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Valve Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Openwork

Valve Technician

Houston, TX

$20 - $24/hr

Troubleshoot performance issues with valve automation packages, leaks, or mechanical failures. * Assist warehouse operations when needed (receiving raw valves, operating forklifts, using jib cranes ...

Puffer-Sweiven

Valve Technician

Freeport, TX · On-site

Paints valve, fittings and other devices using spray gun. * Required to work at main facility ... Prior manual machine operating experience strongly preferred * Mechanical and Electrical experience ...

Ferguson

Valve Technician

New Castle, PA · On-site

$16.53 - $29.22/hr

Follow all established standard operating procedures for valve automation including maintaining a safe and organized workspace and observing necessary safety precautions during assembly, testing ...

New

Puffer Sweiven

Valve Technician

Freeport, TX

Paints valve, fittings and other devices using spray gun. * Required to work at main facility ... Prior manual machine operating experience strongly preferred * Mechanical and Electrical experience ...

SUPPLY.com

Valve Technician

Swedesboro, NJ · On-site

$23/hr

Follow all established standard operating procedures for valve automation including maintaining a safe and organized workspace and observing necessary safety precautions during assembly, testing ...

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Valve Operator information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do valve operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for valve operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a valve operator?

Valve Operators are skilled workers responsible for controlling the flow of liquids, gases, or other materials through pipelines and systems by opening and closing valves, either manually or remotely. They monitor gauges, meters, and control panels to ensure systems operate safely and efficiently. Valve Operators are often employed in industries like oil and gas, water treatment, manufacturing, and power generation, where precise flow control is essential for operations. Their duties may also include inspecting and maintaining equipment, responding to emergencies, and following strict safety protocols.

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

To thrive as a Valve Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and knowledge of industrial safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with SCADA systems, hand tools, and basic maintenance equipment is typically expected, and OSHA safety certification is advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and effective communication help Valve Operators excel in coordinating with teams and responding to operational issues. These skills are essential for ensuring the safe, efficient, and continuous flow of materials in manufacturing or processing environments.

What are some common challenges valve operators face during shift work and how can they manage them effectively?

Valve Operators often work rotating shifts, which can lead to fatigue and disrupted sleep patterns. Managing these challenges requires developing good sleep hygiene, staying hydrated, and maintaining clear communication with team members during shift handovers. Additionally, staying vigilant and following safety protocols is essential, as the role involves operating critical equipment that directly impacts plant operations. Building strong teamwork and staying organized helps Valve Operators respond efficiently to unexpected issues and maintain safe, smooth operations.

What is the difference between Valve Operator vs Pipefitter?

AspectValve OperatorPipefitter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; may require certifications in valve operation or safetyHigh school diploma; apprenticeship or technical training in pipefitting
Work EnvironmentFactories, plants, industrial facilities, often indoorsConstruction sites, industrial plants, often outdoors or in confined spaces
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, energy, water treatment industriesPrimarily in construction, oil & gas, and industrial piping projects
Job FocusOperating and controlling valves to regulate flowInstalling, repairing, and maintaining piping systems

While both roles are essential in industrial settings, Valve Operators focus on controlling flow through valves, often requiring specific certifications. Pipefitters, on the other hand, install and maintain piping systems, with more emphasis on physical installation and repair. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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What are popular job titles related to Valve Operator jobs?

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Valve Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Valve Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Hydrant & Valve Operator

Moncks Corner, SC • On-site

Berkeley County, SC
See more jobs at Berkeley County, SCexternal

$45K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Salary : $45,547.84 - $52,380.02 Annually
Location : Water and Sanitation Main Office, 212 Oakley Plantation Drive, Moncks Corner
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 01838
Department: BCWS Water Distribution
Opening Date: 08/31/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Summary and Essential Functions
This position typically provides installation and repair of pipes, conduits, meters, hydrants and fittings some which will require entry into confined spaces; and deals courteously and effectively with fellow employees and citizens.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
  • Performs preventative maintenance and repairs on fire hydrants, i.e. cleaning, painting, repair, replacement and/or lubrication of nozzles, caps, operating nuts, stems, gaskets, chains, etc.
  • Performs inspection and testing of fire hydrants to ensure proper operation and to itemize deficiencies as well as hydraulic testing to establish flow capabilities and locate flow deficiencies.
  • Collects pertinent hydrant data through office and field investigation to create a permanent record within the GIS database, i.e. hydrant number, manufacturer, model, connection, year, valve opening size, depth, location, etc.
  • Operates distribution and transmission valves to ensure proper position.
  • Prepares reports.
  • Locates valves and water mains in the field using electron detection equipment.
  • Follows up on deficiencies found to ensure repairs are made promptly and correctly.
  • Assists in solving customer complaints and problems as well as those reported by local fire departments.
  • Responds to customer water quality concerns.
  • Exercises fire hydrants.
  • Operates and maintains water quality and integrity throughout our water distribution system.
  • Performs routine testing of turbidity and chlorine residuals and identifies areas in need of correction.
  • May be required to work during emergency conditions.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements to Perform Work
  • High School diploma or equivalent;
  • Two (2) years of experience in pipe or maintenance construction;
  • Must have and maintain a valid driver's license for South Carolina with safe driving record;
Special Requirements:
  • Must be able to obtain a valid Class A CDL within nine (9) months of employment;
  • Must be able to obtain a Class D Water Distribution license within twenty-four (24) months of employment;
  • Serves "on-call" status on a rotating basis as well as after hours and weekends on an emergency basis.
  • Departmental testing may be administered during interview;
  • A criminal background check will be completed on selected applicant if a current one (less than 3 years old) is not on file.
  • This is a safety sensitive position and is subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
  • This position is considered emergency essential and will be required to report to work during any declared emergency situation.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of and the ability to use basic hand tools, materials and equipment commonly used in the performance of job function.
  • Knowledge of the use of pumps, compressors and other appropriate equipment.
  • Knowledge of pipefitting skills, of water taps and new water line construction practices.
  • Skill in using backhoes, mini excavators or track hoes.
  • Ability to operate a personal computer and/or keyboard for inputting information into the GIS Database and CMMS (Computer Maintenance Management System).
  • Ability to perform water quality testing in accordance with DHEC regulations.
  • Ability to operate utility vehicles, backhoes, mini excavators, and related equipment.
  • Ability to follow oral and written instructions, and be able to write legible and descriptive reports on duties performed.
  • Ability to work on emergency repairs and services unsupervised.
  • Ability to deal with the public to include handling potential difficult customers and volatile situations.
  • Ability to use or repair small and medium equipment and machinery.

Physical Demands
This position requires the employee to reach, pull and push with hands and arms; stand; use hands to handle, feel, finger, grasp or operate objects, tools or controls; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; use mental acuity and repetitive motion; and walk, talk and hear. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to ninety-five (95) pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
Work Conditions
The work is regularly performed in a safe and secure work environment that may periodically have unpredicted requirements or demands. Thirty-seven and one half (37.5) hours per week. Normal working hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. with the ability to work after hours when necessary. Scheduled hours/days, job location, duties and any other information contained herein is subject to change. May be required to work extra hours and to perform extra or different duties during emergency situations.
Berkeley County offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including:
  • Health, Life, and Dental Insurance
  • Optional Life and Disability Insurance
  • Optional Medical and Dependent Care Spending Accounts
  • Personal Leave
  • Twelve (12) Paid Holidays
  • South Carolina Retirement System (SCRS) State Retirement Plan
  • Police Officers Retirement System (PORS - as applicable)
  • Optional Deferred Compensation Program (i.e. 401K, 457)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Wellness Program

01
Do you have a valid High School diploma or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

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

03
Do you have at least two (2) years of related experience?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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