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Water Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Water Operator

Wellington, CO · On-site

$48K - $100K/yr

Northern Colorado Water Association Water Operator Job Listing Northern Colorado Water Association, a rural ground water system serving roughly 1500 taps in Northern Colorado, is seeking to hire a ...

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 ...

Water Utility Lead - Pumping

Aurora, CO · On-site

$30.64 - $38.30/hr

The Water Utility Lead Worker - Pumping performs skilled, semi-skilled and manual labor duties in the operation, maintenance and repair of pump/lift stations and tanks/fore bays operating in the raw ...

Wastewater Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

We are on a mission to simplify water reuse and energy recovery, making them sustainable and cost ... Basic Function The Field Service Representative is responsible for operating and maintaining ...

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Water Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Water Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in CO? For Water Operator jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Water Operator

Northern Colorado Water Association

Wellington, CO • On-site

$48K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

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Job description

Northern Colorado Water Association

Water Operator Job Listing

Northern Colorado Water Association, a rural ground water system serving roughly 1500 taps in Northern Colorado, is seeking to hire a motivated individual to join the NCWA team; an experienced water operator is desired but onsite training will be offered for entry level candidates.  This is a full-time, benefited position with healthcare; dental and vision coverage, HSA contribution, annual retirement payment and both sick and vacation time program. Available to hire immediately.

General Purpose

Properly operate, maintain and inspect Northern Colorado Water Association water supply (groundwater) and distribution system including meter reading system.

Must be willing to perform or assist in needed repairs, maintenance and cleaning of NCWA facilities, grounds, vehicles and equipment/devices used for daily operation. A variety of skilled and labor tasks in relation to mechanical, construction, and maintenance of system.

Ability to assist in night/weekend emergency calls to provide repairs throughout system is required. A rotation will be established. When on call you must have the ability to respond to calls within 45 mins of receiving the call or emergency.

Duties/Responsibilities

·         Operate and maintain the supply and distribution system.

·         Daily system checks-including all pump stations, well sites and water storage tanks.

·         Weekly inspection and monitoring at water supply and throughout distribution system ensuring compliance with CDPHE.

·         Monitoring and maintaining all pumps and equipment in well houses and pump stations.

·         Monitor static and pumping aquifer levels.

·         Monitor and record chlorine residual weekly and maintain and order required chemicals for disinfection.

·         Monitor and maintain PRV vaults. Work with contractor for any repairs or improvements.

·         Confined space entry and training.

·         Participate in collection of all required water quality compliance samples.

·         Work with management, engineering and contractors to review all system repairs (planned/emergency) as well as system upgrades and improvements.

·         Participate in good relations with consecutive connections in distribution system.

·         Work with management and contractors for all required permitting and locate requests.

·         Ensure all locate requests are completed in timely manner and protection of infrastructure.

·         Maintain and monitor all hydrants and valves in distribution system including valve exercising, hydrant flushing and hydrant painting.

·         Monitor tank inspections and routine tank cleaning schedule.

·         Maintain and repair mechanical equipment for proper operation.

·         Maintain company vehicles, NCWA office facilities and grounds.

·         Work with management regarding source water protection plan, augmentation plan and other related water rights tasks.

·         Trouble shoot and repair system controls and equipment.

·         Attend board meetings monthly - used to communicate and keep BOD apprised.

·         Acquire and maintain required certifications to operate the system.

·         On call responsibilities- rotate for 24/7 coverage.

·         Must have functional computer skills and good organizational skills.

Preferred Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

·         Ability to conduct all required water quality compliance testing and inspections and aptitude for continued education/training regarding chemical and microbiological analyses on drinking water.

·         Ability to learn, if not already skilled in equipment operation for water supply system, distribution system, safety procedures and facility maintenance.

·         Ability to operate a range of sophisticated analytical instruments ensuring property operation of system.

·         Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, construction and welding experience is highly desired.

·         Ability to work independently when needed as well as with other employees and management cooperatively.

·         Knowledge of State of Colorado and Federal Regulations in relation to drinking water.

·         Knowledge of water quality laboratory operations and chemistry is desired but not required.

Education/Formal Training/Experience

·         A Class C Water Treatment License and Class II Distribution License are required to operate system. Having these licenses at time of application is desired but not required. NCWA will offer on-site training and preparation time to begin to acquire necessary testing with respect to CCWP testing requirements. Class D Water treatment and Class I Distribution licenses must be obtained within 6 months of employment with motivation to continue testing until required levels are met.

·         Minimum of 1 year’s experience in water treatment or water distribution is preferred but not required.

·         Possession of valid Driver’s License is required.

Hiring Range

Water System Operator Trainee (no licensing) - $48,000-$50,000 annual salary with incentive of 5% pay increase for each additional license obtained.

Water System Operator Class I Distribution/Class D Treatment - $56,000-$60,000 annual salary depending on experience level with incentive of 5% pay increase for each additional license obtained.

Water System Operator Class II Distribution/Class C Treatment - $60,000-$85,000 depending on experience level with discussion of pay increase annually.