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Wastewater Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Nature of Work Wastewater Operator Apprentice - $18.80 per hour This is an entry-level class in the Wastewater Operator series. The purpose of the class is to operate and maintain water/wastewater ...

Wastewater Operator

Leesburg, FL · On-site

$25.72/hr

N/A Nature of Work Wastewater Operator Apprentice - $18.80 per hour This is an entry-level class in the Wastewater Operator series. The purpose of the class is to operate and maintain water ...

The Wastewater Operator regularly participates in the daily operations and maintenance of 2 Wastewater Treatment Facilities as directed by the Project Manager and Chief Operator. If you enjoy working ...

Wastewater Operator

Winter Springs, FL · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Woodard & Curran also reimburse employees in earning, upgrading, and keeping their licenses and certifications within the industry. ​ The Wastewater Operator regularly participates in the daily ...

Wastewater Operator

Winter Springs, FL · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

The Wastewater Operator regularly participates in the daily operations and maintenance of 2 Wastewater Treatment Facilities as directed by the Project Manager and Chief Operator. If you enjoy working ...

Wastewater Operator C

Eustis, FL · On-site

$20.87/hr

Class "C" Water Treatment Operator's License (Water Dept.); or Class "C" Wastewater Treatment Operator's License (Wastewater Dept.) issued by the State of Florida; supplemented by one (1) year ...

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Wastewater Operator information

See Florida salary details

$11

$19

$29

How much do wastewater operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in Florida is $19.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.54 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 Florida?

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Wastewater Operator jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Wastewater Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,073 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

$22.87 - $33.48/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Nature of Work Wastewater Operator Apprentice - $18.80 per hour This is an entry-level class in the Wastewater Operator series. The purpose of the class is to operate and maintain water/wastewater treatment equipment. The class is responsible for monitoring wastewater treatment processes, adjusting chemical or physical processes, maintaining logs and records, and general plant and systems maintenance

General work is observed and reviewed during performance and upon completion. Changes in procedures or exceptions to rules are explained in detail as they arise. The class works according to set procedures under direct supervision.

Wastewater Operator C - $21.14 per hour The purpose of the class is to operate and maintain wastewater treatment plant according to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) issued permits and report abnormal events. The class is responsible for monitoring wastewater treatment processes, adjusting chemical or physical processes, maintaining logs and records, and general plant and systems maintenance. The class works according to some procedures; decides how and when to do things under general supervision

Maintain compliance using experience and best management practices. Wastewater Operator B - $22.87 per hour The purpose of the class is to operate and maintain wastewater treatment plant according to the FDEP issued permits and report abnormal events. The class is responsible for monitoring wastewater treatment processes, adjusting chemical or physical processes, maintaining logs and records, and general plant and systems maintenance

The class works according to some procedures; decides how and when to do things under general supervision. Mentor and assist in training of lesser experienced Operations staff. Maintain compliance using experience and best management practices.

Wastewater Operator A - $25.72 per hour The purpose of the class is to operate and maintain wastewater treatment plant according to the FDEP issued permits and report abnormal events. The class is responsible for monitoring wastewater treatment processes, adjusting chemical or physical processes, maintaining logs and records, and general plant and systems maintenance. The class works according to some procedures; decides how and when to do things under general supervision

Maintain compliance using experience and best management practices. Essential Job Functions Wastewater Operator Apprentice Monitors water/wastewater treatment processes including operation of chemical and physical processes. Monitor and operates SCADA control system.

Calibrates equipment and measures and records parameters. Dispatch service crews as required and coordinate job effort utilizing city radio system. Adjusts chemical or physical processes to standards based on measurements and indications.

Generate daily operational reports. Performs maintenance on water/wastewater treatment systems and plant equipment; assists with or performs general cleanup of each facility. Responds to complaints from public; resolves issues or refers to supervisor for resolution.

Monitor chemicals and other supplies as necessary to ensure adequate levels. Maintains logs and records as required. Performs routine office or plant tasks, such as typing, filing, faxing, phoning, copying, and maintaining logs and records.

Wastewater Operator C Monitors wastewater treatment processes including operation of chemical and physical processes. Monitor and operates SCADA control systems. Calibrates equipment, measures and records specific parameters.

Dispatch Service crews as required and coordinates job effort utilizing city radio system. Adjusts chemical or physical processes to standards based on measurements and indications. Generates daily operational reports.

Performs maintenance on wastewater treatment systems and plant equipment. Keeps plant facility clean and orderly. Responds to complaints from public; resolves issues or refers to supervisor for resolution.

Orders chemicals or other supplies as necessary. Maintains logs and records as required. Performs routine office or plant tasks, such as typing, filing, faxing, phoning, copying, and maintaining logs and records.

Wastewater Operator B Monitors wastewater treatment processes including operation of chemical and physical processes. Monitor and operates SCADA control systems. Calibrates equipment, measures and records specific parameters.

Dispatch Service crews as required and coordinates job effort utilizing city radio system. Adjusts chemical or physical processes to standards based on measurements and indications. Generates daily operational reports.

Performs maintenance on wastewater treatment systems and plant equipment; assists with or performs general cleanup of plant. Responds to complaints from public; resolves issues or refers to supervisor for resolution. Orders chemicals or other supplies as necessary.

Maintains logs and records as required. Performs routine office or plant tasks, such as typing, filing, faxing, phoning, copying, and maintaining logs and records. Wastewater Operator A Monitors wastewater treatment processes including operation of chemical and physical processes.

Monitor and operates SCADA control systems. Calibrates equipment, measures and records specific parameters. Dispatch Service crews as required and coordinates job effort utilizing city radio system.

Adjusts chemical or physical processes to standards based on measurements and indications. Generates daily operational reports. Performs maintenance on wastewater treatment systems and plant equipment; assists with or performs general clean-up of plant.

Responds to complaints from public; resolves issues or refers to supervisor for resolution. Orders chemicals or other supplies as necessary. Maintains logs and records as required.

Performs routine office or plant tasks, such as typing, filing, faxing, phoning, copying, and maintaining logs and records. Minimum Requirements Wastewater Operator Apprentice Requires a high school diploma or GED. Weekend, holiday and afterhours work may be required, as well as after-hours response and emergencies.

Requires a valid State of Florida driver license and satisfactory driving record as a condition of initial and continued employment. Class A CDL with air brake endorsement preferred but not required for employment. Must obtain a state FDEP "C" license in wastewater plant operations within two years from date of hire.

Special skills or equipment certification may be required. The levels below require a high school diploma, GED, and formal training, special courses, or self-educated equivalent to satisfying completion of one year of college educated or specialized advanced training in the Wastewater field. Must live within a 20-mile radius of the city limits of Leesburg within six (6) months of employment due to on-call rotation requirement.

May mentor and assist in training of less experienced operations staff. Maintain compliance using experience and best management practices. Must possess a valid Florida driver's license and satisfactory driving record as a condition of initial and continued employment.

Wastewater Operator C Requires 2080 hours of experience in wastewater treatment. Must possess a valid FDEP "C" license in Wastewater Plant Operations. Special skills or equipment certification may be required.

Wastewater Operator B Requires 6240 hours of experience in wastewater treatment. Must possess a valid FDEP "B" license in Wastewater. Special skills or equipment certification may be required.

Wastewater Operator A Requires 10,400 hours of experience in wastewater treatment. Must possess a valid FDEP "A" license in Wastewater. Special skills or equipment certification may be required.