1

Wastewater Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Wastewater Plant Operator

Bloomington, IN · On-site

$23.01 - $26.93/hr

Current class I (or apprentice) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification, preferred. Otherwise, ability to obtain the certification within one year from hire, required. Ability to gain ...

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to ...

New

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to ...

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to ...

New

Director EHS

Kokomo, IN · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Class "C" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator; Certified Haz Waste Operator; Certified Training ISO 14001; The following are referred: Certified Training Indiana Air Quality, Certified Training RCRA ...

Class "C" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator; Certified Haz Waste Operator; Certified Training ISO 14001; The following are p referred: Certified Training Indiana Air Quality, Certified Training ...

Showing results 21-40

Wastewater Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$14

$24

$37

How much do wastewater operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in Indiana is $24.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $27.45 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 Indiana?

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

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

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

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Wastewater Operator jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Wastewater Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,026 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

$23.01 - $26.93/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description Continuously monitors mechanical and electromechanical equipment, pumps, gauges, valves, meters, etc, used in the treatment of wastewaters. Duties This job description is illustrative only and is not a comprehensive listing of all job functions performed. The following are essential duties for this position, performed with or without reasonable accommodation: Primary Collects multiple samples of untreated wastewater throughout the treatment process on a daily basis.

Takes samples to the lab for testing and analysis. Checks supernatant and transfers sludge by pumping to appropriate tanks. Operates and adjusts pumps to ensure proper entry of chemicals into tanks and that settings and proper functioning occurs.

Reads and records meter readings and prepares daily reports as assigned, makes appropriate adjustments in processing, and records any adjustments as required. Checks waste pump timers to make sure sludge withdrawals are pumped in correct volumes to sludge holding (digester) tanks. Checks operations at headworks area and raw sewage pump station and informs maintenance of any problems.

Performs analyses on water samples including dissolved oxygen test, and suspended and settable solids, pH, chlorine, and dechlorination residual. Maintains operations dissolved oxygen and pH measuring equipment. Enters operational data into computer.

Monitors all equipment and notifies Maintenance Coordinator and Plant Superintendent of any mechanical problems. Operates Belt Filter Press, including pumping sludge to belt press, mixing polymer solution to sludge, making appropriate adjustments to assure proper flow, moving truck and dumping sludge within the sludge barn. Secondary Performs general housekeeping/janitorial duties as needed.

Performs related duties as assigned. Job Requirements Experience working with equipment and machinery, especially pumps, preferred. Experience working outdoors in all sorts of weather and in settings with potentially hazardous conditions, preferred.

Current class I (or apprentice) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification, preferred. Otherwise, ability to obtain the certification within one year from hire, required. Ability to gain knowledge about wastewater treatment, all plant operations and equipment, and basic chemical testing of water quality.

Knowledge and understanding of the NPDES permit system and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations concerning plant operations and water quality. Ability to interpret and compile statistical data pertaining to plant operations. Ability to respond to emergency situations and interruption of normal treatment processes.

Difficulty of Work and Personal Work Relationship Difficulty of Work Moderate physical effort is exerted by incumbent in the set up and operation of equipment, including bending, stooping, and movement of extremities necessary to handle equipment controls. Moderate physical effort is frequently required for regular intervals of time. Walking up and down multiple flights of stairs, along with walking several miles per shift.

Working 12 hour shifts and lifting up to 25 pounds on a regular basis. Performs majority of duties out of doors in all sorts of weather conditions and in settings with potentially hazardous conditions. Exposed to inadequate lighting and other hazards such as poisonous and explosive gases, and diseases associated with the handling of wastewater.

An Equal Opportunity Employer, La Egualdad De Oportunidades De Empleo Es La Ley. The City of Bloomington does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. The City of Bloomington validates authorization to work using E-Verify, which provides the Social Security Administration and the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's I-9 form to confirm work authorization.