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Water Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

TRC Companies, Inc.

Water Operator

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$25.63 - $32/hr

A valid motor vehicle operator's license is required at the time of application. * Support for engineering and water/wastewater system operations staff. Benefits * : TRC offers a competitive benefit ...

Inframark

Water Operator I

Fort Mcdowell, AZ · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

WATER OPERATOR I Looking for a Water Operator at our Ft McDowell plant. The Operator is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in water treatment facilities. Grade 1 water ...

City of Surprise

UTILITY OPERATOR TRAINEE

Surprise, AZ · On-site

$20.51 - $30.76/hr

Incumbents work with certified operators under close supervision. This classification may be ... This is a training classification in the Wastewater/Water Operations series and is intended as a ...

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 ...

GHD

Water/Wastewater Operator- Kingman, AZ

Phoenix, AZ

$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 ...

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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 Jul 16, 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.

What are water operators?

Water operators are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment plants and distribution systems. Their main duties include monitoring water quality, ensuring safe and efficient operation of water treatment processes, performing routine maintenance, and complying with environmental and public health regulations. Water operators play a crucial role in providing safe, clean drinking water to communities and may work for municipal utilities, private companies, or industrial facilities.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,599 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Water Operator

Water Operator

TRC Companies, Inc.

Chandler, AZ • On-site

$25.63 - $32/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

TRC Companies rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 369 rated engineering

Job description

About Us
Groundbreaker. Game changer. Pioneer.
TRC has long set the bar for clients who require more than just engineering, combining science with the latest technology to devise innovative solutions that stand the test of time. From pipelines to power plants, roadways to reservoirs, schoolyards to security solutions, clients look to TRC for breakthrough thinking backed by the innovative follow-through of an industry leader.
TRC's professionals work with a broad range of commercial, industrial and government clients and the communities they serve. We deliver breakthrough solutions that address local needs -- so our clients can better succeed in an ever-changing world.
Working at TRC means tackling interesting, meaningful projects. We pride ourselves on our collaborative spirit, entrepreneurial zeal and agile corporate structure. We recognize that the expertise of our staff is our strongest asset, so we generously reward employees for successful performance and invest in their careers through training and the development of new skills and certifications.
Overview
TRC Companies is recruiting Water and Wastewater System Engineering Technician positions to support our Phoenix, Arizona, infrastructure engineering operations. Water and Wastewater System Engineering Technicians will assist in performing a variety of construction, repair, maintenance, and operation duties in support of water and wastewater storage, distribution, collection, treatment, and SCADA system operations.
Responsibilities
  • SCADA System monitoring, operation, and reporting.
  • Reverse Osmosis water treatment system operation and maintenance
  • pump installation, repair, and maintenance.
  • storage tank and standpipe operations, repair, and maintenance.
  • residential, commercial, and industrial water and wastewater meter installation, repair, and maintenance.
  • water main, distribution line, and service connection installation, repair, and maintenance.
  • various routine, semi-skilled construction, and maintenance tasks at a variety of water and wastewater facilities.
  • valve and hydrant installation, repair, and maintenance.
  • operation of a pick-up truck or other motor vehicles (CDL not required);
  • occasional or regular overnight work
  • other duties as assigned.

Water System Engineering Technician employees may be required to work on a stand-by basis and in permitted confined spaces. Water System Engineering Technician employees may be required to work overtime, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Work experience in constructing, repairing, and maintaining various components of water or wastewater distribution, collection, storage, treatment, transmission, or related systems is highly valued. Specific work experience with SCADA systems is also highly valued.
Professional work demeanor and attire are always required on-site. Collared shirt to be worn during all on-site working hours.
INITIAL PROJECT ASSIGNMENT
  • On-site support for ongoing water & wastewater system operations and construction projects in the south Chandler-area, including construction management, field documentation, systems operations, and reporting.
  • Construction field office support for engineering and water/wastewater operations staff.

Qualifications
  • You must meet the following requirements on the date you apply, unless otherwise indicated.
  • EXPERIENCE: A high school diploma is required at the time of application. Technical school or other training certification is a competitive advantage when considering applicants.
  • DRIVER'S LICENSE: A valid motor vehicle operator's license is required at the time of application.
  • Support for engineering and water/wastewater system operations staff.

Benefits*: TRC offers a competitive benefit package consisting of:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
  • 401k package that includes both traditional and Roth IRA options and Company match.
  • Paid time off contingent upon full time or part-time status and level of seniority (ranging from 15 to 25 days per year).
  • All full-time employees enjoy a minimum of 8 Paid Holidays per year.
  • TRC ensures that all employees, including those that work part-time, receive paid sick, family, and disability leave in accordance with the laws of their state of residence.

*These benefits are applicable to US employees depending on their employment status (full time, part time, or temporary). TRC offers jurisdiction specific benefit packages for International and Puerto Rico employees.
Compensation: In accordance with local law, the below salary range is applicable for the job and location associated with this requisition. Compensation will vary based upon experience, education, skill level, geographical location, and other compensable factors.
Other Compensation: Employee may be eligible for participation in the Company's annual Discretionary Bonus Program which is contingent on Company, Business Segment, and Individual performance against Key Performance Indicators which vary by year and employee.
Disclaimers
TRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
The complete job description and application are available on TRC's career site.
TRC accepts applications for this position on an ongoing, rolling basis and reserves the right to cancel this posting at any time.
Salary Range
USD $25.63 - USD $32.00 /Hr.

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