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Water Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Operator - Water Transfer

Fort Lupton, CO · On-site

WATER TRANSFER OPERATOR Job Details Full Time / Part Time: Full Time FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Business Unit: Water Transfer Reports to: Operations Manager Travel Requirement: Yes Top Tier ...

Gunnison County, Colorado

Water/Wastewater Operator

CO · On-site

$56K - $97K/yr

The Water/Wastewater Operator will operate and monitor wastewater treatment processes, collect and analyze water and wastewater samples, perform complex laboratory testing, maintain detailed ...

City of Aurora

Water Utility Lead

Aurora, CO · On-site

$30.64 - $38.30/hr

Aurora Water is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the drinking water, sanitary sewer and storm drainage systems, treatment of drinking water and non-potable reclaimed wastewater for ...

City of Aurora

Water Treatment Operator A

Aurora, CO · On-site

$47.01/hr

OVERVIEW OF JOB The Water Treatment Plan Operator A performs senior level "A" certification duties in the maintenance and operation of high performing, nationally recognized water treatment ...

CloudKitchens

Facility Care Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$19.50 - $20.50/hr

As a Facility Care Operator (Janitorial) - you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the cleanliness, functionality, and overall satisfaction of our customers within our tech-enabled facility. . What ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Colorado

Water Operator information

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$13

$27

$42

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Colorado is $27.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.73 and $31.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe and clean water supply. 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 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.
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Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,095 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Water & Wastewater Operator

Longmont, CO • On-site

Consolidated Water Group,
See more jobs at Consolidated Water Group,external

$23 - $43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

WASTEWATER TREATMENT -A- CERTIFIED OPERATOR- NEEDED IN LOCHBUIE, CO!


Various Colorado Locations

Position Title:

Full-Time Water & Wastewater Operator

Company Overview:

Ramey Environmental Compliance, Inc. (REC, Inc.) is the premier provider of comprehensive contract operations for water and wastewater services across the Rocky Mountain Region. We specialize in municipal and industrial service delivery, offering additional expertise in collection systems (jet/vacuum cleaning and CCTV inspection), as well as heavy equipment repair and replacement.

Compensation:

We automatically pay you for your highest state certification! (Wastewater, Water, Industrial, Collections & Distribution). This means you have more control over your wages.


Pay Rates are $23.00 - $43.00 per hour depending on qualification and licenses.


Schedule:

Full-Time: 40 hours per week

Weekends & Holidays may be required

Occasional overtime may be required

No regularly scheduled night shifts (except during emergencies or special projects)

Rotating On-Call Duty


Benefits:

o Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance (coverage begins 1st of the month after hire.

o Employer matches up to 4%

o Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sick Leave

o Uniforms provided and Clothing Allowance

o Cell Phone Reimbursement

o Certification Reimbursement

o Annual Scholarships for Advanced Industry Training

o Yearly Safety Training


Key Responsibilities:

• Duties include but are not limited to operations of a water and/or wastewater treatment plant and related facilities

• Conduct compliance monitoring and process control testing

• Responding to on-call issues and customer complaints

• Maintain accurate logs and record data required for compliance and reporting

• Operate, maintenance and troubleshoot pumps, generators, and valves

• Comply with safety procedures

• Perform routine housekeeping and cleanup of facilities


Required Qualifications:


• Must have clean MVR and Valid Colorado Driver's License

• High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience

• Background and drug testing at time of hire

• Troubleshooting skills

• Basic mathematical skills

• Basic mechanical skills

• Basic organizational and communication skills

• Basic analytical skills

• Respirator confined space testing- must be clean shaven - OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134(g)(1 )(i)

• Self-starter who works well independently and in team settings

• Capable of lifting 60 lbs. regularly and working in varying environmental conditions


Preferred:

Colorado Certified Water Professionals Certification of any level