved in emergency repairs and customer communication regarding water safety. Certification and ongoing training are often required for this role.

What are common challenges faced by small water system operators, and how can they be addressed?

Small Water System Operators often face challenges such as limited staffing, tight budgets, and aging infrastructure. These factors can make it difficult to keep up with regular maintenance, regulatory compliance, and unexpected repairs. Operators can address these challenges by prioritizing preventive maintenance, staying up-to-date with training and certification requirements, and establishing strong communication with local authorities and regulatory agencies. Networking with other operators and leveraging available resources can also help in troubleshooting and problem-solving.
More about Small Water System Operator jobs
What states have the most Small Water System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Small Water System Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Small Water System Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Small Water System Operator jobs are:
Small Water System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Water System Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,351 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR

SANTEE COOPER

Moncks Corner, SC • On-site

$33.35 - $41.65/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Santee Cooper rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Position Description:
Operates, troubleshoots, and helps maintain all water systems process equipment. Must be able to work rotating shifts. Must be well versed and knowledgeable of all State/Federal safe drinking water regulations to ensure safe, reliable drinking water at all times. Is required to earn and maintain a valid South Carolina Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license due to regulatory requirements.
Essential Job Tasks:
  • Treats and distributes safe, reliable potable drinking water that meets all SCDES and USEPA standards to the Lake Moultrie Agency members. This job task includes the monitoring, analyzing, and changing of chemical dosages or other treatment methods based on raw water conditions, regulatory requirements, laboratory testing, as well as optimization and pilot studies.
  • Mentors and provides guidance and on-the-job training to new Operators as assigned.
  • Collects and analyzes water and wastewater samples.
  • Maintains laboratory bench sheets.
  • Maintains logbook records and monitors all water treatment/distribution instrumentation on SCADA system.
  • Determines from analytical data what operational adjustments need to be made to the drinking water/distribution system.
  • Assists and coordinates day-to-day operations with Lake Moultrie Water Agency members with regards to water quality and delivery.
  • Supports all internal/external team members on daily goals and work activities.
  • Starts up and shuts plant down; checks, cleans, and maintains filters, valves and machinery; loads chemicals into automatic feeder systems, calibrates equipment and verifies feed rates.
  • Inspects buildings and process equipment and writes work orders for maintenance and repair work.
  • Prepares shift turn over sheets with in- or outgoing operators. Answers the telephone, starts emergency generator equipment, and manages power usage during normal operations as well as physical/economic curtailments.

*Will consider Water System Operator A, B, C, D, E or T
Position Requirements:
Water System Operator A
  • High School Diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance + 5 years experience required.
  • Associate's Degree preferred.
  • Must a have SC LLR Class "A" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license.
  • SC "A" Water Distribution Operator license preferred within 4 years of employment.
  • Confined Space Entry and other Safety Training required.

Compensation Information:
$33.35 - $41.65 (min. - mid.)
Water System Operator B
  • High School Diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance + 3 years experience required.
  • Associate's Degree preferred.
  • Must have a SC LLR Class "B" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license.
  • SC LLR "A" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license and "A" Water Distribution Operator license preferred within 4 years of employment as a WSO B.
  • Confined Space Entry and other Safety Training required.

Compensation Information:
$30.05 - $37.55 (min. - mid.)
Water System Operator C
  • High School Diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance + 2 years experience required.
  • Associate's Degree preferred.
  • Must have a SC LLR Class "C" Water Treatment Operators license and obtain a Class "B" Water Treatment Operators license within 3 years of initial employment as a WSO.
  • SC LLR "A" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license and "A" Water Distribution Operator license preferred within 6 years of employment.
  • Confined Space Entry and other Safety Training required.

Compensation Information:
$27.00 - $33.75 (min. - mid.)
Water System Operator D
  • High School Diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance + 1 year experience required.
  • Associate's Degree preferred.
  • Must have a SC LLR Class "D" Water Treatment Operators license and obtain Class "B" Water Treatment Operators license within 3 years of initial employment as a WSO.
  • SC LLR Class "A" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license and "A" Water Distribution Operator license preferred within 6 years of employment.
  • Confined Space Entry and other Safety Training required.

Compensation Information:
$24.35 - $30.40 (min. - mid.)
Water System Operator E
  • High School Diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance + 1 year experience required.
  • Associate's Degree preferred.
  • Must have a SC LLR Class "E" Water Treatment Operators license and obtain a Class "B" Water Treatment Operators license within 4 years of initial employment as a WSO.
  • SC LLR "A" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license and "A" Water Distribution Operator license preferred within 6 years of employment.
  • Confined Space Entry and other Safety Training required.

Compensation Information:
$22.00 - $27.45 (min. - mid.)
Water System Operator T
  • High School Diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance.
  • Associate's Degree preferred.
  • Must have a SC LLR Class "B" Water Treatment Operators license within 4 years of initial employment as a WSO.
  • SC LLR Class "A" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license and "A" Water Distribution Operator license preferred within 6 years of employment.
  • Confined Space Entry and other Safety Training required.

Compensation Information:
$19.85 - $24.80 (min. - mid.)

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