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Water Operator Certification Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Madison Utilities

Chief Water Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

... Water Treatment Operator Certification (required) • Five (5) years of utility operations and supervisory experience preferred • Strong leadership, organizational, problem-solving, and ...

Yurok Tribe (CA)

Water Operator I

Klamath, CA

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 1. Must attain Level 1-Water Treatment Plan Operator certification within one year of hire. 2. Ability to understand and apply policies, procedures, and program standards ...

US Engine Valve

Waste Water Operator

Westminster, SC · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Waste Water Operator The Wastewater Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and ... State Wastewater Operator Certification A or B. * Knowledge of wastewater treatment processes ...

GHD Group

Water/Wastewater Operator- Kingman, AZ

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Grade 3 Water Treatment Plant Operator Certification and ADEQ Grade 3 Wastewater Operator Certification * 10 years experience * Excellent ...

Yurok Tribe

Water Operator I

Klamath, CA · On-site

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 1. Must attain Level 1-Water Treatment Plan Operator certification within one year of hire. 2. Ability to understand and apply policies, procedures, and program standards ...

GHD

Water/Wastewater Operator- Kingman, AZ

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Grade 3 Water Treatment Plant Operator Certification and ADEQ Grade 3 Wastewater Operator Certification * 10 years experience * Excellent ...

WhiteWater, Inc.

Operator III - Water

Littleton, MA · On-site

$32.95 - $38.77/hr

Water Operator Position Summary : The Operator III, Water will operate and maintain assigned ... OSHA 10 General Industry Certification, or ability to obtain during pre-employment (company ...

Central States Water Resources

$30/hr

This role ensures the water and wastewater treatment processes comply with environmental ... Wastewater Operator Certification preferred but not required. * Valid Florida Driver License with ...

HR Partners

Water Plant Operator

Louisburg, KS

Class II Water Operator license preferred or the ability to obtain a Class II Water Operator certification within two years of employment. * Experience: One year of job-related experience is ...

Inframark

Surface Water Operator

La Feria, TX · 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 ...

Elwood Staffing

Waste Water Operator

Warsaw, IN

$22/hr

Waste Water Operator Looking for a career where your skills make a real impact? We are seeking a ... Candidates actively pursuing a Class B Wastewater License and nearing certification will be ...

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Water Operator Certification information

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How much do water operator certification jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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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Water Operator Certification jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator Certification job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,297 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Chief Water Operator

Madison Utilities

Madison, AL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Description
Join the Madison Utilities team as our Chief Water Operator and play a vital leadership role in providing safe, reliable drinking water to the community.
If you are detail-oriented, possess strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills, and have a proven track record in water treatment operations, we encourage you to apply.
As the Chief Water Operator, you will oversee and coordinate the daily operation and maintenance of Madison Utilities' water treatment plants, wells, storage tanks, and booster stations. In this rewarding leadership position, you will supervise a team of approximately 12-15 employees, providing direction, training, task delegation, and performance oversight while fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
The ideal candidate is a knowledgeable water treatment professional with demonstrated leadership experience and a commitment to operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and employee development.
If you're looking for a fulfilling career where you can make a meaningful impact, lead a dedicated team, and enjoy excellent benefits with opportunities for professional growth, apply today!
Responsibilities
• Ensuring compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements
• Compiling and submitting monthly reports to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM)
• Overseeing laboratory testing conducted both in-house and through outside laboratories
• Ensuring all safety policies and operational procedures are consistently followed
• Reviewing ongoing and completed projects
• Identifying opportunities to improve operations and efficiency
• Implementing initiatives that support the department's long-term success
Qualifications
• ADEM Grade IV Water Treatment Operator Certification (required)
• Five (5) years of utility operations and supervisory experience preferred
• Strong leadership, organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to effectively train, mentor, and lead a team while maintaining compliance with all applicable regulations

Apply