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Water Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ISG

Designer - Water/Wastewater

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$20 - $50/hr

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 ...

City of Aurora

Water Treatment Operator A

Griswold, IA · On-site

$47.01/hr

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

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Operator

Sioux Center, IA

$20.75 - $28.50/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 ...

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Operator

Sioux Center, IA

$20.75 - $28.50/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 ...

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Operator

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/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 ...

APC Worldwide

Wastewater Operator - Essentia

Lytton, IA · On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

Waste applications of water and solid waste during allowed times (sunrise until midnight; beginning ... Recording Data - Frequent Operating Office Equipment - Occasional Operating Computer - Occasional ...

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Operator

Sioux Center, IA

$20.75 - $28.50/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 ...

Lauridsen Group, Inc.

Wastewater Operator - Essentia

Lytton, IA · On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

Waste applications of water and solid waste during allowed times (sunrise until midnight; beginning ... Recording Data - Frequent Operating Office Equipment - Occasional Operating Computer - Occasional ...

Perdue Farms

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 ...

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Operator - 2nd Shift

Sioux City, IA

$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 ...

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Operator - 2nd Shift

Sioux City, IA

$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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Iowa

Water Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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 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.
More about Water Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Iowa? For Water Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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:
Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,000 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Water Plant Operator

Water Plant Operator

U.S. Water Services Corporation

Boone, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

U.S. Water Services Corporation is a rapidly growing national water and wastewater utility operations company with more than 950 employees operating facilities in over twenty states. Our organization specializes in operations, maintenance, engineering, and construction services for municipal and private utilities.

We are seeking a motivated and dependable Water Plant Operator to support operations at the Boone, Iowa Water Treatment Plant. This position plays a critical role in ensuring safe, reliable, and compliant drinking water production for the community.

Position Overview

The Water Plant Operator is responsible for assisting in the daily operation, monitoring, and maintenance of a water treatment facility supplied by a wellfield under the influence of surface water. The plant utilizes aeration, lime softening, filtration, and disinfection processes to produce high-quality drinking water.

This position works under the direction of the Waterworks Supervisor (ORC) and supports all aspects of plant operations, compliance, maintenance, and facility upkeep. This is a hands-on role requiring strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to understand and respond to changing treatment conditions.

The position includes shift work, weekend coverage, and participation in an on-call rotation.

Key Responsibilities
  • Operate and monitor water treatment processes, including wellfield production, aeration systems, lime softening, filtration, and disinfection.
  • Adjust chemical feed systems based on raw water conditions and treatment goals.
  • Monitor key process parameters including turbidity, chlorine residual, pH, alkalinity, hardness, flow rates, and pressures.
  • Operate filtration systems and perform backwash cycles.
  • Utilize SCADA systems and respond to alarms.
  • Calibrate and verify instrumentation including analyzers and meters.
  • Collect samples and perform lab testing.
  • Handle and manage treatment chemicals, including bulk and day tanks.
  • Assist with maintenance and troubleshoot equipment issues and work with the facility CMMS program.
  • Maintain facility housekeeping and grounds.
  • Maintain accurate logs and documentation.
  • Work shifts, weekends, and on-call rotation.
  • Follow safety procedures and perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Iowa DNR Grade II Water Operator License preferred, but not required
  • Ability to obtain certification within required timeframe
  • Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Basic computer and SCADA and CMMS familiarity
  • Strong attention to detail
Additional Requirements
  • Valid Iowa Driver's License
  • Ability to work shifts, weekends, and holidays
  • Participation in on-call rotation
  • Ability to respond to emergencies
  • Ability to perform physical work
Why Join U.S. Water?
  • Competitive salary
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Life Insurance
  • Training and advancement opportunities

If you are a dependable individual looking to build a career in the water utility industry, we encourage you to apply.

Compensation and Benefits: Pay is commensurate with experience and market-reflective. US Water/USW Utility Group offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, paid time off, holiday pay and 401(k) with company match.

US Water/USW Utility Group offers competitive wages and benefits and is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

Apply