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Water Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bedford Regional Water Authority

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Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

Perform other duties as assigned by the Water Operations Manager. Qualifications * High School Diploma or GED * Valid Virginia Driver's License with an acceptable driving record per Authority policy

Airswift

Field Operator - Water Operations

Spring, TX · On-site

Data Management & Reporting * Maintain accurate records of operational activities, incidents, and ... Maintain awareness of water quality, disposal regulations, and operational compliance requirements.

Airswift

Field Operator - Water Operations

Spring, TX · On-site

Data Management & Reporting * Maintain accurate records of operational activities, incidents, and ... Maintain awareness of water quality, disposal regulations, and operational compliance requirements.

City of Aubrey (TX)

Water Foreman

Aubrey, TX

$59K/yr

This position is responsible for successfully managing the water operations of all associated personnel and the financial responsibilities inherent in the work, equipment, materials, and supplies ...

Black & Veatch

Staff Water Operations Specialist

Cary, NC · On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

Management Responsibilities Preferred Qualifications * At least 10 years' experience in: * wastewater operations or commissioning of wastewater plants * water treament operations and/or commissioning ...

Bear Country Inc

Operations Manager

Caledonia, WI · On-site

BCI Operations Manager SUMMARY: The BCI Operations Manager oversees all aspects of Bear Country ... pool/water operations in accordance with the Company mission statement to ?Make Memories Worth ...

Flywheel Energy

Water Operations Tech I

Parachute, CO · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Responsible for moving and operating a mobile diesel pump on oil & gas locations to manage produced ... Minimum of 3 years of experience in oil and gas field operations * Must have a high diploma or GED ...

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Water Operations Manager information

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$31K

$63.5K

$118.5K

How much do water operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operations manager in the United States is $63,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest salary for water treatment?

The highest salaries for water treatment professionals, including Water Operations Managers, can exceed $100,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand regions. Senior roles with oversight of large facilities or multiple sites tend to offer the highest compensation in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Operations Manager, and why are they important?

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.

What are the five responsibilities of an operations manager?

A Water Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing daily water treatment and distribution processes, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, managing staff and resources, maintaining infrastructure, and optimizing operational efficiency. They often use specialized software and require certifications in water treatment or engineering. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential in this role.

What are Water Operations Managers?

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 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.

What is the highest paying manager position?

In the water operations field, senior management roles such as Director of Water Operations or Water Utility Director tend to be the highest paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and relevant certifications, overseeing large teams and budgets within utility or municipal agencies.

What does a water manager do?

A water operations manager oversees the planning, coordination, and management of water supply systems, ensuring safe and efficient delivery of water to communities or facilities. They monitor water quality, maintain infrastructure, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations, often using tools like SCADA systems and requiring relevant certifications. Their role involves supervising staff and managing budgets to maintain reliable water services.

How does a Water Operations Manager typically 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.
More about Water Operations Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Operations Manager jobs? Cities with the most Water Operations Manager job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Water Operations Manager jobs? The top employers for Water Operations Manager jobs are:
What states have the most Water Operations Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Operations Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Operations Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operations Manager jobs are:
Water Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operations Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,456 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Bedford Regional Water Authority

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

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Job description

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The candidate will perform skilled and responsible work related to the efficient, safe, and compliant operation of the Authority’s water treatment, distribution, and support facilities.

Responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor multiple water system facilities including:
    • Conventional surface water treatment
    • Membrane filtration systems
    • Groundwater facilities with filtration and chemical addition
    • Distribution system components such as water tanks, valve vaults, and water mains
  • Read, interpret, and record data from meters, gauges, and instrumentation.
  • Perform and document laboratory equipment calibrations.
  • Collect and analyze water samples for regulatory compliance and process control.
  • Perform routine preventative maintenance and minor repairs; document all work using Authority software.
  • Operate, maintain, and assist with repair or replacement of valves and pumps.
  • Adjust chemical dosages, flow rates, and system controls as authorized by the responsible operator.
  • Complete accurate and timely data entry for monthly operational and regulatory reports.
  • Flush water lines according to schedule and record data in tracking software.
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of all buildings and grounds, including breakrooms and restrooms.
  • Investigate customer water quality concerns and assist as needed.
  • Operate forklifts, tractors, mowers, and a service elevator.
  • Maintain assigned vehicle in clean and operable condition.
  • Perform all work safely and in accordance with Authority policies and procedures.
  • Respond to emergency call-outs on a 24-hour basis.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Water Operations Manager.

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Valid Virginia Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record per Authority policy
  • Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Excel
  • Ability to maintain accurate operational logs and prepare reports
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
  • Effective oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, agencies, and the public
  • Organized, dependable, and self-motivated
  • Ability to work weekends, holidays, and respond to emergencies as required

Training and Certification

  • Completion of Sacramento Volume 1 within six (6) months of hire
  • Obtain and maintain Virginia Waterworks Operator License – Class IV within twelve (12) months of hire


Work Schedule

  • Typically 8–12 hour shifts, 40 hours per week
  • 30-minute unpaid lunch break
  • Regular weekend and holiday work required
  • Emergency call-in work required

Working Conditions

  • Prolonged standing and walking; minimal sitting
  • Frequent climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, pushing, pulling, and repetitive motions
  • Manual dexterity required
  • Ability to meet standard vision and hearing requirements

Company Description

A Water Authority is a public or quasi-public organization responsible for the management, protection, treatment, and distribution of safe drinking water and, in many cases, wastewater and stormwater services within a defined geographic area. Its primary mission is to ensure reliable access to clean, affordable water while protecting public health and the environment.
Water Authorities plan, operate, and maintain water supply infrastructure such as reservoirs, treatment plants, pipelines, pumping stations, and sewer systems. They are also responsible for monitoring water quality to meet or exceed federal, state, and local regulatory standards, including environmental and public health requirements.
In addition to daily operations, Water Authorities engage in long-term planning to support population growth, infrastructure sustainability, and climate resilience. They may oversee conservation programs, emergency preparedness, infrastructure upgrades, and customer education initiatives to promote responsible water use.