ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rite of Passage

WATER OPERATOR

San Andreas, CA

$35/hr

Rite of Passage Team is hiring for Part-Time Water Operator in San Andreas, California Nestled in the Sierra foothills of California, Yosemite and Mt. Lassen Treatment Centers located on the Sierra ...

Rite of Passage

WATER OPERATOR

San Andreas, CA · On-site

$35/hr

Rite of Passage Team is hiring for Part-Time Water Operator in San Andreas, California Nestled in the Sierra foothills of California, Yosemite and Mt. Lassen Treatment Centers located on the Sierra ...

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 ...

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 Katy

Water Operator

Katy, TX

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 Deltona

Water Operator

Deltona, FL · On-site

$25.94 - $41.53/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 ...

Inframark

Water Operator

Roxboro, NC · On-site

WATER OPERATOR I The Water Operator is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in water treatment facilities. RESPONSIBILITIES * Operates a variety of equipment/machinery, including ...

Kinetik

Water Operator

Pecos, TX · On-site

The Water Operator will report and maintain the facilities assigned to and perform other activities as required by management. * Safely perform troubleshooting, repairs, inspections, and replacement ...

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 ...

Weston & Sampson

Water Operator

Raymond, NH

$25 - $35/hr

Weston & Sampson Services is seeking a licensed, experienced Drinking Water Operator. This position will be located in the Southern, New Hampshire area. What you'll do: * Operate and maintain ...

Inframark

Water Operator

Winder, GA · On-site

Award-winning Employer of Water and Wastewater Operators Our dedication to sustainability and community impact drives us to ensure clean, safe water for future generations. Whether you're at the ...

Weston & Sampson

Water Operator

Raymond, NH · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Weston & Sampson Services is seeking a licensed, experienced Drinking Water Operator. This position will be located in the Southern, New Hampshire area. What you'll do: * Operate and maintain ...

Veolia

Water Operator

Chatham, MA

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 ...

Weston & Sampson

Water Operator

Raymond, NH · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Weston & Sampson Services is seeking a licensed, experienced Drinking Water Operator. This position will be located in the Southern, New Hampshire area. What you'll do: * Operate and maintain ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Water Operator

Chatham, MA

$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 ...

City of Deltona, FL

Water Operator

Deltona, FL · On-site

$25.94 - $41.53/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 ...

Inframark

Water Operator

Commerce, GA · On-site

WATER OPERATOR I The Operator I is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in a municipal water treatment facility. RESPONSIBILITIES * Operates a variety of equipment/machinery ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Operator Jobs

Water Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$40

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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.

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.

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 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.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe drinking water. 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 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.

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 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.
More about Water Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities with the most Water Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Water Operator jobs? The top employers for Water Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Water Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs? 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 43% Full Time, 55% 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

Rite of Passage

San Andreas, CA

$35/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Rite Of Passage rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

99th of 240 rated social care providers

Job description

Join a group of passionate advocates on our mission to improve the lives of youth!  Rite of Passage Team is hiring for Part-Time Water Operator in San Andreas, California

Nestled in the Sierra foothills of California, Yosemite and Mt. Lassen Treatment Centers located on the Sierra Ridge Campus are licensed Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Programs that offer individual, group, and family therapy, as well as evidence-based skill and rehabilitation groups.  Sierra Ridge embraces a strengths-based approach within a least restrictive program model and normalized high school environment. Here youth become part of a cohesive, supportive, dynamic community of peers and highly qualified staff. Through Rite of Passage’s Integrated Care Model, Sierra Ridge provides a trauma-responsive program that is individualized for each youth.

Pay: $35.00 per hour.

Perks & Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision and company paid Life Insurance within 90 days, and 403b match of up to 6% after one (1) year of employment, Paid Time Off that can be used as soon as it accrues ~ On-site housing available for staff use during their shift for those with a long commute, or limited transportation and more! ROP-benefits-perks-2025-ATCS.pdf

What you will do: As the Part-Time Water Operator, As the Part-Time Water Operator, you will need Water Treatment Level II Certification and Water Distribution Level I Certification ~ Ensure quality control ~ Complete required reports and documentation in a timely manner ~ Provides management with required reports and advise of any problematic situations ~ Documents all services performed ~ Reports any and all situations that may lead to a compliance issues.

To be considered you should: Be empathetic, patient, and treat others with respect ~ Be at least 21 years of age ~ Have a High School diploma or equivalent ~ Water Treatment Level II required ~ Water Distribution Level I required ~ Be able to pass a criminal background check, drug screen, physical, and TB test ~ Be able to pass a search of the child abuse central registry.

Schedule: Schedule TBD

Apply today and Make a Difference in the Lives of Youth!

After 40 years of improving the lives of youth, we are looking for passionate advocates to continue the legacy of helping young people become successful adults. As a Part-Time Water Operator, you will have the unique opportunity to create a positive, safe and supportive environment for the youth we serve while building a career rich in growth opportunities and self-fulfillment.

Follow us on Social!

Instagram / Facebook / Linkedin / Tik Tok / YouTube

What Rite Of Passage employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Rite of Passage logo

About Rite of Passage

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rite of Passage is a Nevada‑based nonprofit youth services provider founded in 1984 and headquartered in Minden, NV. It operates a national continuum of evidence‑based, trauma‑responsive programs‑including residential treatment centers, day schools, therapeutic foster care, prevention and reunification services, charter/day school education, and mentoring‑based family preservation initiatives‑serving around 2,000 youth daily across 15 states. As of 2025, the organization is led by co‑founder and CEO Ski James Broman and holds CARF Three‑Year Accreditation, affirming its program quality and compliance with national standards.

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minden, NV, US

Year founded

1984

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Rite of Passage Jobs

Apply