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Wastewater Operator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Wastewater Operator

Millsboro, DE

$19 - $26.25/hr

Wastewater Operator LOCATION: Millsboro, Delaware SALARY: $68,120 to $83,200 Bonus Eligible - Yes Overtime Eligible - Yes Relocation Assistance Available Interview Travel Reimbursed - Yes INDUSTRY:

Wastewater Operator

Millsboro, DE ยท On-site

$68K - $83K/yr

Wastewater Operator LOCATION: Millsboro, Delaware SALARY: $68,120 to $83,200 Bonus Eligible - Yes Overtime Eligible - Yes Relocation Assistance Available Interview Travel Reimbursed - Yes INDUSTRY:

Wastewater Operator

Lewes, DE ยท On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

JOB FUNCTION/PURPOSE The Wastewater Operator I is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in wastewater treatment facilities. A Wastewater license would be beneficial but not required ...

Wastewater Operator

Millsboro, DE ยท On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Thompson First Group is seeking an Wastewater Operator for a direct hire role with a local client in Millsboro, DE Primary Purpose A Wastewater Level A Operator understands most of the overall ...

Wastewater Operator

Millsboro, DE ยท On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

A Wastewater Level A Operator understands most of the overall operations; should be able to rebuild all pumps/equipment. Will have a Level III WW License and have at least two years acting in a ...

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Wastewater Operator information

See Delaware salary details

$15

$25

$38

How much do wastewater operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in Delaware is $25.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $28.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wastewater operator?

Wastewater operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining the systems and equipment that treat municipal or industrial wastewater. They monitor, operate, and adjust controls to ensure that water treatment processes comply with environmental regulations and public health standards. Their duties include inspecting equipment, collecting water samples, conducting tests, and keeping detailed records. Wastewater operators play a crucial role in protecting water resources and ensuring clean, safe water for communities.

What are some common challenges wastewater operators face during routine plant operations?

Wastewater Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, responding to unexpected system alarms, and ensuring compliance with strict environmental regulations. Adapting to changes in influent flow or composition, especially during storms or industrial discharges, can require quick problem-solving and teamwork. Operators must also stay current with evolving technologies and safety practices, making ongoing training an important part of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wastewater operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wastewater Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, chemistry, and safety regulations, usually supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and mechanical maintenance tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help operators manage complex systems and respond to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe and efficient treatment of wastewater, protecting public health and the environment.

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

AspectWastewater OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWastewater Treatment CertificationWater Treatment Certification
Work EnvironmentWastewater treatment facilities, sewer systemsWater treatment plants, drinking water facilities
Industry UsageMunicipal and industrial wastewater managementMunicipal and industrial water supply
Job FocusManaging wastewater processing and dischargeManaging drinking water quality and distribution

While both roles involve water management and require similar certifications, Wastewater Operators focus on treating and managing wastewater, whereas Water Treatment Plant Operators handle potable water production. Both are essential in water industry operations and often work in similar environments, but their specific responsibilities differ based on the type of water they manage.

How much do wastewater operators make in the US?

Wastewater operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, with experienced operators and those holding certifications earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, level of experience, and the complexity of the treatment facilities they work in.

Is wastewater operator a hard job?

Wastewater operators perform essential tasks such as monitoring treatment processes, maintaining equipment, and ensuring environmental compliance, which can involve physical labor and technical skills. The job often requires working in confined spaces, handling chemicals, and obtaining certifications, making it moderately challenging but manageable with proper training. Overall, it demands attention to safety and detail but is not considered excessively difficult for those with relevant skills and training.

What are the requirements to be a wastewater operator?

Wastewater operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must obtain relevant state certification or licensing, which involves passing exams that test knowledge of wastewater treatment processes and safety procedures. Some positions require prior experience or technical training, and operators often need to be physically capable of working in various environmental conditions and handling equipment. Continuing education is also common to maintain certification and stay updated on regulations.

Where do wastewater operators make the most money?

Wastewater 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. Factors like experience, certifications, and the size of the facility also influence earning potential, with operators in larger or more complex treatment plants generally earning more.

What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater Operator jobs in Delaware?

The most popular types of Wastewater Operator jobs in Delaware are:

What are popular job titles related to Wastewater Operator jobs in Delaware?

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

What job categories do people searching Wastewater Operator jobs in Delaware look for?

The top searched job categories for Wastewater Operator jobs in Delaware are:

What cities in Delaware are hiring for Wastewater Operator jobs?

Cities in Delaware with the most Wastewater Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,670 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Wastewater Level C Operator

Purple Cow Recruiting

Millsboro, DE โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description:

Wastewater Level C Operator | Millsboro, DE
Full-Time | On-Site | Wastewater Treatment Operations
Elizabeth Banzhaf, LPN
Co-Founder & COO | Heartline Staffing
Call or Text: 272-230-3157
LinkedIn: View Elizabeth's LinkedIn
Prefer a quick conversation? Call or text Elizabeth directly.
Heartline Staffing, in partnership with Purple Cow Recruiting, is seeking a Wastewater Level C Operator for a full-time, on-site opportunity in Millsboro, Delaware. This is an entry-level wastewater operations position for a candidate with at least one year of acceptable operating experience and a Level I Wastewater Operator License, or a candidate who is actively progressing toward certification and may be considered at management discretion.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Wastewater Level C Operator works primarily under supervision and assists with the safe and compliant operation of the facility's wastewater treatment system. Responsibilities include treatment-system operations, process-control laboratory work, compliance recordkeeping, wastewater equipment maintenance, and adherence to established environmental and workplace safety procedures.
This position is well suited for an early-career wastewater professional who has already gained hands-on operating experience and is prepared to continue developing technical knowledge and operational responsibility within a treatment environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assist with supervised operation of the wastewater treatment system
• Monitor wastewater treatment processes and system performance
• Perform process-control laboratory work
• Assist with sampling, testing, and recording process-control information
• Assist with compliance recordkeeping and required operational documentation
• Perform routine maintenance of wastewater treatment equipment
• Inspect equipment and assist with basic troubleshooting and repairs
• Work with pumps, valves, chemical-feed systems, and other wastewater treatment equipment as assigned
• Follow established process and operational procedures
• Adhere to all safety requirements and required PPE standards
• Follow Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures
• Follow applicable Process Safety Management practices
• Identify and report unsafe acts or conditions
• Maintain accurate operating, laboratory, maintenance, and compliance records
• Work cooperatively with wastewater operations and facility personnel
WASTEWATER OPERATIONS EXPERIENCE
Relevant experience may include wastewater operations within:
• Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facilities
• Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants
• Water Treatment Facilities
• Food-Processing Wastewater Operations
• Private On-Site Treatment Facilities
IMPORTANT LICENSING INFORMATION
Candidates should hold an active Level I Wastewater Operator License. Candidates who are scheduled for or actively progressing toward the required certification may also be considered at management discretion. Continued employment may be conditional upon successfully passing the required certification examination.

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent REQUIRED
• Minimum 1 Year of Acceptable Wastewater / Water Treatment Operating Experience REQUIRED
• Level I Wastewater Operator License or Acceptable Pending / Scheduled Certification Status REQUIRED
• Hands-On Wastewater Treatment System Operating Experience REQUIRED
• Process-Control Laboratory Experience REQUIRED
• Compliance Recordkeeping Experience REQUIRED
• Wastewater Equipment Maintenance Experience REQUIRED
• Knowledge of PPE and Workplace Safety Requirements REQUIRED
• Knowledge of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures REQUIRED
• Ability to Follow Process Safety Requirements REQUIRED
• Ability to Work Full-Time On-Site in Millsboro, DE REQUIRED
• Experience with Pumps, Valves, Chemical-Feed Systems, Clarifiers, Blowers, or Related Wastewater Equipment Preferred
• Experience with Wastewater Sampling and Routine Process-Control Testing Preferred
• Industrial or Food-Processing Wastewater Experience Preferred
• Municipal Wastewater Treatment Experience Considered
LICENSE NOTE: An active Level I Wastewater Operator License is preferred. Candidates who are scheduled to complete the certification process or have a documented path toward the required credential may be considered at management discretion.
IMPORTANT: This is an on-site wastewater operations position. Candidates must have actual hands-on wastewater or water-treatment operating experience; general manufacturing experience without treatment-system operations does not satisfy the core experience requirement.
Not ready to apply? If you have wastewater treatment experience and would prefer to discuss the opportunity first, call or text Elizabeth directly at 272-230-3157.