ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Department Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

City of Hillsboro, OR

Project Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site +1

$103K - $136K/yr

The Hillsboro Water Department operates at a metropolitan scale from a suburban environment, with responsibilities for local water distribution as well as for regional water supply and treatment ...

City of Albany, OR

Water Treatment Operator

Albany, OR · On-site

$27.18 - $34.59/hr

Albany, OR Job Type: Full-Time Non-Exempt Job Number: 00984 Department: Public Works Division ... Water Treatment Operator II: $29.12 - $37.11 * Water Treatment Operator III: $31.75 - $40.52 ...

City of Astoria

Water Operator

Astoria, OR · On-site

$23/hr

SUMMARY The Water Operator performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled duties in the operation, monitoring and maintenance of the City's water system including treatment, storage and distribution ...

City of Astoria

Water Operator

Astoria, OR · On-site

$23/hr

SUMMARYThe Water Operator performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled duties in the operation, monitoring and maintenance of the City's water system including treatment, storage and distribution ...

City of Astoria

Water Operator

Astoria, OR · On-site

SUMMARY The Water Operator performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled duties in the operation, monitoring and maintenance of the City's water system including treatment, storage and distribution ...

City of Albany

Water Treatment Operator

Albany, OR

$58K - $74K/yr

General Description The City of Albany's Public Works Department is currently seeking candidates to join our Water Treatment Team. In this role, you'll operate, monitor, and maintain equipment and ...

SERVPRO Team Landers

Water Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Respond to emergency water damage calls at residential and commercial properties Perform water extraction, drying, and dehumidification using specialized equipment Set up and monitor drying equipment ...

HighGround

Water Mitigation Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Water Mitigation Technician Kennedy Restoration, the premier restoration company in the Pacific NW is hiring a full-time Water Mitigation Technician. The Water Mitigation Technician is responsible ...

City of Bend

Water Services Director

Bend, OR · On-site

$156K - $199K/yr

The City of Bend's Water Services Department plays a vital role in protecting public health and ensuring reliable water services for the Bend community. The Water Services Director provides strategic ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Department JobsWater Department Jobs in Oregon

Water Department information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$23

$36

How much do water department jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for water department in Oregon is $24.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does the Water Department do?

The Water Department is responsible for providing clean and safe drinking water to residents and businesses, maintaining water infrastructure, and ensuring water quality meets regulatory standards. They manage water treatment plants, repair water main breaks, monitor water usage, and handle billing for water services. The department also implements water conservation programs and responds to customer inquiries about water service. Their work is essential for public health, environmental protection, and community well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Water Department position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Water Department role, you generally need knowledge of water systems, plumbing, and environmental regulations, often supported by relevant certifications or a background in utilities or engineering. Familiarity with SCADA systems, GIS mapping software, and water quality testing equipment is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for this position. These skills ensure the safe and efficient delivery of water services, regulatory compliance, and prompt resolution of system issues.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a Water Department, and how can these be managed?

Professionals in a Water Department often encounter challenges such as responding to emergency water main breaks, managing aging infrastructure, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental regulations. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, the ability to work well under pressure, and effective communication with both team members and the public. Staying current with training and best practices, as well as fostering a collaborative environment, helps teams manage these issues efficiently and provide reliable water services to the community.

What is the difference between Water Department vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater DepartmentWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsVaries; may include certifications in water systemsTypically requires a state certification/license in water treatment
Work EnvironmentMunicipal or public water systems, fieldwork, office tasksWater treatment facilities, plant operations, equipment monitoring
Industry UsagePublic utilities, municipal agenciesWater treatment facilities, public utilities
Common Search/ComparisonBroader role overseeing water servicesSpecific role focused on water treatment processes

The Water Department generally oversees water services and infrastructure, while a Water Treatment Plant Operator specifically manages the operation of water treatment facilities. Both roles are essential in ensuring safe and reliable water supply, often working closely within the same industry and requiring similar certifications.

What are popular job titles related to Water Department jobs in Oregon?

For Water Department jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Department jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Department jobs in Oregon are:

Water Department jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Department job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,915 per year, or $24 per hour.

Project Engineer

City of Hillsboro, OR

Hillsboro, OR • On-site, Remote

$103K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Salary: $103,372.00 - $136,030.00 Annually
Location : Civic Center, 150 E Main Street Hillsboro, OR 97123, OR
Job Type: Full Time
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2027-22
Department: Water
Opening Date: 08/20/2026
Closing Date: 9/20/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Project Engineer Salary Range: $ 103,372 - 136,030 88,363 - $116,279 annually
Engineer Associate Salary Range: $88,363 - $116,279 annually
Determination of job classification and placement on pay range based on relevant experience presented in application materials.
Application Deadline: 9/20/2026
About This Opportunity
The City of Hillsboro Water Department is currently seeking a Project Engineer to join their dynamic, collaborative team. The Hillsboro Water Department operates at a metropolitan scale from a suburban environment, with responsibilities for local water distribution as well as for regional water supply and treatment providing drinking water to over 400,000 people. The Water Department is working on a $520 million 10-year capital improvement program. This is an excellent opportunity to serve as a technical resource for engineering projects for the City, Joint Water Commission, and the Barney Reservoir Joint Ownership Commission
Note: Candidates who possess a Professional Engineer (PE) license may be hired as a Project Engineer. Candidates who do not hold a PE license may be considered for an Engineering Associate (underfill) position, provided they meet the applicable qualifications and demonstrate the ability to obtain professional engineering licensure in the future.
What You Will Be Doing
The engineer will work on capital improvement projects from planning, budgeting, and design through construction and project completion. The work involves close collaboration and coordination with other divisions in the Water Department, other City departments, staff from partner agencies, and design consultants to meet project goals. This position requires strong written and verbal communication skills to convey technical information to project stakeholders--including the public. This position will also provide help as necessary to the division's development services group for modeling fire-flows, analyzing development proposals, and other related departmental needs.
Project Engineer
Engineering Associate
  • Oregon Professional Engineer License.
  • 4 Years of engineering, design, project management experience or surveying
  • For full job classification details click
  • Oregon Fundamentals of Engineering Certification
  • 2 Years of engineering experience
  • For full job classification details click

Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Reviews plans, specifications, studies, and engineering calculations to evaluate compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and standards. Prepares and presents technical reviews based on analyses, calculations, and research.
  • Develops engineering plans and documents. Prepares engineering drawings, calculations, plans, as-builts, computer modeling, maps, specifications, or related technical documentation.
  • Prepares and reviews engineering project cost estimates, specifications, and construction schedule documentation.
  • Consults with staff, developers, contractors, inspectors, and the public regarding information requests, technical reviews, engineering specifications, and/or technical issues. Researches and provides responses, interpretation, analysis, and/or recommended solutions
  • Conducts or oversees engineering studies and projects requiring specialized research techniques and tools, including engineering and financial modeling, in the development of infrastructure master plans and capital improvement programs and projects.
  • Maintains and updates engineering related documents, plans, models, and systems. Provides input to department planning and budgeting.

Ideal Candidate
  • Working knowledge of drinking water distribution or other closely related field
  • Knowledge and experience in the layout of public infrastructure
  • Knowledge reading and using blueprints, construction drawings, and record drawings
  • Experience with design software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Knowledge and experience working with ArcGIS Pro and survey data
  • Experience with construction project delivery including, but not limited to production and or review of:
    - Design and construction documents
    - Drawings
    - Technical specifications
    - Submittals
    - Permitting requirements
    - Invoice and budget management
  • Knowledge or experience working with hydraulic modeling software and concepts
  • Ability to effectively communicate technical information in writing, over the phone, and in group meetings.
  • Detail-oriented
  • Flexible and comfortable working in a team environment
  • Ability to support emergency operations outside of normal business hours.
  • Ability to work in construction environments and industrial settings with appropriate safety equipment and personal protective equipment.

Current/Upcoming Projects
  • Multiple replacement projects for transmission pipeline pressure reducing valves.
  • Multiple replacement projects for distribution pipelines and large meters.
  • Barney Reservoir facilities maintenance and improvements.
  • Joint Water Commission hazard and mitigation studies.
  • Joint Water Commission electrical improvements.

Acceptable Experience and Training
Project Engineer
Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field; and 4 years of civil engineering design, project management or surveying experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
Engineering Associate
Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and 2 years of engineering experience including lead worker responsibilities; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
Licensing/Certifications
  • Project Engineer- State Registration as a Professional Engineer in Oregon. If licensed in another state, the ability to obtain an Oregon license within 6 months.
  • Engineering Associate- Oregon Fundamentals of Engineering Certification and ability to obtain Professional Engineer License in the future.
  • Possession of a valid State Driver's License and safe driving record.

Why Join Hillsboro?
At the City of Hillsboro, you'll play a meaningful role in shaping the community's future while working alongside dedicated professionals committed to innovation, collaboration, and excellent public service. Your expertise will directly support safe development, economic growth, and a high quality of life for our residents.
Join us and help build the future of Hillsboro-one project at a time.
When you join our team, you'll enjoy:
  • Competitive pay with City contributions to PERS retirement
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Paid time off for vacation, personal, sick leave, and holidays
  • Deferred compensation match and HRA VEBA contributions to boost your future savings
  • City-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance
  • Extra perks like bilingual pay incentives and wellness reimbursements
  • Free TriMet annual Hop Pass and SHARC and Hidden Creek Community Center recreation access for you and your immediate family
  • Paid time off to volunteer in the community through Hillsboro Helps
  • Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
  • A supportive workplace that values work/life balance and employee wellness

To learn more about our robust benefits package, please visit our
Commitment to Equity
At the City of Hillsboro, we believe that hiring a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve is essential to delivering exceptional City services and programs. The City of Hillsboro is committed to creating and supporting an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees to thrive. We value, respect, and empower employees as unique individuals with authentic voices and diverse ideas.
City of Hillsboro is proud to offer robust benefit packages to employees. Please check out our for benefit guides for our non-represented full-time employees and part-time employees. Benefits may vary for positions identified in Police, Fire, and Library collective bargaining agreements, which can also be found on the Salary and Benefits page.
01
Do you currently hold a Professional Engineer (PE) license?
  • Yes
  • No

02
In 500 words or less, describe your experience, training, and/or education with the following software packages:i. AutoCAD/Civil3Dii. Hydraulic modeling including InfoWateriii. ArcMap and ArcPro GISiv. Microsoft Word, Excel and Project
03
Describe your experience working on projects from design phase through completion of construction.
04
Please describe any additional experience, training, education, professional certifications or licenses, professional memberships, or other relevant qualifications that you believe would support your success in this position.
Required Question

Apply