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Small Water System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Revolution is now hiring for a Night-Shift Water System Operator position in Flint, MI. This role will be responsible for overseeing and maintaining the water treatment system supporting the wash ...

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 ...

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 Jul 19, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Small Water System Operator, and why are they important?

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 are small water system operators?

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 some 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:
Infographic showing various Small Water System Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,351 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
Water System Operator

$63K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Department: Public Works

Division: Operations

Salary: Operator Level 1) $43,180 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience)

Salary: Operator Level 2) $45,590 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience)

Salary: Operator Level 3) $53,659 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience)

Salary: Operator Level 4) $63,155 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience)

General Purpose:

Performs a variety of entry, apprentice level semi-skilled duties related to the construction, installation, maintenance and repair of the cities potable and non-potable water systems.

Supervision Received:

Works under general supervision of the Water System Supervisor and/or Treatment Supervisor. May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a project-by-project basis.

Supervision Exercised:

None

Essential Functions:

Water: Operates various types of equipment such as, rollers, compactors and trenching equipment; performs installation or repair of water service connections, water lines and meters; flushes, repairs or replaces fire hydrants and plugged water meters; repairs water mains; cleans and maintains storage tanks, cleans reservoirs; connects and disconnects service; searches out shut off valves; water line leaks; assists in placement of pipe and water regulators; removes, disassembles, cleans or replaces defective parts of regulators, adjusts pilot valves as needed to assure efficient water line service.

Installs new water lines using pipe threaded, tapping machine, welder, pipe cutting saw, pipe and cable locator. tears out and repairs curb, gutter and street in locating and uncovering broken lines; builds meter boxes; builds extensions to raise or lower existing boxes as needed.

Operates a variety of hand tools and small power equipment such as jack hammers, roller, compressors, packing machine, gopher, tamper, tapping machine; cleans tools and equipment to assure proper working order.

Performs repairs and maintenance on pump stations, pumps, valves, wells, cleaning of reservoirs, etc.; monitors city water well storage levels; insures proper maintenance of electrical, pumping, chlorinating and storage equipment; maintains records of water lines, pumps and valves, storage levels, etc.

Conducts water sampling and delivers to State-certified laboratory for analysis; monitors chlorine levels; tests water using DPD tester to assure proper chlorine residual levels; reads water flow meter, chlorine pound per day gauge; calculates chlorine dosage and makes proper adjustments.

Installs water meters for new services; performs field and shop repairs on water meters, removes meter, disassemble, cleans and/or replaces defective parts, reassembles and tests to assure proper working order; sets blue stake markers.

Participates in work zone safety procedures; flags on coming vehicles to protect the public and workers; sets up warning signs and signalization equipment.

Performs general maintenance in the upkeep of facilities and equipment; paints water tanks, well buildings, floors, etc.; assures clean and functional work areas; operates high pressure steam cleaning equipment as needed.

Performs other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:
  1. Education and Experience:
  1. Graduation from high school;
    AND
  2. One (1) general work experience performing above or related duties;
    OR
  3. An equivalent combination of education and experience.
  1. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
    Some knowledge of operating basic manual and power tools; the standard practices, methods, materials and tools necessary for pipe line construction and repair activities; pipe fitting procedures, pipe classifications and type; the occupational hazards and safety precautions of trench work construction and pipeline maintenance work; hazards common to heavy equipment operation; drain system construction methods etc.; interpersonal communication skills.

Ability to operate heavy equipment of various kinds under varying conditions; make minor repairs on assigned vehicles, perform heavy
physical labor; develop and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, elected officials, local agencies and the general public;
communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; work from blueprints; tolerate weather extremes in the work environment; perform basic mathematical computations in reading and using various meters, gauges and related devices.

  1. Special Qualifications:
    Must possess a valid commercial drivers license. Must be able to lift 50-75 pounds. Must be willing to work on-call duty and 24-hour standby. Within twelve (12) months, must become a certified flagger. Within 12 months, must become a certified state Water System Operator level I,
  2. Work Environment:
    Tasks require variety of physical activities, generally involving muscular strain, such as walking, standing, stooping, sitting, and reaching. Talking, hearing and seeing essential to performing required job functions. Common eye, hand, finger dexterity exist. Mental application utilizes memory for details, verbal instructions, emotional stability and discriminating thinking.
Benefits:

Washington City provides full time employees with an excellent benefit package including a healthcare plan (no out of pocket expense for employee/dependent coverage), dental plan (no out of pocket expense for employee, out of pocket expense for dependents only), and a vision plan (no out of pocket expense for employee/dependent coverage). In addition, the City provides a $50,000 life insurance policy, AD&D, LTD, and an impressive retirement plan. Washington City also contributes 4.5% into a 401(K) plans for all eligible employees that are in the public employee fun. All benefits are effective on the1st day of work. The City also provides 12 paid holidays, 12 paid sick days per year plus vacation accruals.

It is the policy of Washington City to comply with Equal Employment Opportunity standards in all phases of personnel administration: job structuring, recruitment, examination, selection, appointment, placement, training, upward mobility, discipline, discharge, etc, without unlawful regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, physical or mental disability, national origin or veteran status.


As per Washington City policy and/or procedures, a background check, and drug screening evaluation will be required for potential new hire candidates prior to an offer of employment. I understand that if I am under the age of 18, I must have my parent or my legal guardian grant their permission for the background check and drug screening test to be performed.