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Water Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Certified Water Operator (CWO), OSHA 30 Certification , Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Certification , Water Distribution Operator Certification Experience:Minimum of 4-6 years of ...

Certified Water Operator (CWO), OSHA 30 Certification , Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Certification , Water Distribution Operator Certification Experience:Minimum of 4-6 years of ...

Certified Water Operator (CWO), OSHA 30 Certification , Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Certification , Water Distribution Operator Certification Experience:Minimum of 4-6 years of ...

Certified Water Operator (CWO), OSHA 30 Certification , Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Certification , Water Distribution Operator Certification Experience:Minimum of 4-6 years of ...

Collects water, wastewater, industrial waste, groundwater, sludge, residuals and/or gas samples ... operating, maintaining and repairing utility equipment, instrumentation and associated systems.

New

Collects water, wastewater, industrial waste, groundwater, sludge, residuals and/or gas samples ... operating, maintaining and repairing utility equipment, instrumentation and associated systems.

New

Collects water, wastewater, industrial waste, groundwater, sludge, residuals and/or gas samples ... operating, maintaining and repairing utility equipment, instrumentation and associated systems.

New

Collects water, wastewater, industrial waste, groundwater, sludge, residuals and/or gas samples ... operating, maintaining and repairing utility equipment, instrumentation and associated systems.

New

Collects water, wastewater, industrial waste, groundwater, sludge, residuals and/or gas samples ... operating, maintaining and repairing utility equipment, instrumentation and associated systems.

New

Collects water, wastewater, industrial waste, groundwater, sludge, residuals and/or gas samples ... operating, maintaining and repairing utility equipment, instrumentation and associated systems.

New

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Showing results 1-20

Water Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Indiana is $24.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $28.80 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 Indiana? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Water Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in IN? For Water Operator jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Water Operator I-Part Time

Water Operator I-Part Time

City of Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago


City Of Fort Wayne rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

154th of 689 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Water Operator I

Schedule: Up to 29 Hours Per Week Flexible Schedule Based on Operational Needs

Do you enjoy solving problems in the field, working outdoors, and keeping essential services running for your community? We're looking for someone who is mechanically inclined, dependable, and ready to take ownership of critical water system operations.

What You'll Do

As a Water Operator I, you'll help maintain and operate Fort Wayne's water distribution system, ensuring residents and businesses receive safe, reliable water service. This hands-on role combines troubleshooting, field investigations, equipment operation, and customer service while working directly within the City's water infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

  • Investigate water quality concerns, low-pressure issues, leaks, hydrant problems, and service interruptions throughout the distribution system
  • Operate specialized equipment including valve-turning and vac-all machines while performing flushing, valve operations, and system maintenance
  • Inspect, test, repair, and maintain hydrants, valves, service connections, curb boxes, and other water system assets
  • Coordinate water main shutdowns, assist with infrastructure mapping updates, and communicate planned service interruptions to customers
  • Maintain accurate records, follow safety procedures, work in confined spaces, and support training and operational activities as needed

What You Bring | Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum of two years of related maintenance, utility, construction, public works, mechanical, or field operations experience
  • Ability to work independently and solve problems in the field
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety

Preferred Certifications

  • Confined Space Certification
  • Valid Indiana Driver's License

Technical Skills & Knowledge

  • Ability to read and interpret utility maps, blueprints, and system diagrams
  • Experience with water distribution systems, valves, hydrants, and underground utilities preferred
  • Ability to use Apple-based iPads and electronic recordkeeping systems
  • Knowledge of troubleshooting mechanical and operational issues in the field
  • Understanding of water system maintenance and utility operations preferred

Why Work for the City of Fort Wayne?

Every day, you'll help protect one of the community's most essential resources-clean, reliable drinking water. This position offers meaningful work, hands-on field experience, and the opportunity to develop specialized utility operations skills while serving the residents of Fort Wayne.

The City of Fort Wayne offers a collaborative team environment, valuable public service experience, and participation in the Indiana PERF retirement pension plan.

Equal Opportunity Employer


What City Of Fort Wayne employees say

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