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Utility Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Printing Press Utility Operator

Neenah, WI · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Outlook Group is looking for a highly skilled Narrow Web Flexo Printing Press Operator to join our team as a Utility Operator and help us run the quality labels we are known for. This person will set ...

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Utility Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$26

$37

How much do utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility operator in Wisconsin is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $31.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Utility Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectUtility OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in safety and equipment operationHigh school diploma, certifications in water treatment and safety
Work EnvironmentFactories, power plants, utility facilitiesWater treatment plants, municipal facilities
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, energy providersMunicipalities, water service providers

Utility Operators and Water Treatment Plant Operators both work in utility environments and require safety and equipment operation certifications. However, Utility Operators often work across various utility sectors, while Water Treatment Plant Operators focus specifically on water purification processes. Both roles are essential in maintaining public utility services and share similar credentials and work environments.

What are the duties of a Utility Operator?

A Utility Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment used in the production and distribution of utilities such as water, gas, or electricity. They monitor systems, perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety protocols are followed. The role often requires knowledge of control systems, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications or licenses depending on the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, operational procedures, and safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pumps, valves, and relevant certifications such as OSHA or water/wastewater operator licenses is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators manage issues and collaborate with team members. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of utility systems and help maintain compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges Utility Operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them effectively?

Utility Operators often work rotating shifts, which can affect sleep patterns and personal schedules. Managing fatigue, maintaining consistent communication with team members across shifts, and responding quickly to unexpected equipment issues are common challenges. Effective strategies include adhering to a sleep routine, staying updated on shift handovers, and participating in regular safety and equipment training. Building strong teamwork and clear communication helps ensure smooth operations and minimizes downtime.

What Is a Utility Operator?

A utility operator is a machinist who works with different types of utility systems, such as water piping, wastewater plants, electrical cabling, or manufacturing equipment. Typical job duties include installation, maintenance, and repair of utilities. Qualifications for this job depend on the type of utilities but often include experience working with mechanical systems. Additional career skills include knowledge of specific types of machinery, such as overhead cranes and forklifts.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Utility operators can earn around $4,000 per week with experience, especially in specialized fields like power plant or water treatment plant operations. These roles often require technical skills, certifications, and on-the-job training but typically do not require a college degree. High-paying roles in skilled trades or industrial settings may also reach this level without a degree.

What are Utility Operators?

Utility Operators are responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining equipment and machinery in various utilities such as water treatment plants, power plants, or manufacturing facilities. Their main tasks include ensuring equipment runs safely and efficiently, performing routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, and making adjustments as needed. They may also record data, follow safety protocols, and coordinate with other team members to maintain continuous operations. Utility Operators play a crucial role in ensuring that essential services are delivered reliably to communities or businesses.

What is the Utility Operator's salary?

The average salary for a utility operator typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Utility operators often require technical skills and may need certifications such as OSHA or EPA licenses, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.

How to become a Utility Operator?

To become a utility operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical coursework related to utilities or machinery. Some positions require certifications such as OSHA safety training or operator licenses, and strong mechanical skills are beneficial for operating and maintaining equipment in utility environments.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in Wisconsin? For Utility Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in WI? For Utility Operator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Utility Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,783 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

$58K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Under the direction of the Deputy Director of Utilities, performs entry-level technical, maintenance, and operational work in the maintenance, inspection, repair, construction, and operation of the Village's water distribution and sanitary sewer collection systems. Employees in this classification perform a broad range of utility maintenance activities including utility locating, meter maintenance, water sampling, sewer maintenance, lift station operations, and emergency response. Incumbents may work independently or as part of a crew and are expected to maintain safe, reliable, and efficient utility services for Village residents and businesses.

This position's primary focus will be sanitary sewer collection systems. Job Duties Operates, maintains, repairs, inspects, and constructs components of the Village's water distribution and sanitary sewer collection systems. Installs, tests, repairs, replaces, and reads residential, commercial, and industrial water meters and related metering equipment.

Locates municipal water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, fiber optic, and street lighting utilities in compliance with Diggers Hotline requirements and utility locating standards. Maintains sanitary sewer and storm sewer systems through televising, catch basin cleaning, manhole inspections, repairs, and troubleshooting activities. Maintains, inspects, cleans, repairs, and troubleshoots sanitary sewer lift stations, pumps, valves, and related utility infrastructure.

Exercises water main valves, performs hydrant flushing, hydrant repairs, curb stop repairs, and distribution system maintenance activities. Assists with and responds to emergency utility situations including water main breaks, sewer backups, valve failures, hydrant repairs, customer complaints, and related operational emergencies. Coordinates and communicates with contractors, residents, utility personnel, and regulatory agencies regarding utility construction projects, service interruptions, maintenance activities, and operational concerns.

Utilizes SCADA systems, GIS applications, IT Pipes software, Microsoft Office applications, and related computerized utility management systems. Maintains accurate records including work orders, testing documentation, inspection reports, utility locating records, operational reports, and regulatory submissions. Provides customer service support by responding to utility-related inquiries, service requests, complaints, and emergency notifications.

Participates in rotating on-call assignments, after-hours emergency response, pump rounds, standby coverage, and seasonal snow removal operations. Performs preventative maintenance and inspections on assigned vehicles, tools, equipment, and utility facilities. Ensures compliance with confined space requirements, traffic control standards, safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, and departmental policies.

Performs related duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS Essential Knowledge and Abilities Working knowledge of municipal water distribution and sanitary sewer collection system operations, maintenance practices, and utility infrastructure. Working knowledge of utility construction, repair methods, utility locating procedures, meter maintenance practices, and preventative maintenance activities.

Working knowledge of occupational safety practices including confined space entry, trench safety, traffic control, lockout/tagout procedures, and emergency response protocols. Working knowledge with the basics of traffic control requirements and assist in maintaining and managing department inventory of supplies, materials, tools, signs, etc. Ability to diagnose operational problems and implement corrective actions under emergency and routine conditions.

Ability to plow with a single/tandem axle plow truck with front and wing mounted plows while operating a spreader and dump body for sand/salt application. Ability to read, write, and interpret scientific, technical, and operational documents, including reports, blueprints, schematics, diagrams, sketches, surveys, utility maps, system diagrams, technical manuals, operational reports, safety rules, maintenance instructions, and procedural manuals. Ability to use various computer programs, including but not limited to Microsoft Office, Cartegraph, Asset Management Systems, GIS Systems and SCADA systems.

Ability to communicate effectively with staff, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public. Ability to operate utility vehicles, pumps, trailers, hand tools, power tools, and related utility maintenance equipment safely and effectively. Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public.

Ability to respond effectively to emergencies, operational issues, and changing work priorities. Ability to serve "on-call" and available to respond in person within 45 minutes of a call. Ability to work weekend or evening hours as directed.

Ability to effectively interact with sensitivity with persons from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, educational, racial, ethnic, and professional backgrounds, and persons of all ages and lifestyles. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Job consists of a combination of sitting, standing, walking and driving. There will be exposure to heat, cold, wet, and slippery conditions.

Frequently subject to work outside of a normal work hour/week schedule as weather or circumstances dictate, e.g. snow storms, rain/wind storms, broken water mains, sewer failures or other events requiring response to protect the public as a result of natural or man-made circumstances. Typically, these events occur on an un-scheduled basis outside of normal work hours

In addition, there will be exposure to dust, noise and chemicals. Lift frequently 25 to 50 lbs., &/or constantly 10 to 20 lbs. A complete description of physical requirements is available upon request

Performs all duties in conformance with Village policies as described in the employee handbook and adherence to state and federal safety policies and standards. Minimum Qualifications Minimum Training and Experience High School Diploma or GED required. Valid Wisconsin Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with N endorsement within six (6) months of hire.

DNR Waterworks certifications- Distribution, Ground Water, Surface Water and Sanitary Collection with the ability to Obtain Grade 1 certification within 24 months. Preferred candidates will also have experience with the operations of various construction related equipment. Supplemental Information Please complete all required sections of the applications in its entirety.

It is not typical for someone to be hired at or near the top of the salary range. The specific compensation offered to a candidate is reviewed and based off a variety of factors including skills, qualifications, experience, certifications, and internal equity.