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Wastewater Collection Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wastewater Operator

Parkston, SD · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

The City of Parkston is accepting applications for part-time water and wastewater operator. Duties ... Must have Wastewater Treatment 1 & 2, Wastewater Collection 1 & 2 and Water Distribution I Wage ...

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This position performs various skilled duties related to inspecting, maintaining, and repairing the District's wastewater collection system. Maintains and services wastewater lift stations by ...

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Wastewater Collection Operator information

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$15

$25

$38

How much do wastewater collection operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater collection operator in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a wastewater collection operator do?

A Wastewater Collection Operator is responsible for maintaining and operating the systems that collect and transport wastewater from homes and businesses to treatment plants. Their duties include inspecting pipelines, pumps, and related equipment to ensure proper operation, detecting and repairing leaks or blockages, and keeping detailed records of system performance. They play a vital role in protecting public health and the environment by ensuring wastewater is safely managed and transported for treatment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wastewater collection operator?

To thrive as a Wastewater Collection Operator, you need a solid understanding of wastewater systems, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, GIS mapping tools, and specialized inspection and maintenance equipment is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators respond swiftly to issues and collaborate with teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of wastewater infrastructure, protecting public health and the environment.

What are some common challenges faced by wastewater collection operators, and how can they be managed?

Wastewater Collection Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, blockages in sewer lines, and the need to respond quickly to emergency overflows or spills. Managing these issues requires strong problem-solving skills, familiarity with safety protocols, and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. Regular maintenance, keeping up with training, and clear communication with supervisors and other departments are essential practices to minimize downtime and ensure public health and environmental safety.

What is the difference between Wastewater Collection Operator vs Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWastewater Collection OperatorWastewater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsState-specific wastewater collection licensesState-specific wastewater treatment licenses
Work EnvironmentManholes, pipelines, underground systemsTreatment plant facilities, control rooms
Job FocusMaintaining and repairing sewer linesOperating treatment equipment and ensuring water quality
Industry UsageMunicipal water utilities, public worksMunicipal water treatment facilities, environmental agencies

While both roles involve working with wastewater systems, Wastewater Collection Operators focus on maintaining sewer lines and underground infrastructure, whereas Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators manage treatment processes at water facilities. Both require specialized licenses and are essential for public health and environmental protection.

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What cities are hiring for Wastewater Collection Operator jobs?

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What states have the most Wastewater Collection Operator jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Wastewater Collection Operator jobs?

For Wastewater Collection Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Wastewater Collection Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,624 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

*CURRENT SAWS EMPLOYEES ONLY* Superintendent (DCOPS) Dead-End Mains

San Antonio, TX • On-site

San Antonio Water System
Utilities • 1 - 5K employees

$79K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


San Antonio Water System rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Grade 21: Starting annual salary: $79,373.00. Rate of pay depends on qualifications. Job Description JOB SUMMARY The Superintendent is a position that performs work in the field

This position is a working position and is the first level supervisory representative for various work crews in the field. The Superintendent is responsible for managing the financial, physical, and human resources within Engineering & Construction and Distribution & Collection Operations in accordance with all safety guidelines. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Routinely conducts work in the system as part of Engineering & Construction and Distribution & Collection Operations.

Supervises, selects, develops, trains, evaluates and makes recommendations for corrective action up to and including termination. Forecasts,allocates,andmonitorsthehuman,physicalandfinancialresourcesfortheassigned area. Plans, monitors, reviews, and reports field activities for construction of new system infrastructure and rehabilitation of system infrastructure covering a wide logistical area.

Develops, evaluates, and implements plans during normal and crisis situations to ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulatory statutes. Reads, reviews, and recommends changes to construction plans, blueprints, block maps, schematics and as-built drawings. Conducts safety training, trains and mentors' employees on safety and technical aspects of the job to include risk management planning associated with applicable chemical use and handling.

Provides training and guidance to crews by assigning and checking work and develops standard operating procedures that optimize system performance. Performsvariousutilitycalculationsandconductsadvancedlevelprocesscontrol analysis. Supports and implements various special projects.

Performs other duties as assigned. DECISION MAKING The Superintendent works under limited supervision/guidance. Directly supervises assigned staff.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Associate's Degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Management, Construction Management, Science, Public Administration or related field from an institution accredited by a recognized accrediting agency plus five years' progressive experience in construction, water, or wastewater including two years in a supervisory/lead role. TCEQ Class "C" Water Distribution Operator License and Class "III" Wastewater Collection Operator License within 24 months of hire. Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License.

OR High School Diploma/GED plus eight years' of progressive experience in construction, water, or wastewater including two years in a supervisory/lead role. TCEQ Class "C" Water Distribution Operator License and Class "III" Wastewater Collection Operator License within 24 months of hire. Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License.

JOB DIMENSIONS Proficient skill in the use of materials, tools, utility calculations and equipment commonly used in construction, maintenance, or repair of water distribution, wastewater treatment and collection systems. Skill in utilizing a personal computer and proficient in the use of word processing, spreadsheets, database, presentation, and computerized maintenance management system software. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with SAWS internal and external customers, vendors, and governmental agencies. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS This position is subject to standing, sitting, walking, climbing, bending, and kneeling to perform essential functions. Working conditions are in an office and field environment.

Field environment has frequent exposure to inclement weather; wastewater; mechanical, electrical, chemical and confined space hazards; offensive fumes; excessive noise; heavy traffic; deep excavations; and animals, snakes and poisonous insects. May be required to comply with requirements as specified in applicable regulations for personal protective equipment, including clearance for use of respiratory protection and other associated equipment. Operates a company vehicle on a daily basis.

May be required to work other than regular schedule such as days, nights, weekends, holidays and on- call. #LI-DNI


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