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Wastewater Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Pacific Seafood

Wastewater Operator

Newport, OR · On-site

$18.20 - $22.39/hr

Wastewater Operator Department: Newport QA Employment Type: Full Time Location: Newport Reporting To: Marc Horton Compensation: $18.20 - $22.39 / hour Description At Pacific Seafood, we do more than ...

Pacific Seafood

Wastewater Operator

Newport, OR · On-site

$18.20 - $22.39/hr

As Wastewater Operator I, you will assist in the operation and maintenance of wastewater operations, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards. You will play a crucial ...

Pacific Seafood

$18.20 - $22.39/hr

As Wastewater Operator I, you will assist in the operation and maintenance of wastewater operations, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards. You will play a crucial ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Portland, OR · On-site

$23 - $31.75/hr

Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Slayden

Heavy Equipment Operator

Central Point, OR · On-site

... Heavy Equipment Operator (Track Excavator) to support a critical wastewater treatment plant ... Slayden is a leader in the construction industry, with a primary focus on water and wastewater ...

Solvenow Inc.

Operator-in-Training

Ontario, OR

Operate and maintain water and wastewater treatment plants, including their treatment systems and ... To assist the Operator II in maintaining the disposal area Buffer Zones, farm roads, and fences.

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Wastewater Operator information

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$16

$27

$41

How much do wastewater operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in Oregon is $27.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $30.48 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 Oregon?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Wastewater Operator jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Wastewater Operator job openings:

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

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

Wastewater Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,696 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Wastewater Operator

Pacific Seafood

Newport, OR • On-site

$18.20 - $22.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Pacific Seafood rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Wastewater Operator
Department: Newport QA
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Newport
Reporting To: Marc Horton
Compensation: $18.20 - $22.39 / hour
Description
At Pacific Seafood, we do more than just provide the world with the healthiest proteins on the planet. We are a family-owned, excellence-driven organization committed to being the brand of choice in the marketplace and the employer of choice in the community. We believe in servant leadership, investing in our team members' personal and professional growth, and rewarding performance. We live by the core values of our Diamond Philosophy: Teamwork, Productivity, Quality, and Excellence-which means consistently doing your best and always striving to do better.
Summary:
As Wastewater Operator I, you will assist in the operation and maintenance of wastewater operations, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards. You will play a crucial role in monitoring systems, conducting tests, and supporting senior operators in maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of our treatment processes.
Key Responsibilities
1. Regulatory Compliance, Wastewater Operation, and Monitoring:
  • Assist in the daily operations of wastewater operations, including monitoring equipment and processes
  • Perform routine tests and analyses on wastewater samples to ensure compliance with regulatory standards
  • Mix, add, and maintain chemical addition systems and adjust as necessary to maintain operation within specified parameters
  • Assist with sanitation and cleaning and other projects to reduce and eliminate down time
  • Coordinate and facilitate inspections by regulatory agencies and customers
  • Maintain accurate logs, inspection records, and inventory of supplies
  • Record operational data and prepare reports for regulatory compliance
  • Be able to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on mechanical equipment, ensuring all systems function efficiently
  • Provide back-up support for other duties as needed

2. Safety Enforcement and Training:
  • Responsible for keeping equipment and surrounding area safe and clean
  • Work with maintenance department to fix equipment concerns in a timely manner
  • Participate in training sessions to enhance technical skills and knowledge of wastewater treatment processes
  • Respond to system alarms, equipment malfunctions, and emergency situation to maintain continuous plant operations
  • Learn and monitor all applicable environmental and occupational health and safety requirements to achieve 100% compliance and perform related duties

What you bring to Pacific Seafood
Required:
  • High School Diploma/GED equivalent
  • 1-2 years related experience

Preferred:
  • Prior seafood industry experience
  • Experience with the safe operation of forklifts and powered pallet jacks

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the team member:
  • Must be available to work variable shifts, including weekends and holidays.
  • Must be able to watch and react to changing situations, to ensure safety.
  • Ability to lift items weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to stand or walk for long periods.
  • Ability to use hands and fingers to carefully complete tasks and skillful actions, making sure to pay close attention to details and accuracy.
  • Ability to read a limited number of two and three-syllable words and recognize similarities and differences between words and between series of numbers.
  • Ability to print and speak simple sentences.
  • Ability to understand and carry out written or oral instructions.
  • Capable of working and communicating in loud environments, while focusing on tasks.
  • Capable of training in using specialized tools and equipment pertinent to operations.
  • Capable of solving simple math equations using units of American money and weight measurement, volume, and distance.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.
Working Conditions:
The working environment characteristics described here are representative of those a team member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the team member is exposed to:
  • Traditional warehouse and production facility environment
  • Large, specialized equipment
  • Large moving equipment
  • High noise level
  • Exposure to cold/freezing temperatures
  • Exposure to hazardous material
  • Wet environment
  • Safety equipment (hair nets, gloves, smock, etc.)
  • Well-illuminated environment
  • Scents related to the production facility

Benefits
Total compensation
At Pacific Seafood, your base wage is only a portion of your overall compensation package. We invest in our Team Members through a comprehensive and attractive total rewards package, including but not limited to:
  • Health insurance benefits options, including medical, prescription, vision, dental, basic group life and short-term disability.
  • Flexible spending accounts for health flex and dependent care expenses
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan options with generous annual company profit sharing match
  • Paid time off for all regular FT team members, to include sick days and vacation
  • Employee Assistance Program- Confidential professional counseling, financial, and legal assistance provided at no charge to Team Members and immediate family members
  • Product purchase program

Pacific Seafood is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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