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Water Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Waste Water Operator B

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

The Waste Water Operator must know/understand piping and valves, start, stop and direct the flow of all the pumps in Waste Water Treatment System. Will operate three waste treatment clarifiers and ...

Waste Water Operator B

Sioux City, IA

$21 - $28.75/hr

The Waste Water Operatormust know/understand piping and valves, start, stop and direct the flow of ... Operate systems manually or by remote control and operating mechanical equipment which regulates ...

Waste Water Operator A- 1st shift

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

As a Wastewater Operator, you will maintain and monitor wastewater treatment systems to ensure safe ... Chemical exposure is chlorinated water, caustic detergent cleaners, and lubricating oils. * Noise ...

As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career. Our benefits packages focus on ...

Waste Water Operator A- 1st shift

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

As a Wastewater Operator, you will maintain and monitor wastewater treatment systems to ensure safe ... Chemical exposure is chlorinated water, caustic detergent cleaners, and lubricating oils. * Noise ...

Water/Wastewater Employment Type: Full Time Location: Des Moines, IA Compensation: $20.00 - $50.00 / hour Description Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi-disciplinary, full-service architecture ...

OVERVIEW OFJOB The Water Treatment Plan Operator A performs senior level"A"certification duties in the maintenance and operationofhigh performing, nationally recognizedwater treatment facilities.

3RD SHIFT WASTEWATER TECHNICIAN

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

... operating equipment & report any equipment problems. Recording equipment data. Help with lab testing Data entry of environmental data Operate sludge press General Housekeeping of Waste Water Plant ...

As a Wastewater Operator, you will maintain and monitor wastewater treatment systems to ensure safe ... Chemical exposure is chlorinated water, caustic detergent cleaners, and lubricating oils. * Noise ...

Wastewater Operator - 2nd Shift

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

As a Wastewater Operator, you will maintain and monitor wastewater treatment systems to ensure safe ... Chemical exposure is chlorinated water, caustic detergent cleaners, and lubricating oils. * Noise ...

Wastewater Operator - 2nd Shift

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

As a Wastewater Operator, you will maintain and monitor wastewater treatment systems to ensure safe ... Chemical exposure is chlorinated water, caustic detergent cleaners, and lubricating oils. * Noise ...

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Water Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Iowa is $24.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $28.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe and clean water supply. 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 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.

What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Water Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Water Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in IA?

For Water Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,000 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Waste Water Operator B

Sioux City, IA • On-site


Seaboard Triumph Foods
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

4.2

Company rating: 4.2 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

434th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


$21 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY: The Waste Water Operator must know/understand piping and valves, start, stop and direct the flow of all the pumps in Waste Water Treatment System. Will operate three waste treatment clarifiers and mix polymers for water treatment and will be responsible to operate skid steer loader / power industrial truck to move materials and keep the equipment, building and surrounding areas clean.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: This list is not intended to be all-inclusive and other duties may be assigned.
  • Starting, stopping, and regulating electric motors, centrifugal and positive displacements pumps, bar screens, grinders, grit collectors, air compressors, chlorinators, washers, grease skimmers, gas burners, rotary screens, conveyors, and related equipment.
  • Monitor and operate lagoon and biogas equipment.
  • Perform routine maintenance duties such as lubricating equipment and changing belts; carries out operating orders in the plant or unit of the plant to which assigned.
  • Read meters, gauges, and other control and measuring devices; maintains a shift log of unit operations to include records of meter and gauge readings and reports relative to mechanical repairs and plant operations.
  • Operate systems manually or by remote control and operating mechanical equipment which regulates the flow and treatment of sewage and sludge.
  • Responds to emergency call situations and perform standby duty for emergency response on weekends and holidays according to a predetermined schedule.
  • Make process control adjustments to keep effluent water in compliance with waste water discharge permit; keeps General Supervisor informed of all process control adjustments.
  • Oversee the operation of the DAF system for optimum performance.
  • Regulate polymer dosage for removal of solids from the wastewater.
  • Mix batches of polymer when needed.
  • Initiate repairs by maintenance personnel when needed.
  • Dump hopper used to collect material removed by the rotary drum system.
  • Transfer sludge from one storage tank to another for transferring to Rendering.
  • Monitor wastewater levels in the surge tank and aeration tank, and make any necessary adjustments in flow rates to maintain appropriate levels.
  • Periodically check the performance of the non-grease bearing wet well to insure the automatic pumping system operates properly and that the basin does not overflow causing production and environmental issues.
  • Adhere to all pertinent safety policies and procedures as required and follow good housekeeping practices to maintain a clean and safe work environment.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of industrial refrigeration, air compressors; knowledge of Process Safety Management; knowledge of permit procedures/authorization. Must have the ability to multitask and work across multiple shifts and weekends. Must be able to work with little supervision. The requirements listed below are representative of the work environment, knowledge, skill, and/or ability required or preferred.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: Must have a high school diploma or a GED equivalent qualification from an accredited institution, two (2) years' experience in a food manufacturing environment and six (6) months experience in a fresh pork processing facility.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to write reports and business correspondence; ability to effectively manage time and meet all specified deadlines.
LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to read and interpret documents in the English language such as safety files, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Must be able to effectively communicate with USDA, production and management personnel
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to apply mathematical applications to practical situations.
REASONING ABILITY: Ability to solve practical problems. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram and or schedule form.
OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Ability to use computers and all standard programs used by the industry and the ability to learn and effectively use any and all other computer programs that are or will be made available.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: While performing the duties of this job, the employee will be required to move about the facility. The employee is required to sit; use hands and fingers to handle or feel/hold objects; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; speak; hear taste and smell. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to cold/hot and/or humid conditions. During construction phase, will be exposed to all outdoor elements and dust and odors typically associated with building construction. Will frequently work near moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, cold/hot temperature and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. The work environment includes climate extremes found in all areas of plant operations.
NORMAL WORK SCHEDULE: The hours and days of work are established as needed by operations and at the discretion of management and, while generally as shown below, may be changed (increased or decreased) by management as required.
MISSION, VISION, & VALUES: Must believe and lead STF's MISSION of producing quality pork products, igniting the passion and growth of our team members, helping our community thrive, and making our business prosperous. Remembering that together we will achieve more by working safely and cultivating an inclusive and empowering environment. Must believe and fully engage in STF's VISION of being a place where we all belong, working as one, to build our future. Must live STF's VALUES in all decisions, behaviors, and interactions, which include-
SAFETY- Be committed to the safety and welfare of all employees through prevention, education, and awareness, with the ultimate goal of eliminating workplace accidents.
QUALITY- Our customers and families depend on us to provide a safe, quality product, by maintaining the highest food safety standards and desired customer specifications. Must take pride in the products we produce and serve.
DIVERSITY- We embrace diversity of identity, experience, and thought, and actively strive for inclusive behaviors across our company and our work. By promoting these values, we aim to create a positive work experience that encourage a sense of belonging.
COMMUNITY- Be a positive representative of STF in our community while supporting the organizations who work for the betterment of Siouxland.
SUSTAINABILITY- Be a steward of the earth by managing our environmental footprint.


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