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Treatment Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$39K/yr

Under supervision (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I), general supervision (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator m, or direction (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Ill), performs a variety of ...

Treatment Plant Operator I

Mobile, AL · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

General Information This is routine work in operating a wastewater or water treatment plant and allied appurtenances while on an assigned shift. Jurisdictions Yearly Salary Mobile Area Water and ...

Showing results 21-40

Treatment Plant Operator information

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$30.5K

$53K

$85.5K

How much do treatment plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for treatment plant operator in the United States is $52,962.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $59,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 strict environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment systems also influence earning potential.

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 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.

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 role can be physically demanding and often requires working in shifts, including nights and weekends, but proper training and certifications can help manage the job's challenges.
More about Treatment Plant Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Treatment Plant Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Treatment Plant Operator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Treatment Plant Operator jobs?

The top employers for Treatment Plant Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Treatment Plant Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Treatment Plant Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Treatment Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,962 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

$39K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description Summary Description: Under supervision (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I), general supervision (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator m, or direction (Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Ill), performs a variety of duties essential to the operation of a major wastewater treatment, disposal, and reclamation facility on an assigned shift; inspects, operates, monitors, and maintains a variety of facilities, equipment, and systems involved in various processes of the wastewater treatment plant facility; monitors plant operation through visual observation and computer screens; regulates flows; performs chemical analysis and tests; and performs a variety of related duties to ensure the facility's final effluent is of the best quality in order to protect all downstream receiving waters and their users while utilizing plant resources wisely and efficiently. Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I -This is the entry level class in the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator series. Positions at this level have prior experience in the operation, repair, and maintenance of machinery, pumps, or mechanical equipment, including some experience in a wastewater treatment plant, but are not expected to function with the same amount of program knowledge or skill level as positions allocated to the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator II level and exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods.

Individuals at this level are expected to become fully knowledgeable of the assigned area and to learn the full range of plant maintenance, repair, and operations functions. Certification as a Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator is required. Duties and Responsibilities Performs the full range of duties related to plant operations; operates a variety of facilities, systems, equipment, pumps, and valves; learns to operate and maintain new systems and equipment as necessary.

Performs a variety of equipment maintenance duties; inspects, removes, deans, lubricates, backwashes, repairs, maintains, and reinstalls equipment related to a variety of wastewater treatment plant facilities, systems, grinders, drip traps, scales, centrifuges, hydrovanes, tanks, pumps, valves, and piping systems; cleans and calibrates meters and probes; performs general housekeeping of all areas associated with assigned facilities. Performs a variety of process control related duties; collects samples from various plant processes for chemicaVbiological analysis; operates and calibrates automatic samplers; collects storm channel water samples outside the plant as necessary; performs a variety of tests and analysis; measures primary and secondary settling basins sludge depths; performs mathematical calculations including those related to flows, areas, volume, weight, force, pressure, chemical dosage, and those related to various tests and analysis; evaluates laboratory testing results and calculations and implements results in operational control Investigates and acknowledges alarms throughout the wastewater treabnent facility; monitors, polls, and responds to lift station alarms; locates and notifies standby personnel to respond to lift station alarms; provides support, security, and communication to maintenance personnel at lift stations when responding to alarms. Monitors and maintains leak detection system.

Performs a variety of recordkeeping duties; creates new log books and properly stores old records and log books; ensures NPDBS permits are properly maintained and available; Performs a variety of duties in response to power outage emergencies; operates, monitors, adjusts, and maintains backup generators; responds to power outages by properly resetting, restarting, and bringing systems essential to proper plant operations back on-line; maintains proper fuel levels in generators and storage tanks. Performs a variety of duties in response to wet weather emergencies; operates, monitors, and adjusts plant drainage system; places sand bags around excess storage pond perimeter; stages, operates, monitors, and lubricates emergency trash pumps. Performs a variety of public relations related duties; conducts tours and provides educational information; receives, investigates, documents, and responds to odor complaints; receives telephone inquiries &om the public; answers questions and directs inquiries to appropriate personnel as necessary.

Participates in a variety of training activities; studies equipment manuals for all facility equipment; receives training on new equipment and processes as well as initial and periodic re&esher training on processes, procedures, systems, and equipment related to assignment maintains familiarity with all standard operating procedures pertaining to equipment and plant processes; may provide training to new operators-in-training on equipment and plant processes. Performs and participates in a variety of safety related duties and activities; follows all safety standard operating procedures when performing work; maintains awareness of and reports/corrects any trip hazards, spills, and unsafe equipment; properly handles, stores, and labels various chemicals; maintains familiarity with the Chemical Spill Response Plan; maintains familiarity with lift station spill procedures and responses; inspects, cleans, and maintains eye-wash stations; maintains and inspects all personal protective equipment and restocks as necessary; maintains and updates MSDS catalog; maintains proper facility lighting; performs proper lock-out/tag-out procedures; secures facility perimeter and ensures buildings and vehicles are secure. Operates a light truck in and out of plant.

Operates tractor, forklift or other vehicles/carts inside the plant grounds as required. Performs related duties as required. Minimum Qualifications A High School Diploma or GED from an Accredited school.

Supplemented by college-level coursework or trade school training in wastewater treatment technology. Two years of experience in the operation, repair, and maintenance of machinery, pumps, or mechanical equipment including one year of experience in a wastewater treatment plant. Possession of a Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate.

A valid US Virgin Islands driver's license is required. How to Apply Please visit our website: www.viwma.org / https://www.viwma.org/index.php/about-viwma/career-opportunities to apply or call: St. Croix: 340-712-4962 | St

Thomas/St. John/Water Island: 340-715-9100. DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED.

The Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer