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Wastewater Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bonton Associates

Wastewater Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$29.50 - $35/hr

Position Overview The Wastewater Operator will independently perform a variety of complex tasks in the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater treatment plant, including equipment maintenance ...

Bonton Associates

Wastewater Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Position Overview The Wastewater Operator will independently perform a variety of complex tasks in the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater treatment plant, including equipment maintenance ...

Regional Utilities

Wastewater Operator

Santa Rosa Beach, FL

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

The Wastewater Plant Operator is responsible for introduction of chemicals into wastewater plant. Maintains class "A", "B" or "C" wastewater license. Reports directly to lead wastewater operator or ...

CAMBRIAN INNOVATION, LLC

Wastewater Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$20.75 - $28.75/hr

JOB SUMMARY The Water / Wastewater Operator III is an advanced journey‑level position responsible for leading the skilled operation and maintenance of water and/or wastewater treatment and related ...

Intermedia Group

Wastewater Operator

Millsboro, DE · 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:

Tidal Vision

Wastewater Operator

Avon Lake, OH · On-site

$80K - $900K/yr

Wastewater Operator DEPARTMENT: Cesco Solutions, a Tidal Vision Company REPORTS TO: Business Development Manager STATUS: Full-time, exempt LOCATION: Sandusky, OH SALARY: $80,000-$90,0000/year based ...

Intermedia Group, Inc.

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:

Aerotek

Wastewater Operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$64K/yr

Wastewater Operator A 2nd shift (2pm-10:30pm) Wastewater Operator is needed for a large manufacturing facility in Santa Ana, CA. This is a direct hire position with pay based on experience (open to ...

City of Katy

Wastewater Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

Wastewater Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dependable and motivated Wastewater Operator to join our Public Works - Wastewater team. This essential position is ...

City of High Point

Wastewater Operator I

Jamestown, NC

$21.94 - $28.11/hr

The Wastewater Operator I or II to performs skilled and technical work in the operation and maintenance of a computer-controlled wastewater treatment plant. Duties include monitoring and adjusting ...

Intermedia Group, Inc.

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:

Inframark

Wastewater Operator

Waycross, GA · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

We are looking for a licensed Wastewater Operator to join our team responsible for the operation of municipal wastewater treatment plants. This role involves hands-on operation and maintenance of ...

ES Integrated

Wastewater Operator

Sumter, SC

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Summary/Objective Sumter Solidification LLC dba ReIntegrated is seeking a Wastewater Operator to be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of wastewater treatment and non-hazardous waste ...

City of Katy

Wastewater Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

Wastewater Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dependable and motivated Wastewater Operator to join our Public Works - Wastewater team. This essential position is ...

Provost & Pritchard

Wastewater Operator

Hanford, CA · On-site

Salary: $26 - $32 Summary Join the Provost & Pritchard OMS team as a Wastewater Operator, proudly continuing the trusted Granger Water Specialties operations throughout the region. This hands-on ...

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Wastewater Operator information

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How much do wastewater operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are wastewater operators?

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.
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Wastewater Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 7% Temporary, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,624 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Wastewater Operator

Bonton Associates

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$29.50 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About Us
Bonton Associates is a civil engineering firm based in Louisiana with offices in Baton Rouge and Shreveport. We provide engineering, program management, and construction support services for public infrastructure and institutional clients across the state.
Position Overview
The Wastewater Operator will independently perform a variety of complex tasks in the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater treatment plant, including equipment maintenance, quality control/testing, and day-to-day activities during an assigned shift. This position requires advanced knowledge of equipment and tools, the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues, and a strong understanding of safety protocols. The role involves operating vehicles and machinery, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring the efficient functioning of the treatment plant.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate and maintain vehicles, tools, machinery, and equipment used in water and wastewater systems to control flow and processing of water/ wastewater, sludge, and effluent under minimal supervision.
  • Observes variations in operating conditions and interprets meter and gauge readings.
  • Operates valves and gates either manually or by remote control.
  • Starts and stops pumps, engines, and generators to control and adjust flow and treatment processes.
  • Independently troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve operational and maintenance issues promptly.
  • Monitor and adjust plant processes to ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
  • Conduct inspections of systems, structures, and equipment to identify and prevent potential issues.
  • Maintain detailed records of operations, maintenance, and materials used.
  • Prepare reports, collect samples, perform laboratory testing, determine proper chemical flow rates, and maintain shift logs.
  • Establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with those contacted during the course of work.
  • Follow and enforce all safety procedures and company protocols.
  • Makes operating decisions in the absence of supervisory personnel.
  • Understands and carries out oral and written directions.
  • Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications
Minimum
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid Driver's licence with an acceptable MVR.
  • Familiarity with the principles and practices of water/wastewater treatment plant operations; operating principles of valves, pumps, and motors; principles and methods of bacteriological and chemical sewage analyses; effects and problems of industrial waste in water/wastewater treatment processes; safe work practices.
  • Strong knowledge of operating and maintaining vehicles, tools, and machinery used in wastewater treatment systems.
  • Ability to perform as an Operator-In-Training.

Preferred
  • Class 1 Wastewater Certification through the State of Louisiana.
  • 1+ years of experience working in a water/wastewater treatment plant.

This position is part of a structured operator progression pathway. Advancement from Operator I to Operator II and Operator III is based on the successful completion of the corresponding Louisiana wastewater operator certification levels, demonstrated operational competency, reliability, safety performance, and the ability to perform tasks appropriate to the next tier independently. Operators are expected to actively pursue the next level of certification within a reasonable timeframe and participate in ongoing training to support increasing responsibilities. Promotion decisions will be based on certification status, job performance, and supervisory recommendations.
Operator I
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience operating in water/wastewater systems or treatment plants.
  • Class I Wastewater Certification through the State of Louisiana.

Operator II
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience operating in water/wastewater systems or treatment plants.
  • Class II Wastewater Certification through the State of Louisiana.

Operator III
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience operating in water/wastewater systems or treatment plants.
  • Class III Wastewater Certification through the State of Louisiana.

Key Competencies
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Excellent oral and written communication abilities.
  • Advanced understanding of water and wastewater system operations.
  • Ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure.
  • Team leadership and mentoring capabilities.
  • Attention to detail, organizational skills, and time management.
  • High stress tolerance and a strong safety-first mindset.

Work Environment
  • Safety is a core value at Bonton Associates. We are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all employees. This position will spend a substantial amount of time performing safety-sensitive labor or services. Due to the nature of the job, passing a Fitness for Duty test is required to ensure candidates for this position are physically and functionally fit to perform the essential physical work functions of this safety-sensitive position without posing a direct threat to the health or safety of themselves or others.
  • The physical and environmental demands required to perform the essential duties of this position include standing, walking, sitting, coordination, balance, and agility demands, which may include the ability to stoop, kneel, squat, grasp, reach, and perform repetitive hand movements. Additional demands may involve a specific level of dexterity, grip strength, climbing, and cardiorespiratory demands. The work areas may be indoor, outdoor, have loud noise, active machinery, high-pressure fluid systems, electrical equipment, confined spaces, heights and depths, fumes, airborne particles, noxious gases, and chemicals. The use of appropriate safety equipment will be mandatory in these areas to prevent hazardous contact.

Physical Requirements
  • Normal, corrective vision range; ability to see color and to distinguish letters, numbers, and symbols.
  • Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, bend, and reach for long periods of time in a treatment plant setting.
  • Ability to reach with hands and arms.
  • Occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds.
  • Ability to work a rotating schedule, including some nights and weekends, and willingness to work overtime as needed (overtime is not guaranteed).

Compensation & Benefits
• Pay Range: $29.50/Hour - $35.00/Hour (Based on Experience)
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability
• Retirement plan with employer match
• Paid time off
Other Duties
This job description is not all-inclusive of all job duties. Job duties and responsibilities may be assigned that are not mentioned above at any time based upon the demands of the Company. Essential functions and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific duties/requirements assigned to the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
At Bonton Associates, we know our best work happens when our team reflects the diverse communities we serve. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We are dedicated to building an inclusive culture and strongly encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.

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