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Treatment Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Resource Renew

Senior Treatment Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$35.81 - $40.83/hr

As a Senior Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, you will be responsible for monitoring, operating and controlling the daily operation of the wastewater collection and treatment facilities and ...

Resource Renew

Senior Treatment Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$35.81 - $40.83/hr

As a Senior Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, you will be responsible for monitoring, operating and controlling the daily operation of the wastewater collection and treatment facilities and ...

GHD

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Borger, TX · On-site

GHD has an exciting opportunity for a Wastewater/Water Treatment Plant Operator to be based on location in Questa, NM. As a Wastewater/Water Operator, you will be working with the Contamination ...

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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 Sep 5, 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.

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.

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:

What are popular job titles related to Treatment Plant Operator jobs?

For Treatment Plant Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Treatment Plant Operator jobs near you
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, 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% 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.

Senior Treatment Plant Operator

Resource Renew

Duluth, MN • On-site

$35.81 - $40.83/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Join Resource Renew as a Full-Time Senior Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. This on-site position located in Duluth, MN provides advanced technical expertise in treatment processes, equipment operation, regulatory compliance and system optimization. As a Senior Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, you will be responsible for monitoring, operating and controlling the daily operation of the wastewater collection and treatment facilities and related systems. In this role, you'll have the opportunity to collaborate with licensed operators and trades professionals to ensure safety, operational excellence and environmental stewardship within our community that District serves.
WHO WE ARE
Resource Renew, the brand of Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD), is committed to preventing pollution and protecting the environment, including the region's most precious resource - Lake Superior. Founded as a special purpose unit of government created by the Minnesota Legislature in 1971 to address serious environmental pollution problems in the lower St. Louis River Basin, Resource Renew provides wastewater and solid waste services and oversight for a 530 square mile region around Duluth, Minnesota. Our facilities include a main wastewater treatment plant, multiple pump stations, and solid waste collection sites of varied types.
WHAT DOES A SENIOR WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR DO?
  • Performs the role of Operator on Duty, which involves operating the wastewater treatment and collection system and monitoring related computer control and facility systems including heating, power generation and distribution
  • Provides overall process and facility oversight through monitoring and control of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to ensure operational issues are quickly identified and addressed through coordination of operations, maintenance and other necessary staff and resources
  • Maintains site security through monitoring of closed circuit television (CCTV), access control and other security systems; coordinates with necessary staff and resources to address any security issues, both within and outside normal business hours
  • Takes independent action to deal with emergency situations; coordinates the efforts of District employees in emergency response according to District procedures; secures and coordinates outside responders until relieved by the responsible District representative; alerts management of emergency conditions and documents as necessary
  • Receives, records and forwards communications from industrial users and the public; responds to public inquiries in a timely, helpful and professional manner and informs management of pertinent issues and/or process deficiencies
  • Monitors, controls and adjusts operating parameters based on established permit and limits and/or other facility considerations
  • Develops graphics and control charts needed to appropriately monitor the process; troubleshoots and provides the first level of correction for process computer problems
  • Maintains a high quality operational record of the wastewater treatment facility including daily operational data, key observations and process exceptions
  • Conducts routine inspections of plant operations and buildings and grounds
  • Develops and maintains standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the wastewater treatment plant and processes
  • Monitors and adjusts boiler operation according to special license requirements and following standard operating procedures determined by the Chief Boiler Engineer
  • Keeps up-to-date on the WLSSD National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements, air permit requirements and process performance
  • Maintains a constant awareness of safe work practices; ensures compliance with the District Safety Program to complete work without accidents or injuries

A TYPICAL SKILLSET FOR THE ROLE IS:
  • Knowledge of the NPDES wastewater discharge permit and air emissions permit requirements and the ability to recognize and respond to operating conditions which may lead to operating outside normal range or non-compliance
  • Knowledge of statistical process control methods and tools to analyze operating data and identify process issues and opportunities
  • Knowledge of theories and practices of wastewater treatment and advanced secondary treatment
  • Knowledge of the type and significance of laboratory tests performed in wastewater treatment operations including proper sampling techniques and wastewater testing protocols
  • Knowledge of equipment, facilities, materials, methods and procedures used in maintenance activities
  • Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the operation of wastewater treatment plant equipment and processes
  • Ability to act independently to coordinate district resources as needed to ensure consistent compliance with permit conditions
  • Ability to locate, troubleshoot and repair minor operational equipment deficiencies

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
  • A combination of education and/or experience that meets the qualification requirements of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Class "B" Wastewater Operator Certificate
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job may also be considered

Licenses and Certifications
  • Possess an Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Class "B" Wastewater Operator Certificate
  • Possess a Class "D" driver's license or equivalent
  • Possess (or obtain upon hire) a State of Minnesota Special Engineer (boiler) license

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH US!
  • 12 paid holidays + 4 personal leave days annually
  • Front-loaded vacation plan
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Public Employer Pension Program (PERA)
  • Basic Life Insurance, Supplemental Life and Long-Term Disability plans
  • Professional Development; Tuition Reimbursement, opportunities to attend conferences, training courses, and more!
  • Employee Wellness Programs; Fitness Reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Health and Safety Education, Wellness Committee, Environmental Stewardship and more!

SELECTION PROCESS & TESTING INFORMATION
Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications. Those who meet the minimum qualifications will be given an examination, which may consist of a written exam, a presentation, a hands-on test or an oral exam. Final selection will include a panel interview. Passing the examinations and interviews will require a score of 70% or higher.
Alternative Exam Process: For individuals who request reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), alternative examination processes are available on an individual basis upon prior arrangement. Contact Human Resources at (218) 740-4818.
Work Eligibility: In accordance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, Resource Renew requires verification of identity and work eligibility.
Veterans: Resource Renew is an equal opportunity employer and values the contributions of veterans. For applicants claiming veterans' preference, may voluntarily choose to provide proof of service, such as a DD214 during the selection process.
Non-discrimination: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status with regard to public assistance, disability, genetic information, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
You are not legally required to provide any of the private data listed above. Resource Renew employees from the Human Resources Department and other departments involved in the selection process may have access to your private data if their work assignments reasonably require access. Others who may legally access the above data are individuals or agencies to whom we are required to release the data by law, rule or court order.
This posting applies only to external applicants.

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