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Water Operator Class 3 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Water/Wastewater Operator

Magnolia, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $25.75/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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Water Operator Class 3 information

See salary details

$13

$26

$40

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

As of Jul 6, 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:

WATER PURIFICATION OPERATOR - CLASS III (2764)

Jefferson Parish, LA

Gretna, LA • On-site

$41K - $50K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary: $41,946.00 - $50,335.00 Annually
Location : Parish Wide - Jefferson Parish, LA
Job Type: Permanent
Job Number: 2764-01
Department: Water - Distribution 3902
Opening Date: 07/22/2016
Closing Date: Continuous
Jefferson Parish Civil Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Purpose of Announcement
EXAMINATION IS ANNOUNCED TO ESTABLISH AN EMPLOYMENT LIST TO FILL FUTURE WEST AND EAST JEFFERSON VACANCIES IN THE DEPARTMENT OF WATER AS THEY OCCUR.
Kind of Work
Under direct supervision, the purpose of the position is to perform water purification operations for an assigned water plant of the Parish. Employees in this classification perform technical tasks in maintaining, adjusting, and monitoring activities such as chemical flows, pump operations, and sample testing. Work objectives are to provide safe drinking water to residents, industry and the general public, and to maintain regulatory compliance with EPA regulatory standards concerning drinking water standards. Performs related work as directed. This position is also an essential, emergency duty status worker and may not be relieved of duty when the Parish President or his designee recommends a voluntary or mandatory evacuation of Jefferson Parish. Position requires driving of a Parish vehicle, thus possession of a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record will be given preference.
NOTE: Employee will be required to obtain Class IV Water Treatment and Production certification from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospital within the 2 years of initial employment.
Minimum Qualifications For Admission to Examination
Possession of a Class III Water Treatment License issued by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Plus one of the following:
  1. Successful completion of high school; OR
  2. Possession of a high school equivalency certificate; OR
  3. Successful completion of Vocational/Trade school (not limited to short specific courses).
PREFERRED: Preference will be given to candidates with college coursework from an accredited college or university and/or experience in working in a Water Treatment Plant based upon the quantity of coursework and the length and quality of the work experience.
Related education, experience, and/or professional certification(s) above and beyond the minimum qualifications will be required for consideration of an entrance salary above the minimum rate.
Kind of Examination
(ENTRANCE AND PROMOTIONAL)
The examination may consist of a written test, a rating of training and experience, an oral panel interview or any combination thereof. Acceptable applicants will be notified of the time, date, and place of any assembled testing. Applicants must supply complete and accurate information concerning their training and experience including a detailed description of their work experience, the names and addresses of all previous employers and the dates of employment. The information is subject to verification and the Personnel Department reserves the right to determine the quality and quantity of education and experience claimed for credit.
JOB POSTING NO: 2764-01
DATE: 07/22/16
Applications may be filed online at OR either of the office addresses below:
Application Offices
East Jefferson: Room 206, 1221 Elmwood Park Blvd. Jefferson, LA 70123
West Jefferson: Suite 3100, 200 Derbigny St. Gretna, LA 70053
JEFFERSON PARISH CIVIL SERVICE BENEFITS
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Employees accumulate one half day of paid vacation for every two weeks worked.
Leave accrual rates increase with years of service. Any unused annual leave is
usually paid upon separation from Parish Employment.
Sick Leave
Employees accumulate one half day of paid sick leave for every two weeks worked.
Sick leave is available for personal illness, injury or medical consultations.
Holidays
Nine paid official holidays are observed, plus any holidays declared by Parish Officials.
Life Insurance
All regular employees receive a life insurance policy equal to one year's salary.
Extra insurance may be purchased.
Medical Insurance
An HMO medical insurance plan is avalable for employees and their
dependents. Jefferson Parish pays 80% of the premium for employees and 50% of
the premiums for dependents.
A Flexible Benefits Plan
Employees have the opportunity to save money by paying for health
insurance and optional insurance with pre-tax dollars. A Flexible Savings
Account for Medical Expenses and Dependent Care is also available.
Retirement
Most regular employees belong to the Parochial Employees' Retirement
System instead of the Social Security System. For employees hired after
January 01, 2007, a pension calculated at 3% of salary per year of service
is provided upon retirement at age 67 with 7 years of service, age 62 with
10 years of service, or age 55 with 30 years of service.
Tenure Payment
Employees are paid $25 per year of service in December of each year.
Employees must have worked two years before the first check is paid.
Deferred Compensation Plan(457b plan)
Similar to 401K programs, the 457b Deferred Plan allows employees to defer
up to $14,000 of pretax income each year to supplement retirement savings.
Pre-tax contributions can be cashed in upon retirement or termination without
penalty. This plan is provided by Nationwide Retirement Solutions 1-877-677-3678.
Special leaves of absence for military service, maternity leave, etc.
may be granted in accordance with the Personnel Rules.
01
The supplemental questions are a very important first step in our screening process. Therefore, you are required to complete these questions so that we may initially determine your eligibility for this position. A lack of detail and explanation in the supplemental questions and in your application may result in failure or disqualification for this position. This means you will be ineligible for further consideration in this recruitment process. Please check "yes" to show that you have read and understand this statement.
  • Yes
  • No

02
Select the option that describes your highest level of education.
  • Some High School
  • High School Diploma/GED Certificate
  • Completion of Vocational/Trade school (not limited to short specific courses)
  • Some College
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • Doctor of Philosophy

03
The Jefferson Parish Personnel Department must verify all educational credentials. For College Education, you must provide your official college transcripts and/or original college diploma. For High School Education, you must provide your original high school diploma or transcript. If you are claiming any additional educational credits or licenses on your application, please submit original, official proof of those credentials as well. To expedite the hiring process, we suggest you begin the process of obtaining this information IMMEDIATELY. For college transcripts, the College or University may mail them to: Jefferson Parish Personnel Department Attn: Recruitment Division 200 Derbigny St., Suite 3100 Gretna, LA 70053 OR The College or University may email the official transcripts to jeffjobs@jeffparish.net. For college and/or high school diplomas, the original, official diploma must be brought into one of the Personnel Offices. Failure to submit Official Transcripts/Diplomas will result in the rejection of your application. Please check "yes" to show that you have read and understand this statement.
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you possess a Class III Water Treatment License issued by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals?
  • Yes
  • No

05
How many months and/or years of work experience do you have in a Water Treatment Plant?
  • None
  • Less than 6 months
  • 6 months to less than 1 year
  • 1 year to less than 2 years
  • 2 years to less than 3 years
  • 3 years to less than 4 years
  • 4 years to less than 5 years
  • 5 years or more

06
Describe your work experience in a Water Treatment Plant. Please be sure to include when and where this experience was obtained.
Required Question