1

Wastewater Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wastewater Plant Operator

Joplin, MO · On-site

$17.89 - $22.34/hr

Inspects, maintains, and operates a variety of equipment operated at the wastewater treatment plant. * Monitors plant Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems (SCADA) system. * Monitors plant ...

Wastewater Plant Operator I

Salina, KS · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

WASTEWATER PLANT OPERATOR I City of Salina, Kansas Utilities Department On the Job Video The Wastewater Plant Operator I position is pivotal to the efficient operation of Salina's utility systems ...

ASSIGNED TO THE CITY OF CONROE SOUTHWEST WASTEWATER PLANTJOB SUMMARYThe Wastewater Plant Operator performs duties in the operations, maintenance and repairs necessary at the wastewater treatment ...

Position Summary Under the direction of a Lead Wastewater Plant Operator(s), and/or Plant Supervisor (depending on the size and scope of the facility), the Wastewater Plant Operator II performs and ...

Position Summary Under the direction of a Lead Wastewater Plant Operator(s), and/or Plant Supervisor (depending on the size and scope of the facility), the Wastewater Plant Operator II performs and ...

Showing results 21-40

Wastewater Plant Operator information

See salary details

$27K

$61.3K

$107K

How much do wastewater plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 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 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.

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 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 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 37% Full Time, 61% 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 II-26707001

County of San Diego

San Diego, CA

$74K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


County Of San Luis Obispo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

386th of 857 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary Excellent Career Opportunity. Department of Public Works Wastewater Plant Operator II Interviews will take place on an ongoing basis. Reflecting our commitment to attracting and retaining top talent, all candidates hired for this position will be eligible to receive an annual base salary of $91,395.20 Future Salary Increases ** June 2027 - 4.66% increase to base pay (2.90% Across-the- Board + 1.76% Market Adjustment) Do you have the knowledge of wastewater treatment plants and water distribution systems

The County's Department of Public Works seeks your interest in an excellent career opportunity for Wastewater Plant Operator II. Our Operators use equipment and machinery such as: pumps, valves, electric motors, motor control centers, screening devices, flow meters, trickling filters, activated sludge process, aerobic digesters, sludge drying beds, effluent percolation beds, and spray irrigation systems to recognize unusual, inefficient, or dangerous operating conditions and take appropriate action. Wastewater Plant Operator II performs the following duties at the journey level: skilled operation and maintenance of rural wastewater plants, sewer conveyance systems, and water distribution systems, including pumping stations, wastewater treatment plants, and potable water distribution systems.

Please read the Wastewater Plant Operator II job description for more information. Hiring Process and Timeline: The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below. i.

Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews. Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening. ii.

Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results. iii. Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.

If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies. Minimum Qualifications Possession of a Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by the California Water Resources Control Board. NOTE: A copy of the Grade II certificate must be attached during Step 1 of the on-line application submittal process.

Blind Applicant Screening The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all new recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, will hide a candidate's personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision. Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race.

This process will help contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce. The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview. Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application.

Conditions of Employment As part of the County of San Diego's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position. Current County employees may be excluded from this process.

Evaluation The names of qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based upon scores received during the evaluation of information contained in their employment application and supplemental questionnaire. Accommodation Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job, on a case-by-case basis. As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development.

We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization. Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans.

Veteran's Preference Policy The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Please read the Veteran's Preference Policy for additional information. Military Skills Translator Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience.

This tool can help. Please go to the Military Skills Translator to access the tool. Strategic Plan The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all.

Our values include integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations. While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce.

Please see the Strategic Plan for more information. Disaster Service Worker Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers. The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district.

Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law. Diversity & Inclusion The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.


What County Of San Luis Obispo employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom