ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Operator Certification Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City Of Augusta

WATER OPERATOR I

Augusta, KS · On-site

Water Job Status: Full-Time Details: *Starting at $17.07/hour. Hourly rates may vary depending upon ... Class I or II plant operator certification OPERATOR II: Class III or IV plant operator ...

City Of Augusta

WATER OPERATOR I

Augusta, KS · On-site

Water Job Status: Full-Time Details: *Starting at $17.07/hour. Hourly rates may vary depending upon ... Class I or II plant operator certification OPERATOR II: Class III or IV plant operator ...

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 ...

City of Valparaiso

Water Operator/Maintainer

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$24.05 - $28.76/hr

The Water Operator/Maintainer is responsible for performing maintenance and repairs on water ... IDEM WT3 water treatment certification. If a candidate does not hold a current IDEM WT3 certificate ...

HR Partners

Water Plant Operator

Louisburg, KS · On-site

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 ...

WhiteWater, Inc.

Operator III - Water

Charlton, 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 ...

WhiteWater, Inc.

Operator II- Water

Sandwich, MA · On-site

$29.96 - $35.25/hr

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

WhiteWater, Inc.

Operator III - Water

Charlton, 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 ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsEnergy And Environment JobsUtility JobsWater System Operator JobsWater Operator Certification Jobs

Water Operator Certification information

See salary details

$13

$26

$40

How much do water operator certification jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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

Augusta, KS • On-site

City Of Augusta
See more jobs at City Of Augustaexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

City Of Augusta (Georgia) rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

 
Department: Water
Job Status: Full-Time Details: *Starting at $17.07/hour. Hourly rates may vary depending upon education, experience, or qualifications.
* Salary may vary depending upon education, experience, or qualifications.
Hours: This position is on a 5 day week schedule, 8-hour workday, Monday – Friday, 7am-3:00pm.  Occasionally may have to be available for On-Call Coverage.


JOB TITLE

WATER PLANT OPERATER I, II

AKA

SUMMARY

OPERATOR 1:

Under supervision of the Water Superintendent, assists in maintaining the water distribution system and water plant.

OPERATOR 2:

With little to no supervision by the Water Superintendent, the Operator II performs general sampling and testing of water and performs maintenance and repairs at the plant and lab equipment and pump stations.

DEPARTMENT

Utilities

APPROVED ON

DIVISION

Water

APPROVED BY

REPORTS TO

Water Superintendent

REVISION DATE

STATUS

Full-Time

CLASSIFICATION

Non-Exempt

 

REQUIREMENTS

The information below outlines requirements for the position. Unless otherwise noted, all requirements apply to each level.

EDUCATION

High School Diploma/GED

KNOWLEDGE

OPERATOR I:

Basic knowledge of Water Treatment Plant & Distribution Operations

Basic knowledge of pump stations and water towers

Basic computer skills

Safe methods of lifting heavy objects and handling of chemicals

OPERATOR II:

Advanced knowledge of Water Treatment Plant Operations

Advanced knowledge of required maintenance for the treatment plant, pump stations and water towers

Basic computer skills

Safe methods of lifting heavy objects and handling of chemicals

WORK EXPERIENCE

LICENSURE

OPERATOR I:

Valid driver’s license required w/clean driving record

OPERATOR II:

Valid driver’s license with CDL Class B with no restrictions required w/clean driving record

CERTIFICATION

OPERATOR I: 

Class I or II plant operator certification

OPERATOR II:

Class III or IV plant operator certification

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in outside weather conditions, including temperature extremes.  The employee may regularly be exposed to fumes, odors, dirt, wetness, chemicals and toxins.  The noise level in the work environment occasionally requires hearing protection.


 

What City Of Augusta (Georgia) employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom