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$11

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$53

How much do wastewater operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operations in the United States is $26.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Wastewater Operations, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in Wastewater Operations often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, fluctuating influent characteristics, and compliance with evolving environmental regulations. Effective management typically involves proactive maintenance schedules, ongoing training to stay current with technological advancements, and strong communication within the operations team. Collaboration with engineers, laboratory staff, and regulatory agencies is essential to address issues quickly and maintain safe, efficient plant performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Wastewater Operations, and why are they important?

To excel in Wastewater Operations, you need a solid understanding of environmental regulations, water treatment processes, and typically a relevant certification or wastewater operator license. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and maintenance tools is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure safe, compliant, and efficient wastewater management to protect public health and the environment.

What are wastewater operations?

Wastewater operations involve the management, treatment, and disposal of sewage and industrial wastewater to protect public health and the environment. Professionals in this field operate and maintain equipment at treatment plants to remove contaminants from water before it is released back into the environment or reused. They monitor water quality, ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and perform routine maintenance and repairs on treatment systems. Wastewater operators play a crucial role in preventing pollution and safeguarding water resources.

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

AspectWastewater OperationsWastewater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsOften requires state-specific wastewater operator licensesTypically requires a wastewater treatment operator license
Work EnvironmentIncludes treatment plants, pump stations, and fieldworkPrimarily in treatment plant facilities
Job FocusOverseeing overall plant operations, maintenance, and complianceOperating and monitoring treatment equipment and processes

Wastewater Operations and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator roles share certifications and work environments but differ in scope. Wastewater Operations often involves broader responsibilities, including management and oversight, while Treatment Plant Operators focus on operating equipment and ensuring process efficiency.

More about Wastewater Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Wastewater Operations jobs? Cities with the most Wastewater Operations job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater Operations jobs? The most popular types of Wastewater Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Wastewater Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Wastewater Operations jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Wastewater Operations jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wastewater Operations jobs are:
Wastewater Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operations job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 9% As Needed, 39% Full Time, and 48% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,588 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Wastewater Operations Supervisor

Wastewater Operations Supervisor

City of Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

$69K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Salary: $69,302.27 - $107,424.51 Annually
Location : 949 NW 38th Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, FL
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: FS032-02
Department: Utility Services
Opening Date: 05/06/2026
Closing Date: 6/11/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
POSITION SUMMARY
This is technical and administrative work of considerable difficulty directing, controlling, and supervising the City's regional wastewater treatment plant operators.
The employee in this class plans, directs, and manages the operational, and regulatory aspects of a water treatment plant. The employee may substitute for the Wastewater Facilities Manager when he/she is out of the office. The employee exercises initiative and independent judgment in developing and carrying out total operational programs, with work subject to review by an administrative supervisor.
This job classification is included within the bargaining unit represented by Federation of Public Employees and therefore is subject to the terms and conditions of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the City of Fort Lauderdale and Federation of Public Employees.
This is a Management Category III position which includes six (6) additional Management Vacation Days and a Vehicle Allowance of $250/month.
Please Note: This position shall remain open until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Essential functions are the basic job duties that an employee must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation. The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. The omission of a function does not preclude management from assigning essential duties not listed herein if such duties relate to the position.
  • Supervises the work of assigned staff; delegates and reviews work assignments; conducts performance evaluations
  • Directs, reviews, and participates in the daily operation and maintenance of the wastewater treatment facility
  • Recognizes deviations in plant processes or irregularities in plant operation; identifies sources, causes, and effects related to the performance of the facility
  • Reviews reports, logs, and laboratory analysis to determine efficiency of assigned shifts and to ensure required regulations and standards are met; maintains plant records; prepares monthly summary reports of operations
  • Recommends and implements new procedures; revises outdated procedures for plant operation and for emergency repairs
  • Assists in the preparation of the plant budget; makes recommendations for staffing requirements, equipment, and supplies
  • Conducts monthly safety meetings
  • Coordinates with other plant staff to execute unplanned and preventative maintenance and construction projects
  • Ensures compliance with safety regulations and standard operating procedures
  • Ensures compliance with Federal, State, and County regulatory requirements
  • Works around medium voltage, rotating equipment and various hazardous chemicals
  • Prepares, reviews and assists in monthly operating reports and budget reports regulatory reports, or any other required reports
  • Ensures accuracy of asset management data related to the wastewater treatment system
  • Performs necessary duties to foster and implement efforts in specialized activities such as Risk Management Plan (RMP), International Standards Organization (ISO), Effective Utility Management (EUM), etc.
  • Assists in interviewing candidates for employment and recommends in the interest of the City, that eligible applicants be hired and that subordinate employees be transfer, promoted, reassigned, disciplined or terminated; participates in the administration of collective bargaining agreements and in the adjustment of grievances
  • Performs related work as required

JOB REQUIREMENTS, PREFERENCES & WORK ENVIRONMENT
MINIMUM JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  1. Have successfully graduated from an accredited college or university with an associate or higher-level degree.
  2. Must possess at least five (5) years of experience in wastewater operations at a wastewater plant of at least five (5) MGD capacity which includes all of the following:
    • Treatment via cryogenic air separation or VPSA.
    • Activated sludge processing.
    • Chlorine disinfection.
    • Biosolids/sludge dewatering.
    • Deep well injection disposal of the effluent.
  3. Additional qualifying experience in a job-related field, may substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required education.
  4. Previous supervisory experience required.
  5. A valid Florida Class A Certified Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator License issued by the FDEP is required.
  6. Knowledge of Federal, State, and County regulations.
  7. Proficiency in Microsoft Suite preferred.
  8. Required to be available after hours, during weekends and holidays, including responding following an operational/emergency event.
  9. If claiming Veterans' Preference, you must attach a copy of the DD214 Member 4 form (or other supporting claim documents) to your on-line application.
As public servants, employees may be required to work immediately before, during, and/or after an emergency. All employees must be available and able to work assigned shifts as determined by their Department Heads.
PHYSICAL STANDARDS REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
The position involves light physical demands, such as exerting up to 20 lbs. of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 lbs. of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
HOW TO APPLY & SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Applicants who qualify will be subject to an extensive selection process and screening program, which may include, but not be limited to evaluation of training and experience; written test; interview; employment record, background check; medical examination; and drug screen. The expected duration of the selection process varies by position.
The City of Fort Lauderdale is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action, inclusive employer and a Drug Free Workplace. The City of Fort Lauderdale does not discriminate based on age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. Veterans' preference per Florida law.
For technical support with your on-line application, contact GovernmentJobs.com from 9 am to 9 pm EST, Monday to Friday, at (855) 524-5627 or email support@governmentjobs.com.
The City of Fort Lauderdale offers a comprehensive benefits package to all regular full-time employees including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and short-term disability insurance.
Click for an overview of employment information including our benefits package.
Say "Hello" to the City of Fort Lauderdale and Say "Goodbye" to Your Student Loan! Under the U.S. Department of Education's Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, the remaining balance on your student loan may be forgiven after you have made 120 qualifying monthly payments while working full-time at the City of Fort Lauderdale. Click for more information or to see if you qualify.
In addition to the competitive benefits package and salary, the City of Fort Lauderdale participates in the Florida Retirement System (FRS) which offers an investment option and a pension option and requires a 3% contribution from employees. All new City of Fort Lauderdale employees are automatically enrolled in FRS. Click to view additional information on the Florida Retirement System.
01
Have you graduated from a standard high school or possess an acceptable G.E.D. certificate from a recognized agency?
  • No
  • Yes

02
Have you successfully graduated from an accredited college or university with an associate or higher-level degree?
  • No
  • Yes

03
How many years of progressively responsible experience do you possess in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant of at least 5 MGD with activated sludge processing, treatment via cryogenic air separation or VPSA, chlorine disinfection, biosolids/sludge dewatering, and deep well injection disposal of the effluent.
  • Less than five (5) years of experience
  • Five (5) to six (6) years of experience
  • Seven (7) or more years of experience

04
Do you possess a valid Florida Class A Certified Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator License issued by the FDEP?
  • No
  • Yes

05
Do you possess previous supervisory experience?
  • No
  • Yes

06
Describe your prior supervisory experience managing licensed operators across multiple shifts. Please include the employer(s) and position(s) where you gained such experience. Do not state "see resume".
07
This position requires you to be available after hours, during weekends and holidays, including responding following an operational/emergency event. Are you willing and able to meet this requirement?
  • No
  • Yes

08
Do you possess knowledge of Federal, State, and County regulations applicable to this position?
  • No
  • Yes

09
Are you proficient in using Microsoft Suite.
  • No
  • Yes

10
Describe your prior work experience scheduling a workforce and multiple projects while competing for resources.
11
Describe your prior work experience communicating with regulatory agencies.
Required Question

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