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$44

How much do wastewater collection system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater collection system operator in the United States is $28.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Wastewater Collection System Operator do?

A Wastewater Collection System Operator is responsible for the maintenance, inspection, and repair of the sewer systems that transport wastewater from homes and businesses to treatment facilities. They monitor the flow of wastewater, clear blockages, repair leaks, and ensure that the system operates efficiently to prevent environmental contamination. These operators also perform routine inspections, keep detailed records, and sometimes respond to emergencies like sewage overflows.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Wastewater Collection System Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wastewater Collection System Operator, you need knowledge of wastewater collection systems, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with operators often required to obtain state certification or licensure. Familiarity with SCADA systems, sewer inspection cameras, and other monitoring tools is essential for daily operations and troubleshooting. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient system maintenance and protect public health and the environment.

What's the highest paying job in waste management?

In waste management, senior roles such as Waste Management Director or Environmental Services Manager tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions typically require extensive experience, certifications, and leadership skills, and may involve overseeing multiple facilities or programs.

How much do wastewater operators make in the US?

Wastewater collection system operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, with experienced workers and those in certain regions earning higher. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and location, and operators often work in environments requiring technical skills and adherence to safety standards.

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

AspectWastewater Collection System OperatorWastewater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsMay require state-specific wastewater collection licensesOften requires wastewater treatment operator certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in sewer systems, manholes, and pipelinesPlant-based, working with treatment equipment and processes
Industry UsageUsed in municipal and industrial sewer systemsUsed in wastewater treatment facilities

While both roles involve working with wastewater, the Wastewater Collection System Operator focuses on maintaining and operating sewer collection systems, often outdoors and in the field. In contrast, the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator manages treatment processes within a facility. Both roles require specialized certifications and are essential in wastewater management, but they differ in work environment and specific responsibilities.

Are wastewater operators in demand?

Wastewater collection system operators are in demand due to ongoing infrastructure needs and environmental regulations. The job often requires technical skills, certifications, and the ability to work in various environmental conditions, contributing to steady employment opportunities in the field.

Where do wastewater operators make the most money?

Wastewater collection system 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. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the complexity of the systems they manage.

What are some common challenges faced by Wastewater Collection System Operators, and how are they typically addressed on the job?

Wastewater Collection System Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected blockages, responding to emergency overflows, and maintaining aging infrastructure. These situations require quick decision-making, effective teamwork, and sometimes working outside of regular hours. Operators address these challenges by following established safety protocols, using specialized equipment for repairs and maintenance, and maintaining clear communication with team members and supervisors. Continuous training and adherence to regulatory standards also help ensure the system runs smoothly and safely.
More about Wastewater Collection System Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Wastewater Collection System Operator jobs? Cities with the most Wastewater Collection System Operator job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Wastewater Collection System Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wastewater Collection System Operator jobs are:
Wastewater Collection System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Collection System Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,681 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

WASTEWATER COLLECTION SYSTEM OPERATOR

City of Columbia

Columbia, SC

$39K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description This position performs semi-skilled and unskilled construction, installation, maintenance and/or general repair work to support the operations of the City's wastewater collection system as required. The incumbent works within a general outline of work to be performed, and utilizing standard work methods and sequences under general supervision. The work is considered heavy in nature and involves walking, standing, climbing, balancing, stooping, crouching, crawling, kneeling, reaching, and lifting, pushing or raising objects, exerting between 20 to 50 pounds of force on a recurring basis and 50 to 100 pounds of force on a frequent basis.

The work requires the following physical abilities to perform the essential job functions: balancing, kneeling, pulling, pushing, talking, and visual acuity. Work environment may involve exposure to bright / dim light, extreme heat and/or cold, wet or humid conditions, dusts and pollen, extreme noise levels, vibration, fumes and/or noxious odors, traffic, moving machinery, electrical shock, confined spaces, disease/pathogens, toxic / caustic chemicals, dangerous gases; and involves heavy equipment and machinery that could result in bodily harm to co-workers or others. Essential Job Functions Assists with ensuring proper clean-up of work sites at project completion as directed; Performs general manual labor tasks associated with general repair work within the City's wastewater collection system; Assists with maintaining assigned vehicles and equipment; Repairs, rehabilitates or installs sewer lines, manholes, vortexes or other appurtenances pertaining to the wastewater collection system; May be required to work additional hours, holidays and weekends as needed in order to accomplish assigned work; Will be required to work on-call rotation; May be required to work different shift with 30-day notice; Attends meetings, training, seminars, etc., as appropriate to enhance job knowledge and skills; and Performs other related duties as assigned

Qualifications Minimum Qualifications to Perform Work: High school diploma or GED; No prior experience required for entry level trainee positions; Valid South Carolina Class "D" Driver's License; Must obtain DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical examiner's certificate within thirty (30) days from date of hire; Must possess or obtain a South Carolina Class "A" CDL license (with tanker endorsement) within the timeframe required in the CDL Program; Required to demonstrate competency and complete the minimum requirements for the Wastewater Collection System Operator Training Program within two (2) years from date of hire; Must possess or obtain Asbestos certification, A Frame certification, and Trench and Shoring certification within one (1) year from date of hire; Upon completion of probationary period and/or completion of the CDL Program, Trainees may optionally register for the Wastewater Collection System Operator Training Program; Pay grade will be dependent upon certification and work experience for applicants who possess Class "A, B, C or D" level of certification: Level Pay Grade Salary Range Trainee 107 $39,024.00 Operator Level "D" 108 $40,975.00 - $52,243.00 Operator Level "C" 109 $43,024.00 - $54,855.50 Operator Level "B" 110 $46,251.00 - $58,970.00 Operator Level "A" 111 $49,720.00 - $63,393.00 Training Requirements: Receives training and assists in cleaning, inspecting, installing, repairing and replacing pipes and appurtenances associated with standard operational and maintenance practices of wastewater collection system; and performs related duties as required. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of basic algebra involving variables and formulas and/or basic geometry involving plane and solid figures, circumferences, areas and volumes, and/or computing discounts and interest rates; Ability to gather, organize, analyze, examine or evaluate data or information and may prescribe action based on such data or information; Ability to speak or signal to people to convey or exchange information of a general nature; Ability to handle or use machines, tools or equipment requiring moderate instruction and experience, such as line locating devices; Ability to perform skilled work involving rules/systems with almost constant problem-solving; Ability to read technical instructions, procedures, manuals and charts to solve practical problems; composing routine reports and specialized reports, forms and business letters with proper format; speaking compound sentences using normal grammar and word form; Ability to perform clerical, manual or technical tasks prescribed by standard practices but which may require computation, the use of several procedures, and the use of independent judgments with obvious choices; requires normal attention for accurate results.

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