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Water Operator Certification Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Highland City

Water Operator I, II

Highland, UT · On-site

$23.39 - $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 ...

Inframark

Water Operator

Lanett, AL · On-site

Valid WaterOperator License preferred or ability to obtain required certification as a Water Treatment Plant Operator within 12 months of hire date Physical Demands * Must be able to frequently lift ...

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 ... LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: * Valid State Driver's License required; Class B Commercial ...

City of Deltona, FL

Water Operator

Deltona, FL

$28.82 - $37.48/hr

Water Operator Issue Date: 07/23/26 Closing Date: Open Until Filled Eligibility: Internal and ... Conducts scheduled plant inspections, certifying completion of such inspections in the facility ...

City of Katy

Water Operator

Katy, TX

Water Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water ... LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: * Valid State Driver's License required; Class B Commercial ...

Highland City

Water Operator I or II

Highland, UT · On-site

$23.39 - $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 - $32.87The Vibe: For the seasoned pro ready to take on more ...

City of Benicia

Water Operator II/III

Benicia, CA · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Whether you're beginning your career with a T2 certification or bringing years of hands-on ... Water Operator II Under direct supervision while training under a Water Operator III or IV, assists ...

City of Deltona

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 ... Conducts scheduled plant inspections, certifying completion of such inspections in the facility ...

Inframark

Water Operator

Chatham, VA · On-site

Licenses/Certifications: Valid Driver's License (CDL preferred). Water/Wastewater Operator's License specific to state and site-specific requirements. Other licenses may vary according to specific ...

Town of Granby

Water Operator

Granby, CO · On-site

... and certifications. • Cleaning of all system infrastructure sites on a weekly basis. • ... for water analysis. • Experience as heavy equipment operator helpful, not required. • ...

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 ... Possession of a Water Treatment or Distribution Certificate Level I. WORK ENVIRONMENT Work is ...

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, ... Various trainings and certifications. Cleaning of all system infrastructure sites on a weekly basis.

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 ... Required Certification/Licenses/Training: * Typically holds or is working toward an intermediate ...

City of Benicia, CA

Water Operator II/III

Benicia, CA · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Whether you're beginning your career with a T2 certification or bringing years of hands-on ... Water Operator II Under direct supervision while training under a Water Operator III or IV, assists ...

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Water Operator Certification information

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$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.
More about Water Operator Certification jobs

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 3% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% 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 I, II

Highland, UT • On-site

Highland City
See more jobs at Highland Cityexternal

$23.39 - $32.87/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Make Waves in Our Community: Water Distribution Operator I or II
Division: Water
Department: Public Works
Location: Highland, Utah
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Eligible for overtime!)
Position Type: Full-Time, with 24-hour emergency & on-call rotation
About the Role
Ever look at a clean, running tap and think, "Yeah, I did that"? Here's your chance! Highland City is looking for a Water Distribution Operator (Level I or II) to join our tight-knit Public Works team. Under the wing of our Culinary Water Superintendent, you'll be the boots-on-the-ground hero keeping our city's water flowing safely, cleanly, and efficiently.
Whether you are just starting out in the utility world or you're a seasoned pro who knows PRVs and booster stations like the back of your hand, we have a spot for you. This is a role where you get to work independently, team up with a great crew, play with big toys (hello, backhoes and excavators!), and directly impact our amazing community.
What You'll Do (The Day-to-Day Adventure)
No two days are the same here, but you can definitely count on a mix of the following:
  • System Superhero: Install, maintain, flush, and repair the city's water lines, storage systems, and fire hydrants.
  • Tech & Tools: Utilize advanced smart metering infrastructure and digital GIS mapping to track down leaks and keep data crisp.
  • Heavy Machinery Master: Safely operate fun equipment like loaders, backhoes, compactors, and specialized plumbing tools.
  • Safety First: Run Blue Stake markings, manage work zone safety (signalization, flagging), and keep the public safe while you work.
  • Community Connector: Respond to customer service calls, troubleshoot meter issues, and chat with residents in a polite, professional way.
Choose Your Level: Level I vs. Level II
We are hiring for either level depending on what you bring to the table:
Water Distribution Operator I - Hourly Pay Range $23.39 - $29.24
  • The Vibe: Great entry-to-mid level role for someone handy who wants to specialize in water utilities.
  • Education & Experience: High School Diploma/G.E.D. Any background in construction, plumbing, or general labor is awesome-prior water system experience is a huge plus!
  • Licenses & Certs: Valid Utah Driver's License. Must grab these within 12 months of hire (we'll help you get there!): 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 technical field decisions and mentor small crews.
  • Education & Experience: High School Diploma/G.E.D. + 4 years of related construction/plumbing experience (with at least 2 of those years deeply focused on water systems).
  • Licenses & Certs: Ready to roll on day one with a Utah Class A CDL and Grade IV Distribution Water Operator certification. Must obtain within 12 months: Cross Connection Administrator and Flagger certifications.
Are You the Perfect Fit?
You'll thrive here if you:
  • Enjoy working outdoors in all of Utah's gorgeous seasons (sun, rain, and snow!).
  • Are a great communicator who can follow instructions and write clear, simple work records.
  • Love physical work-this job keeps you moving, lifting (up to 75-100 lbs occasionally), climbing, and staying active.
  • Are dependable enough to handle the 24-hour emergency on-call rotation when the city needs you most.

The Fine Print: Must be 18 or older, pass a background check, drug screen, and a Human Performance Evaluation, and provide a clean Utah driving record.
Ready to Dive In?
If you're ready to build a stable, rewarding career with an awesome crew, apply to join Highland City today!
Highland City is an equal opportunity employer.
All qualified applicants must pass a pre-employment testing including but not limited to: Background check (18 years of age and older), Driving Record Review, Drug Screen, and Human Performance Evaluation.

Apply