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How much do water department jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for water department in the United States is $22.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.72 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.

More about Water Department jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Department jobs? Cities with the most Water Department job openings:
What states have the most Water Department jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Department jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Department jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Department jobs are:
Water Department jobs near you
General Manager - Marion Water Deparment

General Manager - Marion Water Deparment

City of Marion

Marion, IA • On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Deadline to Apply: Friday, July 24th by 4:30 pm
JOB INFORMATION
Job Title: General Manager - Marion Water Department
Department: Water
Reports to: Board of Trustees
Location: Water Department
FLSA Status: Exempt
Overtime Status: No Paid Overtime
JOB SUMMARY
The General Manager reports directly to a 5-member board of trustees who are appointed by the mayor and approved by the City Council. The General Manager oversees daily operations, financial management, strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and customer service while maintaining strong relationships with employees, customers, contractors, other city departments and community stakeholders. The General Manager is committed to serving the public and combining operational knowledge, sound decision-making and financial stewardship to meet the future needs of Marion's growing community.
ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/WORK PERFORMED
Under General Direction of the Board of Trustees:
  • Formulate and review Rules and Regulations and applicable Standard Specifications of the Board.
  • Oversee department supervisors in their operational tasks and maintenance of the water treatment plants; water distribution system, and the department office.
  • Coordinate State and Federal requirements with the operations of the Utility.
  • Manage and plan for financial, capital, natural, and human resources of the water department.
  • Follow Marion Water Department personnel policies.
  • Implement, direct and coordinate policies as established by the Board of Trustees.
  • Solicit feedback from water department personnel to prepare an annual budget for Board review and approval that meets the operating, capital, and financial needs of the department.
  • Supervise and report financial and operational status of the department to the Board.
  • Review water rates and projected cash flows annually and provide recommendations of adjustments to the Board.
  • Manage capital and financial plans to allow for efficient maintenance and growth of the water system to meet the demands of the citizens and business of the city of Marion.
  • Review and approve construction and site plans as needed.
  • Serve as Secretary to the Board of Trustees and ensure safekeeping of all official documents, contracts, and Board meeting minutes.
  • Serve as the Hearing Officer in the event of personnel matters or customer complaints.
  • Review and approve expenditures prior to payment.
  • Oversee monthly bank statements and present the monthly fund balance report to the Board.
  • Supervise the department's public relations efforts, including dissemination of the bi-annual Consumer Confidence Report.
  • Represent the department in the community, as a public spoke person as all times - including outside of normal working hours.
  • Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS
  • Ability to foster strong relationships with industry peers, policy makers, Water and City Department Supervisors/Employees, and stakeholders in other organizations.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with knowledge or public relations principles and techniques.
  • Ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituents in a diverse community.
  • Possess regulatory knowledge and an understanding of the water industry.
  • Possess knowledge of contracting, negotiating and change orders.
  • Skilled in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures.
  • Ability to analyze and interpret financial data, develop financial plans and manage resources.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead teams, develop employees, and promote equitable, inclusive workplace practices.
  • Demonstrate respect, appreciation, and effective working relationships with Water and other City Department Leadership.
  • Skilled in collaborating with and informing a diverse Board, multiple committees, and community stakeholders on water issues, concerns and priorities.
  • Extensive knowledge of water system practices and procedures, including knowledge of federal and state laws and regulations.
  • Possess knowledge of scientific and engineering principles related to water utility operations, infrastructure, and compliance.
  • Strong understanding of Cost-of-Service methodologies and utility accounting practices.
  • Possess knowledge of technology architecture, information systems, and business applications that support utility operations and business functions.
  • Proficient in utilizing Microsoft Suite, including Word, Excel, Power Point, and Outlook., Adobe Acrobat, AI CoPilot/GOV.ai.
  • Proficient in utilizing Teams/Zoom.
  • Proficient in utilizing office equipment such as printer/copier, fax, laptop/computer/tablet, and smart phone.
  • Ability to utilize GIS, budgeting software, and AutoCAD.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, Science, Finance, Public Administration, Business Administration or related field and/or years of progressive utility program management experience including administrative and supervisory responsibility required. Advance degree in Engineering, Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
  • Water industry or public sector experience preferred.
  • Active participation within professional water organizations preferred.
  • Reside within the metro area preferred.
  • Valid State of Iowa Driver's license with good driving record.

REQUIRED BACKGROUND CHECKS
  • Criminal Background Check
  • Sex Offender Registry Check
  • Driving Record Check
  • Drug Screen

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