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Water Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Town of Oro Valley

Water Utility Operator I

Tucson, AZ

$41K/yr

The successful candidate will report to the Water Operations Supervisor and be expected to work collaboratively with other water operations staff. Willing to train the right candidate. If being part ...

GHD

Water/Wastewater Operator- Kingman, AZ

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

As a Wastewater/Water Operator, you will be working with the Contract Operations Group. This position offers a variety of work and you will support a diversity of projects in a challenging and unique ...

GHD Group

Water/Wastewater Operator- Kingman, AZ

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

As a Wastewater/Water Operator, you will be working with the Contract Operations Group. This position offers a variety of work and you will support a diversity of projects in a challenging and unique ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Phoenix, AZ

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Inframark

Wastewater Operator

Fort Mcdowell, AZ · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Leading the Way in Water Management Inframark's Operations and Maintenance team is an award-winning ... JOB FUNCTION/PURPOSE The Wastewater Operator is responsible for operation and maintenance of ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Arizona

Water Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$24

$37

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Arizona is $24.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do water operators make?

Water operators in Michigan typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the water system. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What are some common challenges faced by water operators in maintaining treatment plant operations?

Water Operators often encounter challenges such as fluctuating water quality, unexpected equipment malfunctions, and strict regulatory compliance requirements. These professionals must quickly troubleshoot mechanical or chemical issues, adapt to changes in source water conditions, and ensure all processes meet local and federal safety standards. Effective communication with other team members and departments is also essential, as operators frequently coordinate with maintenance staff, engineers, and regulatory agencies to resolve issues and maintain smooth plant operations.

What does it take to be a water operator?

A water operator is responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment and distribution systems. Requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant certifications such as a state-issued water treatment operator license, and knowledge of water quality standards, safety procedures, and equipment operation. On-the-job training and technical skills are also important for ensuring safe and efficient water service.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe drinking water. The job offers stable employment, requires technical skills and certifications, and often involves working outdoors or in water treatment facilities. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and infrastructure maintenance.

What is the difference between Water Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater operator licenses, state-specific certificationsWater treatment operator licenses, state certifications
Work EnvironmentWater distribution systems, pipelines, reservoirsWater treatment facilities, filtration systems
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, water districts, private water companiesMunicipal water plants, treatment facilities

Both roles require similar certifications and work in water-related environments, often within municipal or private water systems. The main difference is that Water Operators focus more on maintaining water distribution systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in operating and maintaining water treatment processes. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path in the water industry.

What is a water operator?

As a water treatment plant operator, also called a water operator, you measure water quality and quantity using computerized equipment. Your job duties include the maintenance and repair of water treatment equipment and water delivery systems. As a water and wastewater treatment plant operator, you collaborate with engineers, chemists, and lab assistants to test water samples to inform your decisions about water treatment systems. Your primary responsibility is to make sure that water is safe for people to drink and use in their daily lives.

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, basic chemistry, mechanical aptitude, and typically a state-issued water operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and regulatory compliance software is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set exceptional operators apart in this field. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, reliable water quality and compliance with public health standards.
More about Water Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Arizona? For Water Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Water Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in AZ? For Water Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,599 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Water Operator I (Distribution)

Town of Marana, AZ

Marana, AZ • On-site

$20.65 - $29.94/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Ed Honea Marana Municipal Complex, AZ
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 202600027
Department: Water
Opening Date: 02/12/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Town of Marana
Marana is one of the fastest-growing communities in Southern Arizona, located approximately 20 minutes northwest of downtown Tucson and 75 minutes southeast of Phoenix. The Town makes its decisions based on a Strategic Plan that has five focus areas: Cherished Heritage, Vibrant Community, Thriving Commerce, Healthy Lifestyles, and Proactive Public Services.
Marana's standards are high. We are an organization of excellence and have developed four Cultural Value Statements that provide the guidelines for how we work together. Our Cultural Values are: Dedicated Service, Respect, Teamwork and Engaged Innovation.
Position Description
The Town of Marana is seeking a Water Operator I to work in the Water Department. This is a full-time position and an exciting opportunity for someone interested in joining a team-oriented atmosphere in the water distribution field. The position will include operation and maintenance of the public water distribution system including system troubleshooting and repairs.
The Town offers a competitive benefits package. To learn more, please visit thepage.
Expected Hiring Range: $20.65/hour - $25.30/hour
  • placement within the expected hiring range is dependent on direct experience, internal equity and/or budget

Salary Range: $20.65/hour - $29.94/hour
  • Normal Work Hours: Monday - Friday; 7:00 am - 3:30 pm; on-call required

Examples of Duties
  • Maintains, services, and repairs water distribution system components including water mains, ARV/PRV equipment, fire hydrants, valves, backflow preventer and water metering equipment.
  • Review system maps and as built plans and perform assigned blue stakes.
  • Assist in the installation of water distribution components including water mains, fire hydrants, meters, and valves.
  • Respond to emergency repair of systems as needed.
  • Performs various skilled and semi-skilled plumbing, fabrication, operating heavy equipment, and basic hand tools.
  • Respond to customer service activities including meter reads, water audits, pressure concerns, and leak investigations.
  • Maintains an inventory of supplies, parts, and equipment used in water service maintenance.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED equivalency plus six months of additional education or training
  • Over six months of experience in the operation and maintenance of water distribution systems or a closely related field.
  • Must obtain ADEQ Grade 1 Water Distribution System Operator Certification within 12 months of hire date. (Training will be provided)

An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience that provides the desired knowledge, skills & abilities to successfully perform essential functions may be considered.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Valid Arizona Driver License
  • Ability to pass both the Town of Marana background check and a motor vehicle records check

  • Must complete a pre-employment physical including a respirator questionnaire and pass a 50-pound lift test.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • ADEQ Water Distribution Certification I
  • ADEQ Water Treatment Certification I

RECRUITMENT PROCESS
To be considered for this position, all applicants must complete the Town of Marana application form in its entirety online at Providing a resume is welcome; however, it will not substitute for completing all required sections of the application. Minimum qualifications will be reviewed and evaluated based solely on the information provided in the application. Incomplete applications or applications lacking the required details may result in disqualification from the hiring process.
Job posting will remain open until a sufficient number of applicants have met the minimum requirements. A first review date of applications will be conducted on 3/5/2026.
To be considered in the initial review, please submit your online application by 11:59 PM on 3/4/2026.
Applications submitted after this deadline may or may not be reviewed, depending on the needs and progress of the selection process.
APPLICATION STATUS UPDATES
All status updates regarding your application will be sent via email. Please ensure you provide a valid email address and regularly check your inbox, including your junk or spam folders, for important notifications throughout the hiring process.
TOWN OF MARANA CONTACT INFORMATION11555 West Civic Center Drive
Marana, AZ 85653
www.maranaaz.gov
ph (520) 382-1900 / fx (520) 382-3500
QUESTIONS
Human Resources Staff Contact
Nikki Hemphill / 520-382-1925 / nhemphill@maranaaz.gov
For technical issues with the NEOGOV site, please contact Customer Support at 1-855-524-5627.
The Town of Marana is an equal-opportunity employer. If you require a reasonable accommodation at any stage of the application/exam process due to a disability, please contact the Human Resources Department prior to any deadlines related to this recruitment process. Please contact the Human Resources Department if you would like this publication in an alternative format.
The Town of Marana offers a variety of benefits to meet your needs. Visit our benefits site for more information:
01
Please select the highest level of education that you have completed.
  • I have a high school diploma or general education equivalency
  • I have some college past the high school level
  • I have an associate's degree
  • I have a bachelor's degree
  • I have a master's degree
  • None of the above options apply to me

02
Do you have a valid Arizona Driver License? (If you answered no, it will be required at time of hire)
  • Yes
  • No

03
Please select the item below that more closely describes your experience in operation and maintenance of water distribution systems or closely related field.
  • I have no related experience
  • I have less than 6 months of direct experience
  • I have more than 6 months but less than 1 year of direct experience
  • I have more than 1 year but less than 3 years of direct experience
  • I have more than 3 years but less than 5 years of direct experience
  • I have more than 5 years of direct experience

Required Question

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