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Utility Operator Jobs in Albuquerque, NM (NOW HIRING)

The Utility Lab Level II will be responsible for lab data entry water and will assist the Utility ... Maintains operating records, inspection reports, and EPA QA/QC. * Evaluates laboratory results and ...

UTILITY LAB LEVEL II

Bernalillo, NM · On-site

$28.21 - $31.73/hr

The Utility Lab Level II will be responsible for lab data entry water and will assist the Utility ... Maintains operating records, inspection reports, and EPA QA/QC. * Evaluates laboratory results and ...

The Water Operator I (laborer) position shall have a certification level 1 for water system ... Will help in completing water utility construction projects. Will be responsible for learning all ...

Locator I

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

The utilities may include (but not be limited to) gas, electric, cable TV, telecommunications, sanitary sewer, water lines, street lighting and other facilities within the predefined construction ...

Showing results 21-40

Utility Operator information

See Albuquerque, NM salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility operator in Albuquerque, NM is $25.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.29 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in Albuquerque, NM?

For Utility Operator jobs in Albuquerque, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Operator jobs in Albuquerque, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Operator jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

What cities near Albuquerque, NM are hiring for Utility Operator jobs?

Cities near Albuquerque, NM with the most Utility Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Utility Operator job openings in Albuquerque, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,611 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

$28.21 - $31.73/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

 Under the supervision of the Utility Lab Level III, the Utility Lab Level II serves as an assistant and is responsible for the collection and analyses of Water/Wastewater samples. The Utility Lab Level II will be responsible for lab data entry water and will assist the Utility Lab Level III on all EPA reports.

Our philosophy is built on the principles of integrity, fairness, collaboration, communication, and recognition for performance excellence. Meeting all performance standards leads to attracting and retaining a qualified workforce, provides opportunities for qualified team members, and contributes towards the ongoing success at Pueblo of Sandia today and in the future.  

 Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Collection, analyses and preservation of water and wastewater samples for chemical and biological properties.
  2. Prepares chemical agents.
  3. The use and calibration of laboratory equipment flow meters, chemical feed equipment and other monitoring equipment as required by operating standards.
  4. Maintains operating records, inspection reports, and EPA QA/QC.
  5. Evaluates laboratory results and notifies supervisor of required changes in process and procedures.
  6. Cleans and maintains all laboratory equipment.
  7. Purchases all lab supplies needed.
  8. Serves as a secondary Chain of Custody representative for Pueblo of Sandia regarding reports, sampling, and lab results.
  9. Cross trains in water and wastewater operations and maintenance.  May be required to perform routine operator 1 and /or 2 duties on an as needed.
  10. Punctual and regular attendance is an essential responsibility for all team members and are expected to report to work based upon the assigned schedule each day in accordance with the Attendance Policy for Pueblo of Sandia.  

 Additional Responsibilities

  1. Performs other job-related tasks as assigned.
  2. Strong interpersonal skills with all direct work associates as well as networking with all Team Members is essential throughout Pueblo of Sandia whether they hold public facing and/or back-of-the-house positions. 

All Team Members must:

  1. Be polite, friendly and professional always. 
  2. Demonstrate an approachable demeanor when working with all co-workers and Team Members throughout the company. 
  3. Reflect a kind, empathetic, patient, and respectful behavior with all internal and external business dealings.
  4. Support co-workers as needed to meet business demands. 
  5. Build professional work relationships with all Team Members while supporting a strong teamwork environment. 
  6. Maintain a friendly, professional and approachable demeanor in the performance of all duties

 Key Performance Indicators

This position has Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) identified as a measurement of success.  KPI’s will be shared to all team members who work in this job title and feedback will be provided regarding the successful completion of the KPI’s as part of the performance review process.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  1. Sample collection and chemical and biological testing, EPA methods and procedures, laboratory equipment, calibrations and troubleshooting.
  2. Ability to evaluate the laboratory results and make recommendations to process changes when required.
  3. Must be familiar with all safety procedures required in conducting the duties above described.
  4. Must be able to review and comprehend necessary updates to computer equipment and/or lab requirements.
  5. Must be able to ensure the lab obtains and/or maintains the Drinking Water Lab Certification
  6. Knowledge of the general principles, practices and the operation of Water/Wastewater Laboratories.
  7. Knowledge of chemicals used in treating water/wastewater.
  8. Knowledge of basic mathematics, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

   Education and Experience  

Required:

  1. High School Diploma, GED certification or equivalent. 
  2. Two years’ experience working in laboratory water or wastewater operations.

 Note:  Relevant work experience or education may be substituted to satisfy education and/or work experience. 

License/Certifications/Registrations

Required:

  1. Must possess and maintain a valid, unrestricted New Mexico Driver’s License.
  2. Must be able to successfully pass a stringent background investigation.
  3. Will require a pre-employment and random drug screening.
  4. The following licenses and/or certifications are required prior to employment start date:
    1. Wastewater Lab Tech II or Wastewater Systems IV certification
  5. Must successfully complete and maintain the following courses/training:
    1. CPR: within 60 days, renewal every 2 years.
    2. First Aide: within 60 days, renewal every 2 years.
    3. Confined Space: within one year, renewal every 2 years.

Preferred:

  1. Water Supply Level II certification
  2. Wastewater Systems III certification

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions

The following selected physical activities are required to perform the essential functions of this position

Physical Requirement

Description

Feeling

Perceiving attributes of objects, such as size, shape, temperature, or texture by touching with skin, particularly that of fingertips.

Finger Dexterity

Picking, pinching, typing or otherwise working, primarily with fingers rather than with the whole hand as in handling.

Grasping

Applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm.

Hearing

Perceiving the nature of sounds at normal speaking levels with or without correction. Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication, and to make the discriminations in sound.

Kneeling

Bending legs at knee to come to a rest on knee or knees.

Lifting

Raising objects from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position-to-position. This factor is important if it occurs to a considerable degree and requires substantial use of upper extremities and back muscles. (Up to 10 lbs.)

Pulling

Using upper extremities to exert force to draw, haul, or tug objects in a sustained motion. (Up to 10 lbs.)

Pushing

Using upper extremities to press against something with steady force to thrust forward, downward, or outward. (Up to 10 lbs.)

Reaching

Extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction.

Seeing

The ability to perceive the nature of objects by the eye.

Walking

Job requirements include, in the performance of duties, walking throughout the work area, on various work surfaces throughout internal or external locations.

Sitting

Particularly for sustained periods of time.

Standing

Particularly for sustained periods of time.

Stooping

Bending body downward and forward by bending spine at the waist. This factor is important if it occurs to a considerable degree and requires full motion of the lower extremities and back muscles.

Talking

Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word. Those activities in which they must convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately, loudly, or quickly.

List Working Conditions Required:

  1. Work is performed indoors and outdoors. Outside work is subject to temperature extremes and inclement weather conditions.
  2. Work hours subject to change with overtime work required.
  3. Subject to intermittent noise and vibration factors.
  4. Subject to unpleasant odors, fumes dust and mists.
  5. Work is conducted primarily during daylight hours except during emergencies.
  6. Work is performed on even or uneven terrain, while collecting samples and performing required testing.
  7. Wildlife (coyotes, rattle snakes, dogs etc.)
  8. Work in tight spaces for long periods of time
  9. Subject to hazards which may cause personal bodily harm; smoke; diseases; cuts bruises, burns, common cold, influenza, dust, odors and elevated noise levels.
  10. Tasks may be performed on uneven, inclined, hard and soft carpeted floors, cement structures and surfaces.
  11. Duties may involve walking, standing for long periods of time, sitting and crouching.