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Wastewater Treatment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stellantis

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Warren, MI

$44.51/hr

The starting hourly base pay rate $44.51 The Wastewater Treatment Operator must have a general knowledge of the operation, methods and procedures of a wastewater treatment plant including: Performing ...

Stellantis

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Warren, MI · On-site

$44.51/hr

The starting hourly base pay rate $44.51 The Wastewater Treatment Operator must have a general knowledge of the operation, methods and procedures of a wastewater treatment plant including: Performing ...

Clean Harbors

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Bristol, CT · On-site

$23/hr

The Wastewater Treatment Operator will be responsible for providing operations and maintenance of the wastewater systems using safe operating procedures. Shift: Monday-Friday 9am-7pm. OT and weekends ...

HR Synergy

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Milford, NH · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

The Town of Milford is seeking a skilled and motivated Wastewater Treatment Operator to join our Water Utilities Department. This role performs a variety of semi‑skilled and skilled duties related ...

King County

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Seattle, WA

$42.77 - $68/hr

About this Role Working under the direction of the Wastewater Treatment Operator - Senior In Charge, this position plays a key role in the operation, maintenance, and repair of pumps, conveyance ...

King County, WA

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$42.78 - $51.92/hr

About this Role Working under the direction of the Wastewater Treatment Operator - Senior In Charge, this position plays a key role in the operation, maintenance, and repair of pumps, conveyance ...

Abbott

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Casa Grande, AZ

$20.85/hr

Grade 2 Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificate Shift Rotating 4x10s Monday-Friday 0600-1630 & 0930-2000 & Saturday-Sunday 0600-1630. Subject to change depending on need In compliance with federal ...

Abbott

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Casa Grande, AZ

$20.85/hr

Grade 2 Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificate Shift Rotating 4x10s Monday-Friday 0600-1630 & 0930-2000 & Saturday-Sunday 0600-1630. Subject to change depending on need In compliance with federal ...

Inframark

Wastewater Treatment Operator

Edmond, OK · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

As a Wastewater Treatment Operator , you'll play a hands-on role in keeping water or wastewater treatment facilities operating safely and efficiently. Working alongside an experienced team, you'll ...

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Wastewater Treatment Operator information

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$14

$28

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How much do wastewater treatment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater treatment operator in the United States is $28.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the requirements to be a wastewater treatment operator?

Wastewater treatment operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must obtain relevant state certifications or licenses, which often require passing written exams and gaining on-the-job experience. Knowledge of water treatment processes, safety procedures, and the use of monitoring equipment is essential, and some positions may require specialized training or technical skills.

What is a wastewater treatment operator?

Wastewater Treatment Operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining the systems and equipment that treat and clean municipal or industrial wastewater. Their main duties include monitoring plant operations, adjusting chemical dosages, inspecting equipment, and ensuring treated water meets environmental and safety standards. They play a crucial role in protecting public health and the environment by ensuring that water released from treatment plants is safe and compliant with regulations.

How much do wastewater treatment operators make?

Wastewater treatment operators in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific facility. Entry-level operators may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What is the difference between Wastewater Treatment Operator vs Wastewater Collection Worker?

AspectWastewater Treatment OperatorWastewater Collection Worker
CertificationsOperator Certification, State LicensesCDL License, Wastewater Collection Certification
Work EnvironmentWastewater treatment plants, industrial facilitiesSewers, pipelines, manholes
Job FocusOperating treatment equipment, monitoring water qualityMaintaining sewer lines, inspecting pipelines

Wastewater Treatment Operators and Wastewater Collection Workers both work in the water industry, but their roles differ. Operators focus on managing treatment processes at plants, while Collection Workers handle sewer systems. Both roles require specialized certifications and are essential for maintaining public health and environmental standards.

What are some common challenges wastewater treatment operators face on the job and how are they typically addressed?

Wastewater Treatment Operators often encounter challenges such as unexpected equipment malfunctions, fluctuating influent water quality, and maintaining compliance with strict environmental regulations. These issues require quick problem-solving skills, routine maintenance checks, and close monitoring of system controls. Operators typically work as part of a team, collaborating with maintenance staff and supervisors to troubleshoot problems and implement improvements. Ongoing training and adherence to safety protocols are also essential in effectively managing these challenges and ensuring smooth plant operations.

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

To thrive as a Wastewater Treatment Operator, you need strong knowledge of water treatment processes, chemical handling, and an understanding of environmental regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and routine maintenance tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of treatment facilities, protecting public health and the environment.

Are wastewater treatment operators in demand?

Wastewater treatment operators are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for water quality management and environmental compliance. Employment opportunities are often available in municipal and industrial facilities, especially for those with certifications and technical skills in plant operation and maintenance.
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Wastewater Treatment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Treatment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,681 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Wastewater Treatment Operator

City of Fitchburg

Fitchburg, MA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary Under the supervision of a Senior Wastewater Treatment Operator and/or the Plant Superintendent, the Treatment Operator is assigned to rotating shifts and is responsible to perform operational procedures in an advanced wastewater treatment facility.
Full Job Description
Wastewater Treatment Operator WWTF 06 2026
Disclaimer The City of Fitchburg is an Equal Opportunity (EOE)/Affirmative Action (AA) Employer. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee. The responsibilities and duties listed below are illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar related or a logical assignment to the position. The job description is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change.
Advertisement The City of Fitchburg offers an excellent benefits package ~ City of Fitchburg contributory retirement plan 457 Deferred Compensation Plan health vision and dental plans plus generous vacation sick personal time and more!
Application Special Instructions To be considered for this position interested applicants must upload their resume and a cover letter for the position (addressed "Attn: Hiring Team").

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