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Wastewater Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Wastewater Plant Operator information

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$27K

$61.3K

$107K

How much do wastewater plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for wastewater plant operator in the United States is $61,312.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Wastewater Plant Operator vs Wastewater Treatment Technician?

AspectWastewater Plant OperatorWastewater Treatment Technician
CertificationsOperator Certification (state-specific)Operator Certification (state-specific)
Work EnvironmentPlant facilities, control rooms, outdoorLaboratory, plant site, outdoor
Job FocusOperating equipment, monitoring systemsTesting, maintaining, and troubleshooting equipment
Employer & IndustryMunicipal and industrial wastewater facilitiesMunicipal and industrial wastewater facilities

Both Wastewater Plant Operators and Wastewater Treatment Technicians work in wastewater treatment facilities, often sharing certifications and work environments. Operators primarily focus on operating and monitoring plant equipment, while Technicians handle testing, maintenance, and troubleshooting. These roles are complementary, ensuring efficient wastewater treatment and compliance with regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by wastewater plant operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Wastewater Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment malfunctions, adapting to changing weather conditions that affect water flow, and ensuring compliance with strict environmental regulations. Addressing these challenges involves staying vigilant with routine maintenance, participating in ongoing training to keep up with new technologies and procedures, and maintaining clear communication with team members and supervisors. Being proactive and detail-oriented helps operators prevent small issues from becoming major problems, ensuring the facility operates efficiently and safely.

What does a wastewater plant operator do?

A Wastewater Plant Operator is responsible for managing and maintaining the systems and equipment that treat and clean wastewater before it is released back into the environment. Their duties include monitoring plant operations, performing routine maintenance, conducting tests to ensure water quality, and troubleshooting any issues that arise. They play a critical role in protecting public health and the environment by ensuring that wastewater is properly treated according to regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wastewater plant operator?

To thrive as a Wastewater Plant Operator, you need knowledge of water treatment processes, basic chemistry, and mechanical aptitude, typically supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, lab testing equipment, and maintenance tools is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong teamwork skills help operators respond effectively to issues and maintain compliance. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient wastewater treatment and protecting public health and the environment.
More about Wastewater Plant Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Wastewater Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Wastewater Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Wastewater Plant Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Wastewater Plant Operator jobs? The top employers for Wastewater Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Wastewater Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Wastewater Plant Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Wastewater Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,312 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Wastewater Plant Operator

City of Grand Junction, CO

Grand Junction, CO • On-site

$30.23 - $34.02/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


City Of Grand Junction rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 842 rated public administrative organizations


Job description


Wastewater Plant Operator
HIRING RANGE: $30.23 - $34.02 hourly
About the Position:
The City of Grand Junction is seeking a skilled and responsible Wastewater Plant Operator to join our team and play a crucial role in the operation and maintenance of our wastewater treatment facility. The Wastewater Plant Operator will be responsible for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing the various processes within the plant to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and the efficient treatment of wastewater. This position requires a strong understanding of wastewater treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to environmental protection. Joining our team as a Wastewater Plant Operator offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation and public health.
About the City of Grand Junction Wastewater Services Division:
The City of Grand Junction Wastewater Division provides wastewater collection services for about 30,000 customers. Our system ensures the safe and efficient transport of wastewater from homes and businesses to treatment facilities, helping protect public health and the environment. The Wastewater Division has a staff of dedicated employees working together in areas such as Collections Operations, Lift Station Maintenance, System Inspection, and Customer Service in order to provide excellent service to our community. Our employees are responsible for monitoring and maintaining hundreds of miles of sewer line, numerous lift stations, thousands of manholes, and the infrastructure necessary to support the City's wastewater collection system.
What You'll Do:
  • Perform all mechanical and biological processes throughout the wastewater treatment plant to maintain effluent quality within State and Federal standards and guidelines.
  • Observe and control the operation of the activated sludge process, anaerobic and aerobic digesters, chlorination, and flow equalization.
  • Observe and control preliminary treatment including bar screens, grit removal, and raw sewage lift stations.
  • Monitor the sludge processing unit including sludge pumping, centrifuges, and polymer usage.
  • Collect representative samples of wastewater, sludge, and other solids and liquids for laboratory analysis.
  • Participate in the interpretation of control tests and lab results to determine if plant is operating correctly and effectively.
  • Mix, load, and unload chemicals used in the treatment process including ferric chloride, and polymers.
  • Observe and control the operation of the activated sludge process, anaerobic and aerobic digesters, chlorination, and flow equalization.

To view the full job description, click HERE .
This position is a safety-sensitive position, which means you will be subject to random drug screens due to the nature of the work performed.
What We're Looking For:
  • Three (3) years of prior experience working in a laboratory, drinking water, wastewater or similar environmental field.
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D. supplemented by specialized training in wastewater treatment, biology, chemistry, or a related field.
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Colorado driver's license.
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain within five (5) years of hire, a valid Class A Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by the State of Colorado, depending upon certification level at time of hire.
    • Proposed certification schedule:
      • Currently have no certification: 5 years from date of hire.
      • Currently have class D: 4 years from date of hire.
      • Currently have class C: 3 years from date of hire.
      • Currently have class B: 2 years from date of hire.

Other combinations of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.
Notice to Applicants:
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, we kindly request that you do not include the dates of your education to include years of attendance or graduation on your application, resume or attachments.
City Employee Health Clinic:
The City is committed to supporting the health and well-being of employees and their families. Our near-site Sage Health & Wellness Center offers free or low-cost healthcare services for employees and dependents enrolled in a City health plan. Services include preventive care, health assessments and coaching, treatment for common illnesses, lab services, physical therapy, a medical massage therapist, and behavioral health counseling. The clinic also offers wellness programs, challenges, and classes that empower employees and their families to stay healthy and thrive.
Explore the Area:
Grand Junction, Colorado, is the key access point to the mountains and canyonlands of western Colorado and eastern Utah. Centrally located between Denver, CO (250 miles east) and Salt Lake City, UT (270 miles west), Grand Junction was named for the convergence of the Gunnison River and Colorado River. Over 1.5 million acres of public lands connect the area's alpine terrain with the dramatic high desert, nourished by powerful rivers that sustain the vibrant agriculture industry. Opportunities for outdoor adventures are abundant in every season due to the year-round temperate climate. Home to "Nature's Trifecta," Grand Junction is surrounded by the Colorado National Monument - a mini-Grand Canyon, Rattlesnake Arches - the second-largest concentration of natural arches in the world, and the Grand Mesa - the largest flat-top mountain in the world. Agritourism, art and history, boutique shopping, and trendy restaurants complement the outdoor recreation scene. With a population over 160,000 in Mesa County (over 70,000 within the City limits), Grand Junction has all the city amenities you expect with a hometown atmosphere that is friendly and comfortable. See Visit Grand Junction for more information.
At the City of Grand Junction, we proudly operate as an Equal Opportunity Employer, purposely building an inclusive workforce representative of various cultures, perspectives, and experiences. We believe in respect for all and do not discriminate based on hair, race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
If you have any questions or need assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please contact our Human Resources office at 970.244.1512.
About Us
What We Offer:
We know that a healthy and happy workforce is a thriving workforce, which is why we offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports quality work-life harmony, including 32 days of paid annual leave to be used for personal and/or sick days, 11 paid holidays, health insurance options, employer-matched retirement, a City employee health clinic, a City employee child care center, wellness program, and an Employee Assistance Program. Of equal importance, we offer an opportunity to serve the community you love and live in. Our employees find their work rewarding and fulfilling, knowing that their day job makes a positive impact.
To view more information about our benefits visit: https://www.gjcity.org/333/Employee-Benefits
About the Team
The Utilities Department ensures reliable water and wastewater services to protect public health and the environment. The department is divided into Water Services-which manages water supply, treatment, distribution, irrigation, and utility billing-and Wastewater Services, which oversees collection, treatment, industrial pretreatment, and environmental laboratory functions. The department maintains critical infrastructure, including reservoirs, treatment plants, pipelines, meters, and fire hydrants, to provide high-quality drinking water and effective wastewater management.

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