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Water Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Water Operator

Wellington, CO · On-site

$48K - $100K/yr

Northern Colorado Water Association Water Operator Job Listing Northern Colorado Water Association, a rural ground water system serving roughly 1500 taps in Northern Colorado, is seeking to hire a ...

Who We Are Nexus Water Group is a leading regulated water and wastewater utility serving more than 1.3 million people across 12 U.S. states and 2 Canadian provinces. "Nexus" means connection. Through ...

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

Lotus Water is seeking a mid-level design engineer, with 3-5 years of experience, to support our San Francisco office. Lotus is continuing to grow our Civil Engineering practice with design projects ...

Lotus Water is seeking a mid-level design engineer, with 3-5 years of experience, to support our San Francisco office. Lotus is continuing to grow our Civil Engineering practice with design projects ...

WATER RESOURCES ENGINEER II

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$93K - $127K/yr

DOE Lotus Water is seeking a mid-level design engineer, with 3-5 years of experience, to support our San Francisco office. Lotus is continuing to grow our Civil Engineering practice with design ...

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Water information

See salary details

$35K

$86.8K

$142.5K

How much do water jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for water in the United States is $86,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,500.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are water jobs?

Water jobs refer to a wide range of careers focused on the management, treatment, distribution, conservation, and protection of water resources. These jobs include roles such as water treatment plant operators, hydrologists, water quality scientists, engineers, and technicians who work to ensure safe and sustainable water supplies. Professionals in this field may work for government agencies, utilities, environmental organizations, or private companies, addressing challenges like water scarcity, pollution, and infrastructure maintenance. Water jobs are essential for public health, environmental protection, and economic development.

What Are Different Jobs in the Water Industry?

The water industry requires a variety of workers to perform the different duties and responsibilities necessary for water distribution and wastewater treatment. Wastewater treatment plant and system operators oversee the cleaning of water that has been used in domestic and industrial contexts. They remove pollutants from the water, treat it, and ensure it is piped to the sea, rivers, or other natural water sources, or sent to irrigation reservoirs. Then there are water treatment operators who inspect and treat freshwater before it is distributed to the public for consumption. There are also lab techs, civil engineers, and other specialists who help upkeep water delivery and sewer systems.

What is the difference between Water vs Plumber?

AspectWaterPlumber
Required CredentialsNone specific, basic knowledge of water systemsTrade license or certification, plumbing apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentWater treatment plants, distribution systems, industrial sitesResidential, commercial, industrial plumbing installations and repairs
Industry UsageInvolves managing water supply and qualityFocuses on installing and repairing plumbing systems

While 'Water' refers broadly to water systems and management, a 'Plumber' is a skilled tradesperson specializing in installing and repairing plumbing systems. Both roles are interconnected, but plumbers require specific certifications and work directly with water infrastructure in various settings.

What are some common challenges faced by water treatment plant operators on a daily basis?

Water treatment plant operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, maintaining strict regulatory compliance, and adapting to fluctuations in water quality due to weather or seasonal changes. They must work closely with maintenance staff and laboratory technicians to troubleshoot issues and ensure the safety and reliability of the water supply. Operators also need to stay updated on evolving technologies and best practices to optimize plant operations and meet environmental standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Treatment Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Treatment Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of water chemistry, mechanical systems, and environmental regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma and relevant state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and safety protocols is crucial for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for monitoring system performance and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe and efficient delivery of clean water, protect public health, and maintain regulatory compliance.
What cities are hiring for Water jobs? Cities with the most Water job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water jobs? The most popular types of Water jobs are:
What states have the most Water jobs? States with the most job openings for Water jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,796 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Water Operator

Northern Colorado Water Association

Wellington, CO • On-site

$48K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

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Job description

Northern Colorado Water Association

Water Operator Job Listing

Northern Colorado Water Association, a rural ground water system serving roughly 1500 taps in Northern Colorado, is seeking to hire a motivated individual to join the NCWA team; an experienced water operator is desired but onsite training will be offered for entry level candidates.  This is a full-time, benefited position with healthcare; dental and vision coverage, HSA contribution, annual retirement payment and both sick and vacation time program. Available to hire immediately.

General Purpose

Properly operate, maintain and inspect Northern Colorado Water Association water supply (groundwater) and distribution system including meter reading system.

Must be willing to perform or assist in needed repairs, maintenance and cleaning of NCWA facilities, grounds, vehicles and equipment/devices used for daily operation. A variety of skilled and labor tasks in relation to mechanical, construction, and maintenance of system.

Ability to assist in night/weekend emergency calls to provide repairs throughout system is required. A rotation will be established. When on call you must have the ability to respond to calls within 45 mins of receiving the call or emergency.

Duties/Responsibilities

·         Operate and maintain the supply and distribution system.

·         Daily system checks-including all pump stations, well sites and water storage tanks.

·         Weekly inspection and monitoring at water supply and throughout distribution system ensuring compliance with CDPHE.

·         Monitoring and maintaining all pumps and equipment in well houses and pump stations.

·         Monitor static and pumping aquifer levels.

·         Monitor and record chlorine residual weekly and maintain and order required chemicals for disinfection.

·         Monitor and maintain PRV vaults. Work with contractor for any repairs or improvements.

·         Confined space entry and training.

·         Participate in collection of all required water quality compliance samples.

·         Work with management, engineering and contractors to review all system repairs (planned/emergency) as well as system upgrades and improvements.

·         Participate in good relations with consecutive connections in distribution system.

·         Work with management and contractors for all required permitting and locate requests.

·         Ensure all locate requests are completed in timely manner and protection of infrastructure.

·         Maintain and monitor all hydrants and valves in distribution system including valve exercising, hydrant flushing and hydrant painting.

·         Monitor tank inspections and routine tank cleaning schedule.

·         Maintain and repair mechanical equipment for proper operation.

·         Maintain company vehicles, NCWA office facilities and grounds.

·         Work with management regarding source water protection plan, augmentation plan and other related water rights tasks.

·         Trouble shoot and repair system controls and equipment.

·         Attend board meetings monthly - used to communicate and keep BOD apprised.

·         Acquire and maintain required certifications to operate the system.

·         On call responsibilities- rotate for 24/7 coverage.

·         Must have functional computer skills and good organizational skills.

Preferred Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

·         Ability to conduct all required water quality compliance testing and inspections and aptitude for continued education/training regarding chemical and microbiological analyses on drinking water.

·         Ability to learn, if not already skilled in equipment operation for water supply system, distribution system, safety procedures and facility maintenance.

·         Ability to operate a range of sophisticated analytical instruments ensuring property operation of system.

·         Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, construction and welding experience is highly desired.

·         Ability to work independently when needed as well as with other employees and management cooperatively.

·         Knowledge of State of Colorado and Federal Regulations in relation to drinking water.

·         Knowledge of water quality laboratory operations and chemistry is desired but not required.

Education/Formal Training/Experience

·         A Class C Water Treatment License and Class II Distribution License are required to operate system. Having these licenses at time of application is desired but not required. NCWA will offer on-site training and preparation time to begin to acquire necessary testing with respect to CCWP testing requirements. Class D Water treatment and Class I Distribution licenses must be obtained within 6 months of employment with motivation to continue testing until required levels are met.

·         Minimum of 1 year’s experience in water treatment or water distribution is preferred but not required.

·         Possession of valid Driver’s License is required.

Hiring Range

Water System Operator Trainee (no licensing) - $48,000-$50,000 annual salary with incentive of 5% pay increase for each additional license obtained.

Water System Operator Class I Distribution/Class D Treatment - $56,000-$60,000 annual salary depending on experience level with incentive of 5% pay increase for each additional license obtained.

Water System Operator Class II Distribution/Class C Treatment - $60,000-$85,000 depending on experience level with discussion of pay increase annually.