ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apex Bridge Talent Group

Water Operator

Millsboro, DE · On-site

A Water Operator Level B possesses a Water Operator license and 1 - 2 endorsements. Endorsements required for Millsboro include Distribution, Disinfection, Chemical Feed and Filtration. Will have 1 - ...

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 ...

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 ...

Inframark

Water Operator

Danville, VA · On-site

WATER OPERATOR I We are looking for a VA Class I Waterworks Operator for the Danville water treatment plant. (Relocation available). The Operator will be responsible for operation and maintenance of ...

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 rich health care, dental care, retirement, and paid time off programs ...

H2O Innovation Inc.

Water Operator

College Station, TX · On-site

H2O Innovation is seeking a new Licensed Water Operator to join our team. Our next colleague will hold a permanent & full-time position. This hands-on role is responsible for performing essential ...

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 rich health care, dental care, retirement, and paid time off programs ...

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 ...

H2O Innovation Inc.

Water Operator

Livingston, TX · On-site

H2O Innovation is seeking a new Licensed Water Operator to join our team. Our next colleague will hold a permanent & full-time position. This hands-on role is responsible for performing essential ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Town of Granby

Water Operator

Granby, CO · On-site

DOE + Extensive Benefits The Town of Granby is hiring a Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This is a full-time, benefited position, with rich health care, dental care, retirement, and paid ...

City of Jerome, ID

Water Operator

Jerome, ID

$19.85 - $24.81/hr

Replaces or repairs non-functioning water meters, fire hydrants, fittings, and broken pipe sections * Irrigation line and box installation and repairs * Operator in Training for meter reading and ...

Veolia

Water Operator

Chatham, MA · On-site

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 ...

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 Jun 9, 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 are water operators?

Water operators are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment plants and distribution systems. Their main duties include monitoring water quality, ensuring safe and efficient operation of water treatment processes, performing routine maintenance, and complying with environmental and public health regulations. Water operators play a crucial role in providing safe, clean drinking water to communities and may work for municipal utilities, private companies, or industrial facilities.

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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,297 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Water Operator

Apex Bridge Talent Group

Millsboro, DE

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description: Able to operate a shift unassisted and have the ability to rebuild equipment. A Water Operator Level B possesses a Water Operator license and 1 - 2 endorsements. Endorsements required for Millsboro include Distribution, Disinfection, Chemical Feed and Filtration.

Will have 1 - 3 years of acceptable operating experience. Operates mostly under supervision, 11pm to 730am Tuesday-Saturday.

Apply