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Utility Systems Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Santa Fe County

Utility Systems Operator II

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$57K - $66K/yr

Provides basic training to Utility Workers and Operators I about the general operations of water and wastewater systems. * When necessary, performs duties associated with housekeeping and cleaning of ...

Santa Fe County

Utility Systems Operator III

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$66K - $79K/yr

Provides basic training to Utility Workers and lower level Operators about the general operations of water and wastewater systems. * When necessary, leads critical and complex evaluations to resolve ...

National Park Service

Utility Systems Repairer - Operator

WY · On-site +1

$39.36 - $45.92/hr

Summary You will serve as a Utility Systems Repairer - Operator Yellowstone National Park in the Facilities Division. Government housing may be available. The primary purpose of this position is to ...

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How much do utility systems operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility systems operator in the United States is $26.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility systems operator?

Utility Systems Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the equipment and systems that provide essential utilities such as water, electricity, steam, or gas to buildings, industrial sites, or municipalities. They ensure these systems operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations. Their duties often include inspecting equipment, reading meters, troubleshooting issues, and making adjustments to optimize performance. Utility Systems Operators play a vital role in preventing outages, minimizing downtime, and ensuring the reliable delivery of utility services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility systems operator?

To thrive as a Utility Systems Operator, you need a strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, water or wastewater treatment processes, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional technical training or certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and safety protocols is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are important soft skills for monitoring operations and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure reliable utility service, regulatory compliance, and safe, efficient system performance.

What are some common challenges faced by utility systems operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Utility Systems Operators often work in shifts to ensure around-the-clock operation of water, wastewater, or power systems. A common challenge is adapting to irregular hours, which can disrupt sleep patterns and work-life balance. To manage this, operators should prioritize healthy sleep routines, communicate with their team for smooth handovers, and stay vigilant during critical system checks. Many facilities offer support through rotating shifts or wellness programs to help operators maintain their well-being while meeting operational demands.

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

AspectUtility Systems OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and relevant certificationsRequires a high school diploma and water treatment certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates and maintains utility systems in various industriesWorks specifically in water treatment facilities
Industry UsageCommon in utilities, manufacturing, and energy sectorsPrimarily in municipal and industrial water treatment
Job FunctionsMaintains utility systems, monitors equipment, performs basic repairsOperates water treatment equipment, tests water quality, ensures safety standards

The Utility Systems Operator and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles share similarities in certifications and work environments, but differ mainly in industry focus and specific job functions. Utility Systems Operators have broader responsibilities across various utility systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in water quality and treatment processes.

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What states have the most Utility Systems Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Utility Systems Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Utility Systems Operator jobs look for?

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Utility Systems Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Systems Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,276 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Utility Systems Operator II

Santa Fe County

Santa Fe, NM • On-site

$57K - $66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Salary : $57,408.00 - $66,040.00 Annually
Location : Santa Fe, NM
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202600332
Department: Public Works
Division: Utilities
Opening Date: 08/19/2026
Closing Date: 9/11/2026 5:00 PM Mountain
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: AFSCME 1782
Department Contact Information: Tawny Baca (505) 992-9860
Union Eligibility: Position is Union eligible after completion of one (1) year probationary period.
Budget Amount: $31.75
Primary Purpose
To perform basic and mid-level duties in advance of appropriate and regulatory compliant operations of water and wastewater facilities used by the County to serve its customers and the public.
Essential Job Functions
  • Perform duties of basic and mid-level complexity in connection with the general and specialized operations of the County owned water and wastewater systems, which include pump stations, treatment plants, disposal fields and other.
  • Performs tasks of basic and mid-level complexity associated with the operation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of equipment, such as pumps, generators, pressurized vessels, blowers and compressors, metering devices.
  • Performs duties of mid-level complexity in chemical water treatment, biological wastewater treatment,
  • Under general supervision, adjusts flow rates, operates pumps and controls, performs repairs on equipment and maintains clear and accurate records of activities and events
  • Performs basic and mid-level calculations to determine conditions associated with water processes and operations, and reports on findings in written or oral form to supervisor and others.
  • Performs basic duties in connection with customer service in the field, and interacts with technical support staff of the Utilities.
  • Performs duties associated with collecting water and wastewater samples in accordance with standard procedures and regulatory requirements.
  • Performs basic laboratory testing on water and wastewater samples, reads, records and interprets meter and gauge data in the field, and maintains accurate shift logs.
  • Under general supervision, monitors and performs operations related with applicable regulatory compliance.
  • Performs duties associated with maintaining treatment plant work areas, grounds, equipment and tools, so that conditions are always conducive to a safe and health promoting environment.
  • Reports verbally and in writing about malfunctions, abnormalities and potential hazards associated with the daily operations of water and wastewater systems.
  • Performs public relations duties, makes presentations to members of the public to advance the public knowledge of water and wastewater systems.
  • Provides basic training to Utility Workers and Operators I about the general operations of water and wastewater systems.
  • When necessary, performs duties associated with housekeeping and cleaning of facilities
  • Performs duties associated with keeping inventory of equipment and tools, and reports about any losses, damages, or other conditions that may need managerial attention.
  • Performs mechanical work of basic and mid-level complexity in connection with preventive and corrective maintenance of equipment typically found in water and wastewater facilities.
  • Operates road machinery and associated equipment used in day-to-day operations of water and wastewater facilities.
  • Performs work orders by supervisor.

Knowledge / Skills:
  • Knowledge of physics and arithmetic of minor complexity, as necessary to support and justify water and wastewater treatment operations, trouble shooting and correction.
  • Reading comprehension of mid-level complexity and writing skills
  • Ability to learn occupational hazards and safety procedures in the wastewater operations and maintenance; ability to operate powered and manual equipment, machinery, and tools used in wastewater plant operations and maintenance; to establish effective co-working relationships; to understand and follow oral and/or written communication; to observe safety procedures.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent plus three (3) years of training and/or experience in the operation and maintenance of advanced, complex wastewater treatment facilities or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Must possess a NM Water Systems Level II or Wastewater Systems Level II certification.

Santa Fe County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
It is the policy of Santa Fe County to ensure equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of race, color, age, physical or mental handicap, sex, national origin, ancestry, religion, serious medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or political affiliation.
Santa Fe County is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package to eligible, full-time and part-time employees who work 20 hours per week. You will receive plan booklets, which give you more detailed information about each of these programs.
BENEFITS OFFERED
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
  • Voluntary Life and AD&D
  • Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Gym Membership
To learn more details, visit our website:
01
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you possess a NM Water Systems Level II or Wastewater Systems Level II certification?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have a minimum of three (3) years of training and/or experience in the operation and maintenance of advanced, complex wastewater treatment facilities or an equivalent combination of education and experience?
  • Yes
  • 3 or more years of experience.

Required Question

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