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Water Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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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.
More about Water Operator jobs
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 are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Colorado? For Water Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for 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 jobs near you
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/Wastewater Section Head

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT)

Englewood, CO

$176K - $218K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 441 rated engineering

Job description

Job Description

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.

JMT is seeking a highly motivated individual, in the Denver, CO area, who has the desire grow the water/wastewater section in a collaborative and progressive workplace. This position has excellent potential for career advancement including developing and leading the water/wastewater engineering practice in the region and supporting national growth into other regions. This candidate will be responsible for overseeing project delivery, staff development and growth, quality control processes, and business development planning and execution. The candidate will be expected to coordinate with clients, contractors, outside consultants, government agencies and internal staff.

 In addition to the technical and project management skills, the successful candidate will have experience with and the desire to fully understand the business side of the practice including business development, client management, financial performance, staff development, and overseeing the quality of our products and services.

Position summary: Responsible for business development, financial success, and managing staff for the department at the local level. 

100% employee-owned (ESOP) and offer outstanding health care coverage and other benefits, including:

  • Affordable Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance 
  • Company paid Life and Disability Insurance 
  • Paid Time Off  
  • Paid Holidays  
  • Paid Caregiver Leave Program  
  • 401K Retirement Plan (Traditional and Roth options) 
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) 
  • Career Development Programs  
  • And more... 
  • Benefits | JMT 

Compensation is $176,000-$218,000/annually, commensurate with experience, education, and certifications.

Essential functions and responsibilities: 

  • Coordinate strategic growth plan with office managers and practice leaders 
  • Establish and grow market presence in area through marketing and business development 
  • Manage financial budget for department and allocate resources accordingly 
  • Lead and contribute to the production of proposals 
  • Serve as a technical expertise resource to project managers and technical staff 
  • Establish resources staffing needs for the section 
  • Interview and hire staff for the section 
  • Perform performance reviews for staff based on input from project managers on assigned teams 
  • Lead and manage team members by providing leadership and continuous performance management (setting expectations, goals, feedback, 1:1 meeting, coaching) that supports the growth and development of team.  

Nonessential functions and responsibilities: 

  • Perform other related duties as assigned 

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