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Water Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Longtown Rural Water & Sewer District #1

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Water Operator

Eufaula, OK · On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Water Operator Location: Longtown Rural Water and Sewer District 1 Position Type: Full-Time Compensation: $13.50 - $18.00 per hour (commensurate with experience) About the Role We are seeking a ...

City of Leesburg

Water Operator

Leesburg, FL

$18.80 - $37.66/hr

Nature of Work Water Operator Apprentice - $18.08 per hour This is an entry level class in the Water Operator series. This class work under supervision on a training basis in the performance of a ...

City of Leesburg, FL

Water Operator

Leesburg, FL · On-site

$25.72/hr

N/A Nature of Work Water Operator Apprentice - $18.08 per hour This is an entry level class in the Water Operator series. This class work under supervision on a training basis in the performance of a ...

Marshall Municipal Utilities

Water Operator

Marshall, MN · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

WATER OPERATOR Entry-Level & Experienced Candidates Encouraged to Apply Marshall Municipal Utilities (MMU), located in Marshall, Minnesota, is currently accepting applications for the position of ...

City of Beloit

Water Operator

Beloit, WI · On-site

$25/hr

The Water Operator is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the public water supply production and distribute systems and also assists in maintenance of the water system pumping and ...

Marshall Municipal Utilities

Water Operator

Marshall, MN · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

WATER OPERATOR Entry-Level & Experienced Candidates Encouraged to Apply Marshall Municipal Utilities (MMU), located in Marshall, Minnesota, is currently accepting applications for the position of ...

City of Beloit, WI

Water Operator

Springbrook, WI · On-site

$25/hr

The Water Operator is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the public water supply production and distribute systems and also assists in maintenance of the water system pumping and ...

City of Webster

Water Operator

Webster, TX · On-site

$21.58 - $26.30/hr

This is accomplished by operating and monitoring the water plants and water distribution systems. Other duties may include maintenance of the water plants and water distribution systems, inspecting ...

City of Katy

Water Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

Water Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This essential position plays a critical role in maintaining ...

Town of Granby

Water Operator

Granby, CO · On-site

The Town of Granby is hiring a Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This is a full-time, benefited position, with health care, dental care, retirement, and paid time off programs available.

Inframark

Water Operator

Lanett, AL · On-site

Water Operator Inframark is hiring a licensed water operator to work in Lanett, AL. We are looking for a Class IV Water Operator in Alabama, or the ability to use reciprocity to obtain an Alabama ...

City of Webster

Water Operator

Webster, TX · On-site

$21.58 - $26.29/hr

This is accomplished by operating and monitoring the water plants and water distribution systems. Other duties may include maintenance of the water plants and water distribution systems, inspecting ...

City of Webster, Texas

Water Operator

Webster, TX

$21.58 - $26.30/hr

This is accomplished by operating and monitoring the water plants and water distribution systems. Other duties may include maintenance of the water plants and water distribution systems, inspecting ...

City of Katy

Water Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

Water Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This essential position plays a critical role in maintaining ...

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 ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Water Operator

Chatham, MA · On-site

$26 - $38/hr

The Operator I maintains water treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in water treatment facilities to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements. Primary Duties ...

Town of Granby

Water Operator

Granby, CO · On-site

The Town of Granby is hiring a Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This is a full-time, benefited position, with health care, dental care, retirement, and paid time off programs available.

City of Deltona, FL

Water Operator

Deltona, FL · On-site

$28.82 - $37.48/hr

Water Operator Issue Date: 07/23/26 Closing Date: Open Until Filled Eligibility: Internal and External Location: Deltona Water Licensed Operator Anticipated Hiring Rate of Pay (Depending on ...

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 ...

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Water Operator information

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$13

$26

$40

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in the United States is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water operator?

As a water treatment plant operator, also called a water operator, you measure water quality and quantity using computerized equipment. Your job duties include the maintenance and repair of water treatment equipment and water delivery systems. As a water and wastewater treatment plant operator, you collaborate with engineers, chemists, and lab assistants to test water samples to inform your decisions about water treatment systems. Your primary responsibility is to make sure that water is safe for people to drink and use in their daily lives.

What are some common challenges faced by water operators in maintaining treatment plant operations?

Water Operators often encounter challenges such as fluctuating water quality, unexpected equipment malfunctions, and strict regulatory compliance requirements. These professionals must quickly troubleshoot mechanical or chemical issues, adapt to changes in source water conditions, and ensure all processes meet local and federal safety standards. Effective communication with other team members and departments is also essential, as operators frequently coordinate with maintenance staff, engineers, and regulatory agencies to resolve issues and maintain smooth plant operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, basic chemistry, mechanical aptitude, and typically a state-issued water operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and regulatory compliance software is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set exceptional operators apart in this field. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, reliable water quality and compliance with public health standards.

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

AspectWater OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater operator licenses, state-specific certificationsWater treatment operator licenses, state certifications
Work EnvironmentWater distribution systems, pipelines, reservoirsWater treatment facilities, filtration systems
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, water districts, private water companiesMunicipal water plants, treatment facilities

Both roles require similar certifications and work in water-related environments, often within municipal or private water systems. The main difference is that Water Operators focus more on maintaining water distribution systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in operating and maintaining water treatment processes. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path in the water industry.

How much do water operators make?

Water operators in Michigan typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the water system. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe and clean water supply. The job offers stable employment, requires technical skills and certifications, and often involves working outdoors or in water treatment facilities. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and infrastructure maintenance.

What does it take to be a water operator?

A water operator is responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment and distribution systems. Requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant certifications such as a state-issued water treatment operator license, and knowledge of water quality standards, safety procedures, and equipment operation. On-the-job training and technical skills are also important for ensuring safe and efficient water service.
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For Water Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,297 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Water Operator

Longtown Rural Water & Sewer District #1

Eufaula, OK • On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

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Job description

Job Title: Water Operator

Location: Longtown Rural Water and Sewer District 1

Position Type: Full-Time

Compensation: $13.50 – $18.00 per hour (commensurate with experience)

About the Role

We are seeking a dependable, hard-working Water Operator/ Equipment Operator to join our rural water district team. In this role, you will help maintain, operate, and repair our water distribution infrastructure to ensure our community receives safe, reliable drinking water.

This position offers hands-on field experience, paid on-the-job training, and a clear path toward professional state utility licensing. While prior water utility or heavy equipment experience is a plus, it is not required—we are willing to train the right candidate.

· Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and monitoring across district water facilities, lines, and storage sites.

· Respond to main breaks, line leaks, service connections, and customer meter calls.

· Assist with new meter installations and service taps for residential and commercial customers.

· Work outdoors in all weather conditions to perform manual labor, digging, and utility repairs.

· Assist with line and system flushing.

· Participate in an on-call rotation to respond promptly to after-hours system emergencies and pump alarms.

· Operate tools, service trucks, and secondary site equipment safely.

Position Requirements

  • Education & Credentials: High school diploma or equivalent. Must possess a valid Driver’s License and reliable personal transportation to report to work and call-outs.
  • Residency: Must reside within 25 miles of the water department facility to ensure timely response times during emergency after-hours call-outs.
  • Licensing Requirement: Current DEQ Class D Water Operator License preferred, OR the ability to successfully obtain a Class D Water License within the first year of employment (training costs covered/assisted by the district).

Company Description

Production and distribution of water supply.