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Water Operations Manager Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Biomedical Technician

Portland, OR ยท On-site

$26.75 - $35.50/hr

... water treatment equipment within our kidney care clinics. You will also train and educate ... Operations Manager, and Senior Director Technical Services, overseen by a Vice President of ...

Expert-level knowledge of water distribution and/or treatment systems, regulatory requirements, and operational best practices * Demonstrated leadership in managing complex projects, emergency ...

Expert-level knowledge of water distribution and/or treatment systems, regulatory requirements, and operational best practices * Demonstrated leadership in managing complex projects, emergency ...

Expert-level knowledge of water distribution and/or treatment systems, regulatory requirements, and operational best practices * Demonstrated leadership in managing complex projects, emergency ...

Showing results 41-60

Water Operations Manager information

See Portland, OR salary details

$32.9K

$67.3K

$125.7K

How much do water operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operations manager in Portland, OR is $67,296.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $82,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water operations manager?

Water Operations Managers oversee the daily operations of water treatment and distribution systems to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant delivery of water to communities or businesses. They manage staff, maintain equipment, monitor water quality, and ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Their responsibilities also include budgeting, reporting, and responding to emergencies such as contamination or equipment failures. Water Operations Managers play a critical role in ensuring the reliable supply of clean water and the protection of public health.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a water operations manager?

To thrive as a Water Operations Manager, you need a solid background in water treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and supervisory experience, typically supported by a degree in environmental science or engineering and relevant operator certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and compliance management software is essential for efficient operations. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and responding to emergencies. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, reliable delivery of water services while meeting health standards and regulatory requirements.

How does a water operations manager collaborate with regulatory agencies and internal teams?

Water Operations Managers frequently work with regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with water quality standards and environmental regulations. They coordinate internally with engineering, maintenance, and safety teams to implement operational protocols and respond to any issues that arise. Regular communication and documentation are essential, as is participating in audits and inspections. This collaborative approach helps maintain safe, efficient, and compliant water operations while fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability.

What is the difference between Water Operations Manager vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater Operations ManagerWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or related field; certifications like CWEA or state licenses are commonTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications such as CWEA Operator Certification are preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple facilities or departments, managing staff and operationsWorks directly at a treatment plant, operating equipment and monitoring processes
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by municipal water agencies, large industrial facilities, and consulting firmsEmployed by municipal water utilities, treatment plants, and private companies

The Water Operations Manager focuses on overseeing overall water system operations, staff management, and strategic planning, while the Water Treatment Plant Operator handles the day-to-day operation and maintenance of treatment equipment. Both roles are essential but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Is water operations management a good career?

Water operations management is a stable career that involves overseeing the treatment and distribution of water, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards. It typically requires technical skills, certifications such as a water operator license, and the ability to manage teams and equipment in a field environment. The demand for qualified managers remains steady due to ongoing infrastructure needs and regulatory requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Water Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR?

For Water Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operations Manager jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Water Operations Manager jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Water Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Operations Manager job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,296 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Water System Service Technician / Plumbing Trainee

Mr. Rooter

Gladstone, OR โ€ข On-site

$80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Mr. Rooter Plumbing turns "no industry experience" into a noble, long-term career
Performance pay with full benefits. $80,000 a year and up is a reasonable expectation. See more at the bottom of the listing.
Would you prefer a career where you go home each night knowing that your work restored another person's quality of life?
If we asked your old coach to describe you would they say, "most hustle on the team?" Would you like to be paid for that work ethic and the measurable results that you control instead of your number of years on the job or who you know?
Are you a courteous professional who would relish partnering with your colleagues in the office and in the field to add another customer comment like this to the team's collection of 3,000 five-star reviews?
Mr. Jim & Mr. Cody were very prompt, professional, and very knowledgeable. They were patient and listened to my needs. They inspected the problem and then went on to solve my problem. They also offered suggestions as to solve issues that are causing this problem. They were very neat and kind with their time. I was very impressed and comfortable having them in my home. (Google Review)
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Portland & Vancouver we protect the health of our community through the most professional resolution of water and wastewater system problems. Every team member plays an expert role. And 80% of our team had no plumbing industry experience before they joined us. If you bring high character and ambition we will welcome you into a noble, long-term career and coach you to become an industry expert.
What Mr. Rooter Plumbing expects of the Service Professional
The role of the Service Professional is to diagnose and correct plumbing, drain, and sewer problems and to deliver an outstanding customer experience. Service Professionals use their Mr. Rooter vehicle to independently visit several customers daily throughout the greater Portland and Vancouver metropolitan area as assigned by the Dispatcher. Primary responsibilities include:
  • Follow the Mr. Rooter system to earn trust, diagnose residential plumbing and drain problems, and present multiple options with up-front pricing for customer approval before starting any work.
  • Perform the repair work with excellence using hand tools, fiber optic inspection cameras, electric drain cleaning machines, high-pressure drain cleaning machines, and occasionally a jack hammer as taught during on-the-job training.
  • Collaborate with Mr. Rooter Journeyman Plumbers and assist them when a diagnosis of a customer's water system problem reveals the need for a licensed plumber. Remain current on plumbing code through in-house continuing education.
  • Embrace a technology-based, data-rich way of work. The one tool used on every job is a networked iPad for customer presentations and for data collection to support self-evaluation and performance coaching.
  • Achieve or exceed productivity targets while delivering outstanding customer service

The ideal candidate brings these attributes and experiences:
  • Exemplifies the courteous, professional attributes of the Mr. Rooter brand in every personal interaction. People trust Mr. Rooter Plumbing to help them in their homes during a time of vulnerability and need. We respect and serve all customers with an aim to restore their quality of life, whether their home is a new mansion or an aging trailer. Every job is followed by a customer satisfaction survey, linked to the Service Professional.
  • Knows how to be polished and is willing to get dirty. During a single customer visit the Service Professional may deliver an iPad presentation to a couple in their living room, crawl under the house to inspect pipes, and open a sewer cleanout as an access point for a 4,000 psi drain cleaning machine.
  • Possesses the confidence to work alone and the humility to win as a team. Service Professionals tackle most jobs solo and self-manage their pace of work. They also stay in constant communication with the Dispatchers, fellow Service Professionals, and Field Supervisor via text and phone, adjusting together as the day unfolds to ensure all customers are served.

How Mr. Rooter Plumbing supports the Service Professional
The Service Professional will join a supportive team with a Field Supervisor who has served at Mr. Rooter for 6 years and an Operations Manager with 18 years at our company. Both are accessible instantly with a phone or video call from the jobsite. In addition to supportive management Mr. Rooter provides the tools and equipment required to succeed:
  • Vast potential market and a service that is non-discretionary. Every home is a possible customer and when there is a problem with the water or wastewater system it must be repaired. This is recession-proof work.
  • Proven history of generating consistent work for Service Professionals. Mr. Rooter Plumbing has served Portland & Vancouver since 1996. Our local team is in the top 5% of all plumbing companies in the nation by size. Today we are turning down work because demand exceeds the capacity of our team.
  • Documented procedures and a full-time trainer. Mr. Rooter Plumber has written procedures that quickly guide new Service Professionals to high performance. These are refined and proven over time. We are also fortunate to have long-serving trainers who have a history of developing successful technicians. New Service Professionals who are willing to learn can be in their own truck running jobs in 90 days.
  • Sophisticated tools for customer consultations. Networked iPad with presentation and quote building tools. Fiber optic video cameras to diagnose sewer line problems and show the customer exactly what their issue is and why the recommended, long-term solution is the best choice for resolution. Each van is fully equipped with parts and the heavy equipment required to complete work.
  • Opportunity for advancement. The top managers at Mr. Rooter have all grown their plumbing careers here, starting in entry-level positions. Many opportunities exist for those who commit to learning and have the ambition to grow. Within a short period of time, those who excel can earn a Water Heater Technician license or become a trainer - both positions come with a higher pay structure. Over time Supervisor and Manager positions are options.

Total compensation and benefits include:
  • Performance pay based on the value of completed jobs with no pay limit. In the last two months our Service Professionals averaged 40-hours a week and earned $4,800 to $8,300 / month.

  • 89% of our Service Professionals earned more than five thousand a month
  • 56% of our Service Professionals earned more than sixty five hundred a month
  • 22% of our Service Professionals earned more than eight thousand a month

  • Company van/truck that you drive home, fuel card, uniforms and laundry service, phone and iPad
  • 401K with employer generous match and immediate vesting. 100% match on the first 3%, 50% match on the next 2%.
  • 3 weeks of paid time off
  • 6 paid holidays
  • Excellent medical insurance with $6,180 per year paid toward your premium by Mr. Rooter

Apply today to learn more and explore whether Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the right place for your new start.
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