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Water Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Water Operator I

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$23.49 - $28.30/hr

Water Operator I Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM Have experience with water distribution systems, hydrants, valves, or underground utilities-and want local work with great hours, strong ...

Water Operator I Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM Have experience with water distribution systems, hydrants, valves, or underground utilities-and want local work with great hours, strong ...

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 ...

Water Laborer

Danville, IN · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

... operating practices, water storage, and treatment principles. Assist with implementing and enforcing backflow program, as well as responding to requests and inquiries related to installation and ...

Water Out in Fort Wayne, IN is looking to hire a full-time Water Restoration Technician to respond to our clients' needs for restoration and disaster cleanup. Would you like an active labor job where ...

Water Out in Fort Wayne, IN is looking to hire a full-time Water Restoration Technician to respond to our clients' needs for restoration and disaster cleanup. Would you like an active labor job where ...

Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology provider as well as ...

Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology provider as well as ...

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Water Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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:
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Indiana as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,667 per year, or $24.8 per hour.
Water Operator I

Water Operator I

City of Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

$23.49 - $28.30/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 7 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

138th of 644 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Water Operator I Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Have experience with water distribution systems, hydrants, valves, or underground utilities-and want local work with great hours, strong benefits, and a pension while helping keep an entire city running?
What You'll Do You'll help maintain Fort Wayne's water distribution system by troubleshooting water quality issues, maintaining hydrants and valves, coordinating shutdowns, and supporting critical infrastructure operations across the city.
Key Responsibilities • Investigate water quality, pressure, and leak concerns throughout the system • Maintain, repair, and inspect hydrants, valves, and service lines • Perform flushing operations and coordinate water main shutdowns • Operate specialized equipment and update system records/maps • Work safely in field environments, including confined spaces and all-weather conditions
What You Bring | Education & Experience • High school diploma or GED • Two years of related utility, water distribution, underground utility, or field operations • Ability to read maps and blueprints • Valid Indiana Driver's License
Preferred Certifications • Confined Space Certification
Why Work for the City of Fort Wayne Build a long-term career maintaining essential infrastructure that impacts the entire community-while earning strong benefits, stability, and a pension.
Equal Opportunity Employer