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Water Operations Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Fervo Energy Company

Water Lead

Houston, TX · On-site

The Water Lead directly supervises field water operations across Fervo's full asset portfolio, and coordinates across Drilling, Completions, Resource, Production, Construction, and Facilities to make ...

Gfoat

Water Control Center Supervisor

Georgetown, TX · On-site

$106 - $133/hr

Responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of Georgetown's water distribution system through continuous monitoring and control of the City's water infrastructure. Oversees all ...

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Water Operations information

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$10

$18

$28

How much do water operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operations in Texas is $18.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $20.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is water operations?

Water Operations refer to the processes and activities involved in managing the supply, treatment, and distribution of water for public and industrial use. This includes monitoring water quality, maintaining infrastructure like pipes and pumps, ensuring regulatory compliance, and responding to emergencies such as leaks or contamination. Professionals in water operations work to ensure that safe and adequate water is delivered to communities while protecting public health and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in water operations?

To thrive in Water Operations, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, distribution systems, and relevant regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond quickly to issues and work collaboratively. These skills are critical for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient water supply and infrastructure management.

What are the typical daily challenges faced by professionals in water operations, and how can new team members best prepare for them?

Professionals in Water Operations often encounter challenges such as maintaining water quality standards, responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, and adapting to changing weather or environmental conditions. New team members can best prepare by gaining a strong understanding of regulatory requirements, familiarizing themselves with monitoring and control systems, and developing good communication skills for effective teamwork. Staying proactive with preventive maintenance and being adaptable to shift work or emergency response situations are also key to succeeding in this role.

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

AspectWater OperationsWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsOften requires state-specific water operator licensesTypically requires a water treatment operator license
Work EnvironmentIncludes water distribution systems, treatment facilities, and fieldworkPrimarily focuses on operating and maintaining water treatment equipment
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, utilities, and industrial facilitiesMunicipal water treatment plants, water utilities
Job FocusOverseeing water distribution, quality, and system maintenanceManaging water treatment processes and ensuring water quality standards

Water Operations and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles share overlapping skills and certifications, but Water Operations covers a broader scope including water distribution and system management, while Water Treatment Plant Operators focus specifically on treatment processes. Both roles are essential in maintaining safe and reliable water services in municipal and industrial settings.

How much do water operations make in the US?

Water operations professionals, including roles such as water treatment plant operators and distribution system operators, typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000 in the US. Salaries vary based on experience, certifications, location, and the complexity of the systems managed.

Is being a water operations professional worth it?

Water operations professionals manage the infrastructure and systems that supply clean water and treat wastewater, often working in field and plant environments. The role offers stable employment with opportunities for advancement and requires technical skills, certifications, and adherence to safety standards. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and environmental management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operations jobs in Texas?

The most popular types of Water Operations jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Water Operations jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Water Operations job openings:

Water Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operations job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,404 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Houston Water Operations Supervisor - DWO

City of Houston, TX

Houston, TX • On-site

$2.6K - $2.8K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

City Of Houston rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

344th of 848 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary : $2,647.71 - $2,825.60 Biweekly
Location : Houston
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 38180
Department: Houston Public Works
Opening Date: 02/19/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
POSITION OVERVIEW
Applications Accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
Division/Section : Houston Water/Drinking Water Operations
Location: Various Locations
Workdays & Hours: Mon - Sun, 6:00 am - 6:00 pm Rotating Shifts*
Subject to change*
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Supervises and monitors plant operations, work schedules and personnel. Enforce policies and guidelines to ensure compliance with State and Federal permits to protect the public's health and environment. Counsels, trains and develops personnel to improve performance. Schedules personnel for selected training programs. Monitors computer systems to detect normal and abnormal conditions and implements operational changes. Dispatches crew for scheduled/unscheduled repairs. Checks for unsafe conditions and equipment malfunctions. Reviews plant log to identify problems within the facility. Picks up supplies and materials needed to support maintenance and operating activities. Oversee special projects and repairs. Prepares responses for TCEQ (Texas Commission Environmental Quality) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and maintains other records.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/WORKING CONDITIONS
This position involves considerable physical exertion, such as regular climbing of ladders, lifting of heavy objects (up to 80 pounds) on a highly frequent basis and/or assuming awkward positions for long periods of time. There are occasional exposures to significant levels of heat, cold, moisture and air pollution.
This is a Department of Houston Public Works position at the Tier 1 Level.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Requires a high school diploma or GED certificate.
EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Five years of work experience are required, including eighteen months of experience in the operation of flash drying units or dewatering equipment used in a sludge process facility.
LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
Requires a valid Texas driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston's policy on driving.
May require a Texas Commercial driver's license.
Requires a valid TCEQ Class "B" Water Operator's certificate appropriate to position location, such as surface water.
PREFERENCES
Preference will be given to the applicants who have experience in operation of large surface water treatment plant by utilizing SCADA. Preference will be given to applicants having operations and maintenance experience working at a larger (>20mgd) surface water treatment plant.
Preference shall be given to eligible veteran applicants provided such persons possess the qualifications necessary for competent discharge of the duties involved in the position applied for, such persons are among the most qualified candidates for the position, and all other factors in accordance with Executive Order 1-6.**
GENERAL INFORMATION
ELECTION/SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED: None
However, the department may administer a skill assessment evaluation.
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION: Yes
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
SALARY INFORMATION
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate's qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.
Pay Grade 19
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing dates shown. Applications must be submitted online at: .
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: or call 832-393-6120.
All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information.
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
If you need special services or accommodations, call 832-393-6120. (TTY 7-1-1)
If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.
EOE Equal Opportunity Employment
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy
The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Wellness
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Long-term disability
  • Retirement pension
  • 457 deferred compensation plan
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 10 days of vacation each year
  • 13 city holidays, plus one floating holiday
  • Compensable Sick Leave
  • Personal Leave
  • Flexible schedules
  • Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Transportation/parking plan
  • Section 125 pretax deductions
  • Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
  • Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves
  • Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
For plan details, visit http://www.houstontx.gov/hr/benefits.html
01
What is the highest level of education you have obtained?
  • Less than 12th grade
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree or higher

02
Do you have a valid - current Driver License?
  • No
  • Yes

03
Do you have Class B or higher Surface Water Operators license?
  • No
  • Yes

04
How many years of progressively verifiable plant operation experience do you have?
  • Less than 1 year
  • 1 to less than 5 years
  • 5 to less than 7 years
  • 7 or more years

05
Do you have experience operating a Human Machine Interface (HMI) at a surface water treatment plant?
  • No
  • Yes

06
Are you a veteran who served on active duty in the Armed Forces (United States Army, Navy, AirForce, Marine Corp, or Coast Guard) for more than 90 consecutive days and received either an honorable discharge or a generaldischarge under honorable conditions?
  • No
  • Yes

Required Question

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About City of Houston

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Alive with energy and rich in diversity, Houston is a dynamic mix of imagination, talent and first-class attractions that makes it a world-class city. Home to a vibrant economy, beautiful surroundings and a population full of optimism and spirit, it's no wonder that Houston is a popular international destination. You can enjoy Houston's outstanding performing and visual arts venues. Try one of the countless restaurants available, offering cuisine in everything from Tex Mex and South American to Middle Eastern and Vietnamese. For sports fans we have local teams representing all major sports. Do some shopping; Houston offers something to fit every budget - from the exclusive shops in Houston's Uptown area to the outlet malls just outside the City

Industry

Executive offices and legislative bodies

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1836

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