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Utility Plant Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Plant Utility Division: Precision Pulley & Idler (PPI) Location: Humboldt, IA - On-site Shift: 1st ... Operating various machines, including lathes and mills, to produce precision components according ...

Required to train/qualify at the following operator jobs: § Cold Mill Operator § Coil Finishing ... Must be knowledgeable and be willing to comply with plant safety rules and departmental safety ...

$42.20/hr

Qualified Utility I Pay Rate: $34.70 ($32.15 + $2.55 Shift Differential) * Qualified Boiler Tech II ... Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of material handling ...

$28.93 - $31.12/hr

Power Plant Utility/Operator - Co-Generation Plant $1,500 Sign-On Bonus |$28.93/hr Starting Pay Location: ADM Soybean Processing Plant 1940 Hull Ave. Des Moines, IA 50313 Shift: 12-hr rotating swing ...

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Utility Plant Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$24

$34

How much do utility plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility plant operator in Iowa is $24.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Utility Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, process controls, and safety regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and standard operating procedures is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond to issues and coordinate with team members. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of utility plants.

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

Utility Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, responding to unexpected system alarms, and adapting to evolving safety regulations. Effective operators develop strong troubleshooting skills, stay current on safety protocols, and participate in regular training to keep up with technological advancements. Teamwork and clear communication with maintenance and engineering staff are also crucial for resolving issues promptly and minimizing downtime.

Is being a plant operator worth it?

Utility plant operators are responsible for monitoring and controlling equipment in power plants, water treatment facilities, or other utility systems. The job offers stable employment, requires technical skills, and often involves shift work, with salaries varying based on experience and location. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in infrastructure and operational technology.

What are Utility Plant Operators?

Utility Plant Operators are professionals responsible for controlling and maintaining the equipment that generates and distributes utilities such as electricity, steam, gas, or water. They monitor gauges, meters, and control panels to ensure equipment runs efficiently and safely, making adjustments as needed. Their work is essential for the continuous operation of power plants, water treatment facilities, and other utility services, and they often respond to emergencies or malfunctions to minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Utility Plant Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectUtility Plant OperatorPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; may require state licensingHigh school diploma; often requires licensing or certification
Work EnvironmentUtilities, water treatment, or power generation facilitiesPower generation plants, including fossil fuel, nuclear, or renewable sources
Industry UsageUtilities, water, and energy sectorsElectric power industry, power plants

Utility Plant Operators and Power Plant Operators both work in energy-related facilities, often requiring similar certifications and working environments. While Utility Plant Operators focus on maintaining and operating utility systems like water or energy distribution, Power Plant Operators specifically control and monitor power generation equipment. Both roles are essential in the energy sector, but their specific responsibilities and work settings differ slightly.

What is the work of a utility operator?

A utility plant operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling the equipment that generates and distributes utilities such as water, electricity, or gas. They perform inspections, maintain machinery, and ensure safety and compliance with regulations, often working with control systems and requiring technical skills and certifications. Their work environment typically involves shift work in power plants, water treatment facilities, or similar utility operations.

Where do wastewater operators make the most money?

Wastewater plant operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and more advanced infrastructure, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the size of the facility also influence earning potential, with larger plants often offering higher wages.

How to get hired as a power plant operator?

To become a power plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical school programs. Relevant skills include understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, and many employers require certification or licensing, such as a state-issued license or operator certification, depending on the facility and jurisdiction.
Infographic showing various Utility Plant Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,979 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Water Plant Operator

US Water Services Corporation

Grimes, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

U.S. Water Services Corporation is a well-established and diverse water and wastewater utility organization specializing in utility maintenance, operations, engineering and construction services. U.S. Water is a fast paced and rapidly expanding company headquartered in New Port Richey, Florida with a staff of over 950 employees in twenty states.


GENERAL PURPOSE

The Drinking Water Plant Operator operates and maintains water treatment, processing, and testing equipment in a water treatment facility to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements. Troubleshoots and diagnoses operational problems and takes corrective action per procedure and process knowledge. Monitors flow meters, gauges, flow ratios, pressures and related controls through instrument panels and programmable logic control units in assigned areas. Monitors and records operating conditions observations and data in area shift log. Ensures conformance to process specifications. Verifies and reports suspected malfunctions and variances to the supervisor. Performs routine and preventative maintenance and maintenance related items as assigned. Performs field laboratory tests (chemical and physical) in order to pace chemical dosages for efficient process control. Ensure that all safety and environmental requirements are consistently achieved including strict compliance.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Valid Iowa DNR Water License Grade 2 or higher
  • Valid Iowa driver's license
  • Must have previous maintenance experience

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs all operations and maintenance procedures.
  • Participates in complex and technical maintenance and repair tasks.
  • Monitors and adjusts the operation of water plant pumps, motors, and other equipment.
  • Accurately reads gauges, dials and other instruments that depict and/or record data. Services, maintains, and repairs a variety of water system equipment, including pumps, valves, motors, filters, and meters.
  • Inspects water system equipment and facilities to locate needed repairs, and makes repairs to various water system equipment as required.
  • Inspects and maintains water distribution facilities.
  • Assists in the training of other water department personnel.
  • Collects samples and assists in conducting a variety of chemical and physical tests.
  • Maintains clear and concise logs and records. Inspects water sources and water storage tanks.
  • Inspects, services and replaces meters, fittings, and meter boxes.
  • Operates a front-end loader and other vehicles.
  • Maintains all log books, records, and reports required by various laws and permits, as well as those necessary for efficient operation.
  • Performs general plant maintenance work such as sweeping, cleaning, painting, and landscaping.
  • May reads water meters.
  • Coordinates with other company departments for assistance or repair, and as necessary.
  • May be responsible for the ordering, storage and use of supplies needed for general operation of a water plant and outlying system responsibilities and their inventory.
  • Maintains a good relationship with the public and responds to complaints regarding operations. Regular and timely attendance.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

(A) Must have an active Iowa DNR Water Operator's License Grade 2 at a minimum; and (B) One (1) years of experience relating to the construction, repair, and maintenance of water collection or treatment systems including the operation of related maintenance equipment, or (C) Any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: (A) Thorough knowledge of equipment, facilities, materials, methods and procedures used in water collection and treatment systems; Considerable knowledge of water pipe installation, connection, and repair; Considerable knowledge of water treatment plant operation and maintenance. (B) Skill in the operation of the listed tools and equipment. (C) Ability to interpret specific chemical and biological analyses; Ability to guide, direct and motivate employees; Ability to organize and supervise the activities of various crews performing construction and maintenance work; Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other departments and the public.


TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Detection devices, mobile radio/phone, a personal computer (may include word processing, excel, and other software), copier and fax machine.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and smell.


Compensation and Benefits: Pay is commensurate with experience and market-reflective. US Water/USW Utility Group offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, paid time off, holiday pay and 401(k) with company match.

US Water/USW Utility Group offers competitive wages and benefits and is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro