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Water Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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 Treatment Operator A

Aurora, CO ยท 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 ...

Facility Care Operator

Denver, CO ยท 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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Water Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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.

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.
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:
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,095 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Water Operator A, B, C, or D

Town of Breckenridge, CO

Breckenridge, CO โ€ข On-site

$27 - $44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Salary: $27.00 - $44.00 Hourly
Location : Breckenridge Public Works, CO
Job Type: Full Time / Year Round
Job Number: 2026-00099
Department: Public Works
Division: Public Works - Water
Opening Date: 07/17/2026
Closing Date: 8/9/2026 11:59 PM Mountain
Position Summary
The Town of Breckenridge Water Division is seeking a uniquely qualified individual for the position of Water Operator A, B, C, or D. Individuals in these positions are responsible for the operation, maintenance and upgrades of the Town Water System including drinking and industrial water treatment plants, raw water storage systems, treated water storage system, piping and distribution system, water metering and auxiliary pumping stations.
Placement in the Water Operator position is at the discretion of management and is generally based on organizational needs and candidate qualifications (See general placement information below).
Individuals with a Colorado Class D Water Operator Certification or individuals with no certifications may be considered if the individual has related experience and is willing to train, attend conferences and short schools, and take certification exams. Obtainment of a Colorado Class D Water Operator certification would be required within one (1) year of hire.
For additional information regarding this position including important roles, essential job functions and duties, knowledge, skills and abilities required, materials and equipment used, working environment, and physical activity required, please view the full
Benefits and Perks
FULL-TIME YEAR-ROUND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS & PERKS:
At the Town of Breckenridge, we believe that supporting our employees' well-being is essential to creating an engaged, connected, and high-performing workforce. As part of our commitment to our employees and their families, we offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package that includes quality health benefits, generous leave, retirement savings opportunities, wellness programs, employee events, and a variety of other resources designed to support employees both at work and beyond. For further details on the Town's benefits package, please click
Benefits Package Highlights:
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision insurance with 100% employer covered premiums for employee only coverage
  • Retirement Benefits - Town contributes 7% after 6 months and 9% after 6 years into the 401a plus opportunity to invest in a 457 or Roth IRA
  • Generous Leave Programs including 8.5 Holidays, Personal, Annual, Sick, Volunteer Time Off and Sabbatical Leave
  • Free Recreation Wellness Pass for employees and their families for the Recreation Center, Gold Run Nordic Center, and the Stephen C. West Ice Arena as well as substantially discounted golf rates at the Breckenridge Golf Club
Perks Highlights:
  • Leadership Development & Training Opportunities
  • Tuition and Education Reimbursement
  • Employee transitional housing support, Down Payment Assistance Program and Rental Deposit Assistance Program
  • Tenure Award Recognition
  • Annual Discretionary Bonus
  • Early Registration and discounted Youth After School and Camp Programs at the Breckenridge Recreation Center
  • Free Electric Vehicle (EV) charging at various Town-owned locations
  • Free Breck E-Ride electric bikeshare membership

Town of Breckenridge Core Values:
The Town of Breckenridge's Core Values guide us in fostering an inclusive Community, embracing Adaptability and Innovation, upholding Integrity, promoting effective Communication, and practicing Stewardship to responsibly manage Town resources.
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High School diploma or equivalent required.
  • Valid Colorado Driver's License required within 30 days of hire.
  • One (1) year water treatment and/or distribution experience or related field experience required.
    • A combination of related education and experience may be considered.
  • Please see minimum placement requirements for each level below.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
  • Trade or Technical School degree with a focus on water treatment and system technology highly desired.
  • Three (3) years of experience with water treatment filtrations, water distribution systems, and in areas related to the Essential Job Functions & Duties listed above.
  • Previous experience in Public Works or construction preferred.
The following serves as a general framework of the minimum requirements for placement at each level:
WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR A:
  • Possession of a current Colorado Class A Water Operators Certification.
  • A minimum of four (4) years related experience or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Colorado Class B Industrial Wastewater Operator Certificate and a Colorado Class 3 Water Distribution Certification must be obtained within a time period determined by management.
WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR B:
  • Possession of a current Colorado Class B Water Operators Certification.
  • A minimum of three (3) years related experience or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Colorado Class B Industrial Wastewater Operator Certificate and a Colorado Class 3 Water Distribution Certification must be obtained within a time period determined by management.
WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR C:
  • Possession of a current Colorado Class C Water Operators Certification.
  • A minimum of two (2) years related experience or approved equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Colorado Class B Industrial Wastewater Operator Certificate and a Colorado Class 3 Water Distribution Certification must be obtained within a time period determined by management.
WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR D:
  • Minimum of one (1) year experience in the Water Operations Industry, or related experience and a Colorado Class "D" Water Operator Certification.
    • A combination of related education and experience may be considered.
  • Valid Colorado Driver's License required within 30 days of hire.
  • Water Operator Trainees must obtain a Colorado Class "D" Water Operator Certification within their first year of employment.

Additional Information
WORK SCHEDULE:
Generally Monday through Friday 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. for the first six (6) months, with the option of changing to four (4) 10 hour work days after six (6) months of employment. Schedules may include weekends, evenings, holidays. This role will include on-call shifts after one (1) year of employment.
HIRING PAY RANGES:
Water Operator A:
Salary Range: $32.50 - $44.00 per hour, DOQ.
Water Operator B: Salary Range: $30.50- $42.00 per hour, DOQ.
Water Operator C:
Salary Range: $28.00- $39.00 per hour, DOQ.
Water Operator D:
Salary Range: $27.00-$35.00 per hour, DOQ
Potential Housing Available
The Town of Breckenridge is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you are selected for hire, the Town will check your references and conduct a background review before making you a job offer and scheduling you for orientation. If pre-employment drug-testing; medical testing; credit check; Motor Vehicle Record; Colorado Bureau of Investigation background review; or, other background reviews are required, the Town generally makes a conditional offer of hire based on successful completion of these additional steps.
The Town of Breckenridge strives to offer competitive and diverse benefit options. For eligible "FTYR" employees, these options may include medical, dental, health and dependent care flexible spending plans, retirement, employee assistance (EAP), life insurance, long-term disability, mid-term disability and supplemental insurance.
For further information please click: Full Time / Regular Benefits.
01
Did you receive a High School Diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you possess a valid CO Driver's License, or are you able to obtain within 30 days of hire?
  • Yes
  • No

03
This position requires that you are able to work five 8 hour shifts per week, which may include daytime, nights, weekends, holidays, and includes an on-call rotation. Are you able to meet this requirement?
  • Yes
  • No

04
This position requires some response during routine non-work hours when there is a need. Can you report to work within 1.5 hours if called outside of normal work hours?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have one (1) or more years experience with water treatment and/or distribution or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Please describe your experience with water treatment and/or distribution or experience in a related field:
07
What level of Colorado Water Treatment certification do you possess?
  • Class A
  • Class B
  • Class C
  • Class D
  • Other or Out of state
  • None

08
What level of Colorado Distribution Operator certification do you possess?
  • Class 4
  • Class 3
  • Class 2
  • Class 1
  • Other or Out of state
  • None

09
What level of Colorado Industrial Wastewater certification do you possess?
  • Class A
  • Class B
  • Class C
  • Class D
  • Other or Out of state
  • None

10
How many years of experience do you have working in a water or wastewater treatment plant, and/or a distribution system?
  • No experience
  • 1-3 years
  • 4-6 years
  • 7-9 years
  • 10+ years

11
Please describe your previous experience working with pumps, motors, plumbing, electrical, and/or mechanical systems:
Required Question