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Water Operator Certification Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Waterworks Operator Certification Grade T - Subclasses D ...

City of Beloit, WI

Water Operator

Springbrook, WI · On-site

$25/hr

PW- Water Resources- Water Utility Opening Date: 08/17/2026 Closing Date: 9/9/2026 11:59 PM Central ... Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Waterworks Operator Certification Grade T - Subclasses D ...

Marshall Municipal Utilities

Water Operator

Marshall, MN · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

A Class D Water Operator Certificate is required within two years of hire, and all candidates must be able to maintain a 20-minute on-call response time. Candidates with any of the following ...

Marshall Municipal Utilities

Water Operator

Marshall, MN · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

A Class D Water Operator Certificate is required within two years of hire, and all candidates must be able to maintain a 20-minute on-call response time. Candidates with any of the following ...

Provo

Drinking Water Plant Operator (Appr. - III)

Provo, UT · On-site

$24.74 - $42.51/hr

A valid, lawful Commercial Driver License (CDL). * A Utah Treatment Grade I (T1) Water Operator Certification. Level II * Two (2) years of professional water/wastewater operator experience OR Utah ...

Southwest Water Company

Operator II

Savannah, GA · On-site

... Certifications GA- Grade III Water Operator Certification GA- Grade III Wastewater Operator ... Certification Drivers License Work Experience 2 years of experience working in water and wastewater ...

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 ... Professional Certification Pay to encourage your development. Please apply online at Conditional ...

SouthWest Water Company

Operator II

Savannah, GA · On-site

... Certifications GA- Grade III Water Operator Certification GA- Grade III Wastewater Operator ... Certification Drivers License Work Experience 2 years of experience working in water and wastewater ...

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 ... Professional Certification Pay to encourage your development. Please apply online at Conditional ...

City of Webster, Texas

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 ... Professional Certification Pay to encourage your development. Please apply online at Conditional ...

Highland City

Water Operator I, II

American Fork, UT · On-site

$25.29 - $32.87/hr

Utah Class A CDL, Grade IV Distribution Water Operator cert, and Flagger cert. Water Distribution Operator II - Hourly Pay Range $25.29 - $32.87 * The Vibe: For the seasoned pro ready to take on more ...

City of Dunedin

Water Plant Operator/Trainee

Dunedin, FL · On-site

$38K - $53K/yr

Assists certified operators in the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of water treatment plant processes to ensure the production of safe, high-quality drinking water. Performs routine ...

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Water Operator Certification information

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$13

$26

$40

How much do water operator certification jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator certification 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 water operator certification?

Water Operator Certification is a professional credential required for individuals responsible for operating public water systems. This certification ensures that operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe, clean drinking water and comply with state and federal regulations. The certification process typically involves completing training, passing an exam, and fulfilling ongoing education requirements. The level and type of certification may vary depending on the complexity of the water system and state-specific regulations.

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, regulatory compliance, and equipment maintenance, typically backed by a high school diploma and state-specific Water Operator Certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and safety protocols is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong communication skills help operators respond effectively to system issues and collaborate with teams. These skills ensure the safe delivery of potable water, compliance with regulations, and protection of public health.

What are some common challenges faced by water operator certification holders in their daily work?

Certified Water Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining regulatory compliance, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and responding to unexpected water quality issues. They must stay current with evolving safety standards and environmental regulations while ensuring consistent water treatment and distribution. Effective communication with team members and other departments is essential, especially during emergencies or routine maintenance, to guarantee public health and system reliability.

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

AspectWater Operator CertificationWater Treatment Plant Operator
Required CredentialsCertification/license from state or local agencyTypically requires certification/license, often the same as Water Operator Certification
Work EnvironmentVarious water systems, including distribution and treatmentPrimarily operates and maintains water treatment facilities
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal, industrial, and private water providersMunicipal water treatment plants, industrial facilities

Water Operator Certification and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles often overlap, with certification serving as a prerequisite for operating water treatment facilities. While certification covers broader water system operations, the Water Treatment Plant Operator focuses specifically on treatment processes. Both roles are essential in ensuring safe, clean water supply and are frequently required by employers in the water industry.

Are water operators in high demand?

Water operator certification is in high demand due to ongoing needs for maintaining safe and reliable water systems. The job often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of water treatment processes, making qualified operators essential in many communities and utilities.

How long does it take to get a water operator certification?

The time to obtain a water operator certification varies depending on the certification level and state requirements, but typically ranges from several months to a year. Candidates often need to complete training courses, gain practical experience, and pass written exams to become certified water operators.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator certification can lead to stable employment in water treatment and distribution facilities, often requiring technical skills and adherence to safety standards. The job typically offers regular hours, opportunities for advancement, and the satisfaction of providing a vital public service.

What can I do with a water operator certification?

A water operator certification qualifies individuals to work in water treatment and distribution facilities, managing the operation and maintenance of water systems. Certified operators ensure water quality, comply with regulations, and often perform tasks using specialized tools and monitoring equipment. This certification can lead to employment in public utilities, private water companies, or environmental agencies.
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What cities are hiring for Water Operator Certification jobs?

Cities with the most Water Operator Certification job openings:

What job categories do people searching Water Operator Certification jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operator Certification jobs are:

Water Operator Certification jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator Certification job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,297 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Water Operator

Beloit, WI • On-site

City of Beloit
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about City of Beloitexternal

$25/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

City Of Beloit (Wisconsin) rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Summary of Job The City of Beloit has an exciting employment opportunity in the Water Resources Division of the Public Works Department as a Water Operator. 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 booster stations, the water production and storage system, and general Water Resources facilities and grounds. This position performs routine station checks, water sampling required by Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and utility, data collection and reporting, and handles chemicals.

The Water Operator may work variable shifts and will be subject to a rotation on-call duty schedule for off-hours customer service, including a maximum average response time. This position typically works Monday through Thursday from 6:00a.m. to 3:00p.m

and Fridays from 6:00a.m. to 10:00a.m. Schedule is subject to change based on business needs

Qualifications MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS High School diploma or equivalent. A valid driver's license and satisfactory driving record One to three years of responsible work experience in the operation of a public water system. A commercial driver's license (CDL) - Class B, or the ability to obtain such CDL within one year of hire.

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Waterworks Operator Certification Grade T - Subclasses D and G or the ability to obtain said grade within 6 months of hire. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Waterworks Operator Certification Grade 1 or the ability to obtain said grade within eighteen months of hire. Other combinations of training and/or experience which can be demonstrated to result in the possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the duties of these positions will also be considered.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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