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Small Water System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Garland Texas

Water Systems Operator I

Apollo, PA · On-site

$19.37 - $24.96/hr

Summary This position is an "Operator in Training (OIT)" responsible for learning how to operate ... This position monitors the integrity of the Water Distribution System and provides 24-hour/7-day ...

City of Garland Texas

Water Systems Operator I

Apollo, PA · On-site

$19.37 - $24.96/hr

Summary This position is an "Operator in Training (OIT)" responsible for learning how to operate ... This position monitors the integrity of the Water Distribution System and provides 24-hour/7-day ...

BENTELER Group

Operator-Water Systems

Shreveport, LA · On-site

Preventative maintenance of water systems. * Perform maintenance on utilities within water systems to assure equipment efficiency. * Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Water, Compressed Air, Piping, etc. * Be ...

Benteler

Operator-Water Systems

Shreveport, LA · On-site

Preventative maintenance of water systems. * Perform maintenance on utilities within water systems to assure equipment efficiency. * Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Water, Compressed Air, Piping, etc. * Be ...

City of Duluth

Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

Operators are essential to the day-to-day monitoring, operation, and maintenance of this system. Important Application Information At this time, we are accepting applications for both Water Plant ...

City of Duluth, MN

Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

Operators are essential to the day-to-day monitoring, operation, and maintenance of this system. Important Application Information At this time, we are accepting applications for both Water Plant ...

City of Duluth, MN

Senior Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$78K - $95K/yr

Operators are essential to the day-to-day monitoring, operation, and maintenance of this system. Important Application Information At this time, we are accepting applications for both Water Plant ...

City of Duluth

Senior Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN

$78K - $95K/yr

Operators are essential to the day-to-day monitoring, operation, and maintenance of this system. Important Application Information At this time, we are accepting applications for both Water Plant ...

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Small Water System Operator information

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

As of Jun 5, 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 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.

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 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.

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

Water Systems Operator I

City of Garland Texas

Apollo, PA • On-site

$19.37 - $24.96/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Summary
This position is an "Operator in Training (OIT)" responsible for learning how to operate the City's water pump stations through automated controls and automated monitoring of City's sewer lift stations. This position monitors the integrity of the Water Distribution System and provides 24-hour/7-day per week/365 day per year call center and dispatch operations for water utility trouble calls. Also, responsible for serving as municipal 311 operator for after hour customer service calls.
Pay Range: $19.37 - $24.96 (Depends on qualifications and experience)
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Maintain departmental optimum water pressure to all areas of the City at all times via Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system
  • Monitor water inflow, outflow, tank/tower levels, and pressure throughout the water system, via SCADA.
  • Monitor Wastewater Collection System Lift Station operations data for 24 hour/7day per week/365 day per year operation, via SCADA.
  • Provide 24 hour/7day per week/365 day per year Water Utility operations and dispatching management support activities.
  • Provide after hour non-stand-by Animal Control dispatching and call management support activities for the municipality.
  • Provide 24 hour/7day per week/365 day per year intra-City after hour non-emergency support activities for the municipality.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED)
  • 1 year of related experience working in Water utilities, dispatch center, or equivalent Class D Water Distribution license required
  • Must be able to obtain a Class C Water Distribution license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) within 18 months from hire

Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.
Preferred Qualifications
Education/ Experience:
  • High School Diploma plus 6 months advanced study
  • 1-3 years related experience

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Basic knowledge of general dispatch operations
  • Basic knowledge of water utility operation systems
  • Skill in basic computer operations and the ability to learn new systems
  • Skill in multi-tasking
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule
  • Ability to provide clear communications and customer service via the phone

Licenses and Certifications
  • Class D Water Distribution license required
  • Must be able to obtain a Class C Water Distribution license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) within 18 months from hire
  • Valid Class C Texas driver's license

Physical Requirements / Work Environment
The incumbent works in a typical office environment; relatively free from unpleasant environmental conditions or hazards.

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