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Treatment Plant Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Covenant Health

SUPV-ENGINEERING

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Plant Engineering Supervisor Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift With more than 30 ... and evaluates operating log books, including fuel consumed, steam produced and water treatment ...

Covenant Health

SUPV-ENGINEERING

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Overview Plant Engineering Supervisor Full Time, 80 Hours Per Pay Period, Day Shift With more than ... and evaluates operating log books, including fuel consumed, steam produced and water treatment ...

The Timken Company

Supervisor Level 1 2nd shift

Mascot, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Develop and implement tactics to reduce operating expense to meet business plan goals. * Ensure the ... Ensure that all customer and plant orders are complete and packaged correctly. * Report all ...

Timken

Supervisor Level 1 2nd shift

Mascot, TN · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Develop and implement tactics to reduce operating expense to meet business plan goals. * Ensure the ... Ensure that all customer and plant orders are complete and packaged correctly. * Report all ...

Timken

Supervisor Level 1 2nd shift

Mascot, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Develop and implement tactics to reduce operating expense to meet business plan goals. * Ensure the ... Ensure that all customer and plant orders are complete and packaged correctly. * Report all ...

Timken

Supervisor Level 1 2nd shift

Mascot, TN · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

Develop and implement tactics to reduce operating expense to meet business plan goals. * Ensure the ... Ensure that all customer and plant orders are complete and packaged correctly. * Report all ...

Timken

Supervisor Level 1 2nd shift

Mascot, TN · On-site

$60 - $84/hr

Develop and implement tactics to reduce operating expense to meet business plan goals. * Ensure the ... Ensure that all customer and plant orders are complete and packaged correctly. * Report all ...

The Timken Company

Supervisor Level 1 2nd shift

Mascot, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Develop and implement tactics to reduce operating expense to meet business plan goals. * Ensure the ... Ensure that all customer and plant orders are complete and packaged correctly. * Report all ...

RimePro Inc

W/WW Civil Project Manager

Knoxville, TN · Hybrid

$100K - $125K/yr

Manage projects spanning treatment facility planning and design, water distribution lines, and ... Comfortable operating as a seller/doer, developing new business alongside a team Requirements

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All JobsTreatment Plant Operator JobsTreatment Plant Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Treatment Plant Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$26.5K

$46K

$74.2K

How much do treatment plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for treatment plant operator in Oak Ridge, TN is $45,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,400.00 and $51,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a treatment plant operator do?

A Treatment Plant Operator is responsible for managing the daily operations of water or wastewater treatment plants. Their main duties include monitoring and adjusting equipment, conducting tests to ensure water quality meets safety standards, and performing routine maintenance on machinery. They help ensure that treated water is safe for public use or that wastewater is properly treated before being released into the environment. Treatment Plant Operators play a critical role in protecting public health and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a treatment plant operator, and why are they important?

A Treatment Plant Operator needs a solid understanding of water or wastewater treatment processes, basic chemistry, and mechanical aptitude, typically backed by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and maintenance tools is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this position. These skills ensure the safe and efficient operation of treatment facilities, regulatory compliance, and protection of public health and the environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by treatment plant operators in ensuring regulatory compliance?

Treatment Plant Operators often encounter challenges related to maintaining compliance with strict environmental and safety regulations. These may include staying updated with changing standards, accurately monitoring water quality, and ensuring proper documentation of all procedures. Operators must be vigilant in detecting and responding to equipment malfunctions or process deviations to avoid violations. Team communication and ongoing training are essential to successfully meet compliance requirements and maintain public safety.

What is the difference between Treatment Plant Operator vs Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectTreatment Plant OperatorWastewater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires state-specific licenses or certificationsOften requires similar wastewater treatment certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates in water treatment facilities, handling drinking water or industrial waterWorks primarily in wastewater treatment plants managing sewage and wastewater
Industry UsageUsed in municipal, industrial, and environmental sectorsPrimarily in municipal sewage and wastewater management

Both roles involve operating and maintaining water or wastewater treatment systems, often requiring similar certifications and working in treatment facilities. The main difference lies in the focus: Treatment Plant Operators may handle drinking water or industrial water, while Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators specialize in sewage and wastewater treatment. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much do water treatment plant operators make in the US?

Water treatment plant operators in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $55,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and certifications, with some operators earning over $70,000 annually in higher-paying regions or with advanced skills.

Is a water treatment plant operator a hard job?

A water treatment plant operator's job involves monitoring and maintaining water treatment processes, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. The work can be physically demanding and often involves shift work, but proper training and certifications can help manage the job's challenges.

Where do water treatment plant operators make the most money?

Water treatment plant operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for skilled workers, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment systems also influence earning potential.
Treatment Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Treatment Plant Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,950 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Plant Operator -- Wastewater

Liquid Environmental Solutions

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Liquid Environmental Solutions rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 92 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Liquid Environmental Solutions is seeking a Plant Operator to join our team at our Wastewater Treatment Plant in Knoxville!
Schedule: Full time (40 hours) Monday through Friday, with Weekends as needed
Overnight Schedule: 2 PM - 10 PM
Location: Knoxville, TN
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Manages the space for incoming wastewater and treatment of the material.
  • Performs cleanup of the area as required.
  • Checks tank levels for necessary space for material processing.
  • Follows all safety and compliance rules and regulations.
  • Wears and properly uses safety equipment at all times.
  • Always works in a safe and compliant manner.
  • Operates and maintains shop equipment.
  • May perform preventative maintenance on all equipment.
  • Operates heavy equipment including forklift truck and skid steer.
  • May perform minor electrical maintenance functions.
  • Cleans and maintains process equipment.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITY REQUIREMENTS:
  • The ability to learn procedures related to the safe handling of materials.
  • Committed to growth in a company.
  • Collaborative with team members.
  • Good eye-hand coordination.
  • Organizational ability.
  • Reliable transportation.
  • The ability to be cross-trained to perform other jobs as needed.
  • Ability to communicate with others for safety and efficiency requirements.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
  • High school diploma or equivalent (Required).
  • One (1) year of experience as a Plant Operator with the maintenance of water pumps and plant machinery (Preferred).
  • Must be willing to work in environments with strong odors.
  • Must be willing to work in hot, cold, and wet conditions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • Lifting, climbing, and bending
  • Must be able to work on feet most of the workday
  • Varied weather working in hot, cold, and wet conditions
  • Strong odors and smells

Benefits:
  • Affordable medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and personal time off
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • 401k plan
  • 10-12 hour shifts daily; consistent and steady work schedules
  • Growing industry
  • Team environment
  • Local work, return to home terminal daily
  • Hourly pay with overtime
  • Industry-leading equipment and technology
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Employee referral bonus program

Who We Are:
Liquid Environmental Solutions is the nation's leading provider in the growing industry of liquid, non-hazardous waste solutions. We offer services such as waste collection, transportation, processing, recycling, reclamation, and disposal. For over 20 years, Liquid Environmental Solutions has been the trusted resource for responsibly managing non-hazardous liquid waste.
We have attracted thousands of customers to join us in our responsibility of protecting the environment. Collectively, we reduce greenhouse emissions, increase landfill diversion, and protect Earth's most precious resource - water. At every location, you will find team members committed to customer service, compliance and safety, the environment, and continuous improvement. You will also find that we are committed to our team members. Are you ready to join our team?
Liquid Environmental Solutions is committed to employing a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or disability.
Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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