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Wastewater Operator I Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SUMMARY Under the supervision of the Wastewater Superintendent and at times the Wastewater Foreman, the Waste Water System Operator I is responsible for daily operation, maintenance, repair ...

Posted today

Wastewater Operator I/II/III

Beloit, WI ยท On-site

$23.77 - $35.88/hr

Qualifications MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Wastewater Operator I 1. High School Diploma or equivalent 2. A valid driver's license and satisfactory driving record is required. 3. Class A Commercial Driver ...

Wastewater Operator I

Pasadena, TX ยท On-site

$19.75 - $27.50/hr

JOB FUNCTION/PURPOSE The Wastewater Operator I is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in wastewater treatment facilities. RESPONSIBILITIES * Operates a variety of equipment ...

Wastewater Operator I

Downingtown, PA ยท On-site

$22.50 - $31/hr

JOB FUNCTION/PURPOSE The Wastewater Operator I is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in wastewater treatment facilities. Shift is 12 hour shift, 7-7 Rotating Bi-Weekly Days and ...

Wastewater Operator I

Edmond, OK ยท On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

The Operator I is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in water or wastewater treatment facilities. The schedule will be Sunday through Wednesday, 7:30pm-6:00am. Responsibilities

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Wastewater Operator I information

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$15

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$38

How much do wastewater operator i jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator i 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 are some common challenges faced by Wastewater Operator I professionals during their shift?

As a Wastewater Operator I, you may frequently encounter challenges such as responding to unexpected equipment malfunctions, handling fluctuating flow rates, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Troubleshooting issues with pumps, valves, or chemical dosing systems often requires quick thinking and collaboration with maintenance teams. Additionally, maintaining accurate records and monitoring water quality parameters throughout your shift is essential, requiring attention to detail and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. Working in this role offers valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to learn from senior operators, which can support career advancement.

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

To thrive as a Wastewater Operator I, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, lab testing equipment, and safety procedures is important for daily operations. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient treatment operations and regulatory compliance, protecting public health and the environment.

What does a Wastewater Operator I do?

A Wastewater Operator I is responsible for monitoring and maintaining equipment at wastewater treatment facilities to ensure proper treatment of water before it is released back into the environment. Their duties include collecting samples, performing routine inspections, recording data, and assisting with basic repairs and maintenance tasks. They help ensure compliance with environmental regulations and contribute to protecting public health and local ecosystems.

What is the difference between Wastewater Operator I vs Wastewater Technician?

AspectWastewater Operator IWastewater Technician
CertificationsTypically requires a state wastewater operator license or certificationMay require similar certifications, often overlapping with operator licenses
Work EnvironmentOperates and maintains wastewater treatment equipment, often outdoors or in treatment plantsAssists with equipment operation, sampling, and maintenance, often in similar settings
Job DutiesMonitoring treatment processes, performing tests, and ensuring complianceSupporting operational tasks, data collection, and minor maintenance

Wastewater Operator I and Wastewater Technician roles share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on maintaining wastewater treatment systems. The main difference lies in scope: Wastewater Operator I typically has more responsibility for operational decision-making, while Wastewater Technicians often support technical tasks. Both roles are essential in ensuring efficient and compliant wastewater treatment.

More about Wastewater Operator I jobs
What cities are hiring for Wastewater Operator I jobs? Cities with the most Wastewater Operator I job openings:
What states have the most Wastewater Operator I jobs? States with the most job openings for Wastewater Operator I jobs include:
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator I job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,624 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Wastewater Operator I

City of Canyon TX

Canyon, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 hours ago

Posted today


Job description


SUMMARY


Under the supervision of the Wastewater Superintendent and at times the Wastewater Foreman, the Waste Water System Operator I is responsible for daily operation, maintenance, repair, expansion and modification of the wastewater treatment and collection facilities. A Wastewater Operator is responsible for completing assigned tasks necessary to the operation and maintenance of the Wastewater Treatment and Collection system.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS


โ€ขMust be able to work in the United States of America


โ€ขMust have a high school diploma or GED


โ€ขMust have a valid Texas Drivers License


โ€ขMust have a Class D TCEQ Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification within 6 months of hire


โ€ขMust have a Class C TCEQ Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification within 12 months of hire


โ€ขMust be able to work after hours or on weekends


โ€ขMust be able to work "on-call" when assigned


โ€ขMust be able to respond to calls within 20 minutes


โ€ขMust be able to attend training or conferences when needed. Some travel may be required

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES


To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.


1)Operation, maintenance, and repair of sanitary sewer main, wastewater treatment equipment and facilities including pump and motor maintenance, rodding and treating sewer lines and other general lift station operation and maintenance

2)Perform Effluent pH and BOD sampling and testing

3)Perform force main and air valve cleaning

4)Vehicle and equipment service and maintenance

5)Treatment and irrigation facility maintenance and monitoring, including piezometer and monitoring well readings, mowing and weeding, annual soil sampling, pump and motor maintenance

6) Perform all required on-call duties during the assigned one-week-per-month rotation, including 24-hour availability, responding to telemetry call-outs within 20 minutes, conducting required weekend and holiday equipment checks prior to 9:00 AM, and maintaining functional communication devices.

7) Be available for call-back when additional personnel needed, as stated in division call-back SOP.

8) Any other assigned tasks or duties as deemed necessary by the department supervisor.

9) Maintain knowledge of operator principles and certification

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge:


โ€ขShould have a basic understanding of Wastewater treatment and Collection systems.

โ€ขShould have basic mechanical and electrical knowledge.

โ€ขKnowledge of basic safety technics.

Skills:

โ€ขOperate heavy equipment such as; backhoes, excavators, potholers.

โ€ขBasic computer skills


โ€ขProblem solving

Abilities:


โ€ขA Wastewater Operator I must possess ability to perform basic calculations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). Basic geometry and algebra will be helpful, but not required.


โ€ขMust be able to logically analyze situations and make decisions based on experience, knowledge, and education that are beneficial to the City and to the customers. Upon completion of 6-month probationary period, they must also be able to recognize and respond to issues concerning public safety and health or health and safety of co-workers.


โ€ขAbility to read maps and blueprints.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS


The Wastewater Operator I works routinely with tools and power equipment to perform the essential functions of the job. The ability to stand, stoop, bend, reach, push, pull, and crouch are often required for this position. The position requires the ability to lift at least 50 pounds. Considerable time walking or standing is routine. The City of Canyon will work with employees to provide reasonable accommodation, when requested.

WORK ENVIRONMENT


Majority of essential job functions will be performed with exposure to weather and the elements. Exposure to extreme weather is likely. Work in confined spaces is highly likely. Exposure to human waste is likely.
Employees are required to follow all safety guidelines and to utilize personal protective equipment.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.