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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 Jul 31, 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, and why are they important?

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.
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Wastewater Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% 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 I

City of Johnson City

Johnson City, TN • On-site

$19.76/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee is currently accepting applications for a Wastewater Plant Operator I with Water & Sewer Services at the Brush Creek WWTP. The employee performs responsible semiskilled work in a trainee capacity on an assigned shift; performs routine tasks in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant; does related work as required. This is routine but responsible plant operation work. An employee in this class is responsible for the constant operation and maintenance of the continuously operating processes his shift. The work is performed in accordance with procedures outlined by a Wastewater Plant Operator II, III, or Chief Wastewater Plant Operator to whom unusual or emergency problems are referred. Employees whose positions are in this class are not required to be licensed; however, they are expected to have the ability to obtain a Grade IV Wastewater Plant Operator's Certificate issued by the State of Tennessee before becoming eligible for promotion to Wastewater Plant Operator II.
Essential Functions of Position:
  • makes regular inspections of plant and equipment to ascertain that it is in proper operation at all times;
  • collects and stores samples;
  • controls the transfer of the volume of sewage from settling tanks to digester;
  • skims scum and grease from settling tanks;
  • replaces chlorine and sodium bisulfite pump tubing and regulates the flow of chlorine and sodium bisulfite;
  • continually checks the disinfection system to ensure proper operation;
  • starts, stops and makes minor repairs to pumps, motors and equipment;
  • reads meters, gauges and dials, and keeps logs of readings;
  • reports needs for major equipment repairs;
  • assists Utility Maintenance Mechanics on major repairs and overhauls;
  • performs D.O., pH, and related laboratory operational tests;
  • cleans and performs routine maintenance tasks on buildings and grounds;
  • Loads sludge trucks with dewatered sludge cake;
  • keeps records and makes reports;
  • occasionally substitutes for a Wastewater Plant Operator II in his absence;
  • Interacts with septage haulers including inspecting tank volumes and signing tickets;
  • Participates in the lone worker remote monitoring program;
  • Monitoring plant and pump station alarms through SCADA or field observations and reporting issues in a timely manner;
  • performs related tasks as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Some knowledge of modern wastewater treatment plant operating practices; mechanical ability; ability to inspect plant machinery in operation and to detect flaws; ability to keep records and make reports; mechanical aptitude. Dexterity to operate machinery. Ability to operate and troubleshoot dewatering equipment independently after training has completed. Ability to learn proper operation of new equipment.
Acceptable Experience and Training: Graduate of a recognized high school or its equivalent and some experience in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant; or any combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform in this position. Pre-employment physical, drug screening and background check required.
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