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Water Operator Class 3 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southwest Water Company

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 ...

HKA Enterprises

Water Operator III

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$35.08/hr

We are seeking a skilled Water Operator III to support the operation, maintenance, and optimization of water treatment and distribution systems. This role includes advanced process control ...

Amentum

Water/Wastewater Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$36.71/hr

Must possess or obtain and maintain Georgia Class III Water Operator license no later than December 2026, to include successful completion of the Drinking Water Treatment Class 3 Course no later than ...

Pae

Water/Wastewater Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$36.71/hr

Must possess or obtain and maintain Georgia Class III Water Operator license no later than December 2026, to include successful completion of the Drinking Water Treatment Class 3 Course no later than ...

Inframark

Water Operator

Danville, VA · On-site

WATER OPERATOR I We are looking for a VA Class I Waterworks Operator for the Danville water treatment plant. (Relocation available). The Operator will be responsible for operation and maintenance of ...

H2O Innovation Inc.

Water Operator

Livingston, TX · On-site

H2O Innovation is seeking a new Licensed Water Operator to join our team. Our next colleague will ... Class D Water License * Ability to perform physically demanding work (bending, digging, lifting ...

H2O Innovation Inc.

Water Operator

College Station, TX · On-site

H2O Innovation is seeking a new Licensed Water Operator to join our team. Our next colleague will ... Class D Water License * Ability to perform physically demanding work (bending, digging, lifting ...

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Be Seen First

Waste Water Operator

Millsboro, DE · On-site

$41K - $90K/yr

Active Water Operator License (Required) * 1-2 endorsements (Distribution, Disinfection, Chemical Feed, Filtration preferred) * 1-3 years of water system operating experience * Ability to recertify ...

City of Jerome, ID

Water Operator

Jerome, ID

$19.85 - $24.81/hr

Possession of Idaho OIT (Operator in Training) License or ability to obtain with a Water I license ... Valid Idaho Class B CDL without Class E Restriction but with Air Brakes Endorsement or ability to ...

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All JobsWater Operator Class 3 Jobs

Water Operator Class 3 information

See salary details

$13

$26

$40

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

As of Jun 14, 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/Wastewater Operator

Water/Wastewater Operator

SouthWest Water Company

Rhome, TX

$21 - $28.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

For over 50 years, Texas Water Utilities has been a trusted provider of water and wastewater utility services. Today, we serve over 143,000 customers in 207 Texas communities. Our service area reaches throughout the state of Texas from Mitchell County in central Texas to Matagorda on the Gulf Shores. It all starts with our people - proud members of their communities, dedicated to delivering safe, reliable, and cost-effective water utility services.

Overview

The Water/Wastewater Operator performs routine checks of water and/or wastewater treatment systems; responsible for compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local rules/regulations. Assist in all areas of operations, maintenance, and customer service as needed for all facility systems within the company. Certifications required for the job must be obtained within the specified period of time.

What We Offer
  • Paid Time Off: Starting at 3 weeks annually along with 11 company-paid holidays
  • Health and Wellness Benefits: The first day of the month after your start, you'll have access to your health, dental, prescription and vision benefits to help you stay well.  
  • 401(k) Program with Matching Contribution: We offer a 100% match on contributions up to 4% of your salary, plus an additional 3% employer contribution.
  • Grow With Us: Professional development opportunities through training, professional certifications, and education allowance.   
  • Additional Benefits: Other great benefits include company provided life insurance and Employee Assistance Program just to name a few.
  • Employee Resource Groups (ERG): ERGs are voluntary employee groups that form based on shared characteristics or backgrounds and are sponsored by the organization.
What You'll Do

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 
Reasonable Accommodations Statement 
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position will be willing and able to perform the following duties and others as assigned:

  • Operates and maintains the water/wastewater treatment facilities as required by city, state, and federal guidelines;
  • Performs daily analyses of effluent samples; makes necessary adjustments to keep facility within permit limits; Makes operational adjustments as needed to comply with state and federal water quality standards
  • Adjusts chemical treatment to ensure water quality standards are met.
  • Assists with water and wastewater line repairs, new line installation, and other work as directed.
  • Inspect and maintains pumps, motors, valves, and other plant equipment in working order, troubleshooting problems as they arise.
  • Respond to and investigate customer service calls. Complete customer service work orders, updates and maintains activity with required documentation and closes work orders in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
  • Performs routine tests on water treatment facilities including tests related to treatment process, chemicals, pumps, motors, and routine water quality sampling. Collect and analyze appropriate readings of gauges and meters;
  • Conducts routine testing, monitoring and maintenance of production wells, water/wastewater unit processes and basic laboratory analyses.
  • Performs and documents treatment process and maintenance of treatment facility equipment.
  • Documents plant performance including daily flow, well meter readings and chemical dosage and usage.
  • Other duties assigned.
 
What You'll Bring
TX - TCEQ Water Operator Class D(preferred)
TX - TCEQ Wastewater D(preferred)
Driver's License(required)
Work Environment

Field Based Role. 

About Our Company

We are a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state, or local law. 

We are an E-Verify participating employer.   

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