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Water Operator Class 3 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Class B Commercial Driver's License may be required. * Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator Class C ...

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 ... Class B Commercial Driver's License may be required. * Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator Class C ...

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 ... Will have 1 - 3 years of acceptable operating experience. Operates mostly under supervision, 11pm ...

Southwest Water Company

Water/Wastewater Operator

Rhome, TX · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Starting at 3 weeks annually along with 11 company-paid holidays * Health and Wellness Benefits ... What You'll Bring TX - TCEQ Water Operator Class D(preferred) TX - TCEQ Wastewater D(preferred ...

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All JobsWater Operator Class 3 Jobs

Water Operator Class 3 information

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$13

$26

$40

How much do water operator class 3 jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator class 3 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Operator Class 3, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Operator Class 3, you need solid knowledge of water treatment processes, regulatory standards, and a Class 3 Water Operator certification. Familiarity with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, laboratory testing equipment, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help operators respond efficiently to system issues and regulatory requirements. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and reliable water delivery to the community.

What is the difference between Water Operator Class 3 vs Water Operator Class 2?

AspectWater Operator Class 3Water Operator Class 2
CertificationsRequires a Class 3 certification, including specific training and examsRequires a Class 2 certification, which is a higher level with more advanced requirements
Work EnvironmentOperates in water treatment plants, distribution systems, and fieldworkPerforms similar tasks but often with increased responsibility and complexity
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by municipal water agencies, private water companies, and treatment facilitiesTypically employed in larger systems or more complex water treatment operations

The main difference between Water Operator Class 3 and Water Operator Class 2 lies in certification requirements and job responsibilities. Class 2 operators have higher qualifications, enabling them to handle more complex systems and oversee larger operations. Both roles work in similar environments, but Class 2 operators often take on more advanced tasks and supervisory duties.

What are Water Operator Class 3?

A Water Operator Class 3 is a certified professional responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment and distribution systems of moderate to high complexity. They ensure that water quality meets regulatory standards by monitoring processes, performing routine testing, and making necessary adjustments to treatment methods. Class 3 operators typically have several years of experience, have passed a state or provincial certification exam, and may supervise lower-level operators. Their responsibilities help protect public health by providing safe, clean drinking water to communities.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Operator Class 3 professionals and how are they typically addressed?

Water Operator Class 3 professionals often encounter challenges such as maintaining regulatory compliance, troubleshooting mechanical or chemical process issues, and responding to unexpected equipment failures. Staying updated on changing environmental regulations and conducting regular system inspections help address compliance and operational concerns. Team collaboration is key, as operators often work closely with maintenance staff and supervisors to resolve issues efficiently and ensure continuous, safe water supply to the community.
More about Water Operator Class 3 jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Operator Class 3 jobs? Cities with the most Water Operator Class 3 job openings:
What states have the most Water Operator Class 3 jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Operator Class 3 jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator Class 3 jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator Class 3 jobs are:
Water Operator Class 3 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator Class 3 job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 7% 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/Sewer Operator Levels I, II or III

Town of Essex/Village of Essex Junction

Essex, VT • On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Town of Essex is seeking to fill a vacancy for a Water/Sewer Operator Level I, II or III in the Water/Sewer Division of Public Works. This is a full time position with excellent benefits. Full job descriptions of each job class are below or can be found within the job description at https://essexvt.bamboohr.com/careers. The Town will provide on the job training to those who are qualified.
Full Level I Description can be found: here.
Full Level II Description can be found: here.
Full Level III Description can be found: here.
The pay range for this position is $22.00 to $32.00 per hour. The starting salary for this role varies depending on the level of experience of the chosen candidate.
A full summary of benefits can be found within the job description at https://essexvt.bamboohr.com/careers or here.
This position requires a CDL and a Class D Water Operators License upon hire or within the first year of employment. The Town of Essex will pay for all needed trainings and licensures relating to this requirement. If you have an interest and eagerness to learn as well as flexibility to deal with changing priorities this may be the team for you.
This position is not located at a Waste Water or Drinking Water treatment facility. We provide service to our Town of Essex residents through maintaining the Town's Water and Sewer system.
The Town of Essex will consider any combination of education and experience that allows for successful performance in this role. The Town's goals include hiring the candidate who is best able to meet the objectives of the position. We, therefore, encourage persons with non-traditional skill sets and experiences to apply, even if candidates believe they do not meet 100% of the qualification and hiring criteria described. The preferred requirements for this role can be found in the job description link above.
This is a full-time hourly position covered by our AFSCME union contract. The Town of Essex offers a competitive benefits package to include generous vacation and sick accruals, VMERS C Retirement Plan, MVP Health Insurance, employer paid Dental and Vision insurance, Short Term Disability, Life and AD&D Insurance and optional Mission Square 457 and Roth IRA Retirement plans.
Applications can be submitted online by visiting https://essexvt.bamboohr.com/careers or interested candidates can pick up a paper application at the Essex Town Offices, 81 Main St, Essex Junction, VT 05452. This position is open until filled.
The Town of Essex is an equal opportunity employer.

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