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Wastewater Collection System Operator Jobs in Oregon

Engineer 1 - Wastewater

OR · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Position Description This position focuses on wastewater collection system improvement projects and provides engineering support from initial planning through design, construction, and project ...

Position Description This position focuses on wastewater collection system improvement projects and provides engineering support from initial planning through design, construction, and project ...

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Wastewater Collection System Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$15

$29

$47

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 Oregon is $29.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $35.58 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.
What are popular job titles related to Wastewater Collection System Operator jobs in Oregon? For Wastewater Collection System Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wastewater Collection System Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Wastewater Collection System Operator jobs in Oregon are:
Infographic showing various Wastewater Collection System Operator job openings in Oregon as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,042 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Senior - Principal Engineer - Wastewater Collection System Planning

West Yost

Lake Oswego, OR

$101K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Who We Are:

West Yost is a water resource management and engineering firm focused exclusively on water. Since our founding in 1990, we have partnered with public agencies including cities, counties, utilities, and water districts to plan, design, and deliver water, wastewater, and stormwater solutions that support safe, reliable, and resilient communities.

Our team of more than 260 professionals brings together expertise in groundwater, water supply, treatment, infrastructure, recycled water, stormwater, construction management, and operations technology. We support projects from early planning and permitting through design and construction and complement our engineering services with program management and public outreach to help clients move work forward and engage their communities.

We are proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work®, and to be recognized among Fortune’s® Best Workplaces in Consulting and Professional Services from 2023 to 2025, as well as a top-ranked firm in the AEC Advisors Diversity Index. At West Yost, we are committed to being the water firm of choice for our clients and our team, advancing water resources for future generations through strong partnerships, practical solutions, and a shared commitment to quality.

Compensation range: $101,325 to $180,915.  Based on our Davis, CA office location. (West Yost uses geographic salary differentials that would apply for candidates in other regions). 

LOCATION:  Can sit in any of our CA or OR office locations -  (https://www.westyost.com/locations/ ).

This is a Hybrid role with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote.

Senior - Principal Engineer - Wastewater Collection System Planning

The Senior - Principal Engineer role will contribute to the development of the firm’s Water Business Sector (which encompasses water system, water resource, recycled water, and collection system planning). Previous experience with Wastewater Collection System Planning/Hydraulic Modeling is required, including master planning, infiltration and inflow analysis, flow monitoring, risk assessments, alternatives analysis and development of capital improvement plans. Candidates with a desire to develop their career toward technical leadership, client service management, and/or regional/sector management are ideal.

Key Responsibilities & Functions:

  • Serving as a technical leader in wastewater collection system hydraulic evaluations utilizing a variety of commercial hydraulic modeling software programs (e.g., Infoworks ICM, AquaTwin Sewer, SewerGems,  etc.).
  • Working as part of a team on projects throughout California and Oregon.
  • Analyzing various types of flow, demand, population, water quality, and facilities condition data.
  • Assessing collection system regulatory compliance.
  • Developing wastewater collection system capital improvement programs.
  • Preparing technical reports and master plans.
  • Training and mentoring staff on wastewater collection evaluation and assessments.
  • Serving as a project manager directing the hydraulic modeling and master planning work of senior level, as well as other staff engineers.
  • Providing QA/QC review on the work of others in the wastewater collection system planning team.
  • Interacting directly with clients and providing excellent client service.
  • Assisting with marketing activities and proposal development when needed.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering.
  • 8+ years of experience with Wastewater Collection System Planning and Hydraulic Modeling.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience with CAD, GIS, Microsoft Access, and hydraulic modeling software (e.g., InfoWater Pro).
  • PE licensure in the State of California. PE licensure in other states in which the firm is actively practicing may also be considered. 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Ability to process accurate engineering calculations unaided and prepare reports.
  • Proven ability to summarize technical information using appropriate grammar, punctuation and spelling for concise reader-friendliness and clarity.
  • Experience with direct client interaction and proposal writing
  • High proficiency with InfoWater PRO; experience with Aquanuity software
  • Maintaining professional competency may require attending education classes and seminars, reading professional publications, and attending professional society meetings.
  • This position may require out-of-office travel with occasional evening and overnight assignments.

Travel Requirements:
This position may require travel to other offices and/or client offices.

A Little About the West Yost Life:

You will experience many opportunities to grow and develop professionally with your colleagues through collaborative in-person work experience, knowledge sharing, and mentorship opportunities. We also offer hybrid and flexible work schedules to our employees to help promote and encourage a healthy work/life balance.  All of our team members have access to local and company-wide events, our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Workgroup, Culture Workgroup, Wellness Workgroup, book clubs, charitable giving and community service, firm-wide resources, peer groups (young professionals & middlers group), and mentorship and leadership programs.  We support and foster your career success and encourage you to be in control of your future with us.

At West Yost, we make space for connection across the firm. Each month, we hold an all-hands meeting that bring together team members from every location, including those working remotely, to stay aligned and engaged. Individual sectors and teams also hold their own monthly meeting. At the local level, our offices host gatherings, from camping trips and river rafting to community events and celebrations.

Once a year, we come together in person for our Annual All Staff event, a firmwide experience focused on learning, networking, and building relationships across teams. That evening, we continue our longest-standing tradition, the Duck Dinner, where West Yosters are encouraged to bring a guest and enjoy a night of great food, connection, and entertainment.

We work hard, and we place equal value on having fun.

Our commitment to quality begins with our hiring practices. We employ the most talented team members in our industry from all backgrounds. We are highly selective of the individuals we choose to represent the firm, seeking only those individuals whose technical abilities and commitment to client service matches our vision for excellence.  We are dedicated to our number one asset, our employees.  Because we are employee-owned, we are responsible for and rewarded by our own success. Come to West Yost where, with our support, you’ll do the best work of your life.

Standard Benefits:

We provide a comprehensive array of valuable benefits to protect your health, your family, and your way of life. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health saving accounts (with West Yost contribution), paid vacation, paid sick leave and holidays, two employee assistance programs, travel assistance program, 401(k) profit sharing with employer match, leaves of absence with additional supplemental paid time off, parental leave, life and AD&D insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, and even pet insurance.

Other Unique Benefits:

You’ll be provided with support in on-going education through our 529 college savings plan/student loan repayment program, tuition reimbursement, paid professional memberships, paid training, and Leadership Academy programs. You’ll be recognized for your contributions at West Yost through milestone anniversary benefits, peer to peer recognition programs, the potential for employee stock ownership, annual monetary and paid time off bonuses, performance-based bonus eligibility, merit increase eligibility, and employee referral bonuses. We also offer a wellness reimbursement.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.