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Wastewater Operator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Manager

Milford, DE

As a Wastewater Manager, you will oversee the operation of the wastewater treatment facility while ensuring full compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations. You will also ...

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Manager

Milford, DE · On-site

As a Wastewater Manager, you will oversee the operation of the wastewater treatment facility while ensuring full compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations. You will also ...

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Manager

Milford, DE · On-site

As a Wastewater Manager, you will oversee the operation of the wastewater treatment facility while ensuring full compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations. You will also ...

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All JobsWastewater Operator JobsWastewater Operator Jobs in Delaware

Wastewater Operator information

See Delaware salary details

$15

$25

$38

How much do wastewater operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 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:

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

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

Wastewater Operator jobs near you
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.

Assistant Wastewater & Environmental Manager

Wulf Talent Hunters

Harbeson, DE • On-site

$100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Harbeson, Delaware  ·  Full Time  ·  Exempt 

Clean water does not happen by accident. At a leading Delaware food production facility, a small crew of specialists makes sure every drop leaving the plant meets the highest standard, day and night, rain or shine. Now that crew needs a leader. 

If you know your way around a wastewater lab and you are ready to run a team instead of just running tests, this is your next move. 

The Role 

As Assistant Wastewater & Environmental Manager, you keep the science and the people moving together. You will run the lab, oversee testing on both the wastewater and potable water systems, train and schedule operators, and step in the moment something needs fixing, whether that is a piece of machinery or a process that is drifting off track. 

This is hands-on leadership. You will be in the plant, not parked behind a desk. 

What You Will Do 

  • Supervise, train, schedule, and evaluate wastewater operators at the plant 
  • Inspect equipment, machinery, and grounds, and call the shots on repairs or corrective action 
  • Run and interpret the plant's full sampling and testing program, including COD, phosphate, zinc, copper, pH, nitrite, ammonia, and alkalinity tests on treated and untreated water 
  • Keep sharp records and logs of every test and every shift 
  • Investigate complaints and respond fast when emergencies come up 
  • Estimate materials and supplies, manage schedules, and keep the whole operation on track 
  • Oversee contractors when they are on site 
  • Take on special projects and help shape goals for the department 
  • Everything else that comes with keeping a treatment plant running right 

What It Takes 

  • Level 4 Wastewater Certification is required to be considered 

  • 4+ years of hands-on experience in a Class III or higher wastewater facility, with at least two of those years in a Direct Responsible Charge role 

  • 2+ years supervising a wastewater team, with real results to show for it 

  • Ability to obtain a Base Level Water Operators License with Chemical Feed Endorsement 

  • Sharp communicator who can lead a room, solve problems on the fly, and stay calm under pressure 

  • Drinking water experience is a strong plus 

Schedule & Flexibility 

This is not a nine-to-five role. Water treatment does not clock out, and neither will you. You need to be available nights, weekends, and holidays whenever an emergency calls for it. Most days are steady and predictable. Some are not, and that is exactly where you come in. 

If you want a role where every day looks the same, this is not it. If you want to be the person people count on when it matters most, keep reading. 

Compensation 

Starting salary: $100,000, plus the stability of joining an essential employer that keeps Delaware's water and food supply running clean. 

Work Environment 

You will be on your feet across a working production plant, moving between the lab and the grounds. Expect a mix of odors, hot and cold conditions, and wet environments. Safety gear is provided. You should be comfortable lifting 40 pounds or more and moving between satellite locations when needed. 

Ready? 

If you are ready to lead a team, protect a community's water supply, and take ownership of a role that matters, we want to hear from you.