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Water Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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

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

Sioux City, IA

$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

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 ...

Perdue Farms

Wastewater Operator

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 · 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 ...

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 - 3rd 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 - 3rd 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 - 3rd Shift

Sioux City, IA

$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 - $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 - 3rd 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 Jun 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 is the hardest part of being a water operator?

The hardest part of being a water operator is often managing emergency situations, such as equipment failures or water quality issues, which require quick decision-making and technical skills. Additionally, working in sometimes challenging environments and maintaining compliance with strict regulations can be demanding. Certification and ongoing training are essential to handle these responsibilities effectively.

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 jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Certain skilled trades and specialized roles such as water operators, commercial pilots, real estate brokers, and sales managers can earn $10,000 or more per month without a college degree, often requiring certifications, experience, or licensing. These jobs typically involve hands-on work, technical knowledge, or sales expertise and may require on-the-job training or industry-specific certifications.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Water operators typically do not earn $2,000 a day; their salaries usually range from moderate to high, depending on experience and location. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $2,000 daily often include specialized roles such as executive positions, certain medical professionals, or highly skilled contractors, but these are not typical for water operators. Most water operators earn annual salaries that are significantly lower than this daily rate.

Is it hard to become a water treatment operator?

Becoming a water treatment operator typically requires completing relevant training, obtaining a state certification, and gaining practical experience. The difficulty varies depending on local regulations and the level of certification required, but it generally involves passing exams and demonstrating knowledge of water treatment processes and safety protocols.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,000 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Wastewater Operator - Essentia

Lauridsen Group, Inc.

Lytton, IA • On-site

$20.25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

To control, monitor, and apply daily wastewater streams as well
as assigned tasks in accordance with established policies and
procedures.
This position is a 4:00PM - 12:30AM - Monday-Friday.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
High School Diploma or G.E.D. certification required.
Experience:
Experience with equipment maintenance is preferred. Wastewater handling experience is a plus, however training will be provided. Valid driver's license. Stable work history.
JOB DUTIES:
Wastewater Operation Duties:
  • Monitor wastewater flows to the city and plant lagoons, in accordance with established company procedures and state/federal regulations.
  • Monitor waste flows to storm drainage systems, in accordance with established company procedures and state/federal regulations.
  • Maintain and operate all equipment and machinery associated with handling wastewater, including irrigation reels, tractors, irrigation lines, meters, mowers, pumps, electric motors, etc.
  • Maintain required records required of wastewater management.
  • Grounds maintenance of lagoon site, including mowing, snow removal, weed control, etc.
  • Waste applications of water and solid waste during allowed times (sunrise until midnight; beginning after ground is thawed in the spring until snow is frozen in the winter).
  • Work with tenant of the grounds to ensure good farm stewardship.
  • Operate company vehicle, lifts, industrial trucks and equipment as required.

Other Tasks & Responsibilities:
  • Knowledge of organizational methods and the ability to manage multiple tasks/projects simultaneously.
  • Follow good housekeeping practices such as washing, cleaning and maintaining tools and other equipment.
  • Must be able to distinguish if food safety violations or product quality issues occur and resolve and report immediately, contacting appropriate plant management (i.e. the Plant Manager and/or the QC Manager).

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • Operate company vehicle as required and maintain a valid driver's license.
  • Operate equipment such as tractors, trucks, mowers, forklifts.
  • Perform basic math calculations.
  • Read and record data, legibly documenting for record keeping purposes.
  • Implement all safety techniques and mandated sanitary rules and regulations in accordance with established policies and procedures related plant and equipment/machinery operations.
  • Remain calm and professional at all times.
  • Understand and communicate information through use of written documentation or oral presentation.
  • Interpret and work from oral and written instructions.
  • Cooperate and work respectfully with all team members.
  • Work daily and extended hours as necessary.
  • Learn how to operate new equipment/machinery.
  • Tear down equipment, repairing and restoring to operation with the support of maintenance team members.
  • Ability to adhere to DNR recordkeeping requirements.

BASIC PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Approximate: 8-Hour Day (may be longer during peak season)
Key:
Occasional = 0% to 33%
Frequent = 34% to 66%
Continuous = 67% to 100%
N/A = Not Applicable
Standing - Frequent
Sitting - Occasional
Walking - Frequent
Bending/Kneeling/Crouching/Stooping - Occasional
Reaching Above Shoulder - Occasional
Climbing (stairs, ladders, etc.) - Occasional
Working on Heights:
Unprotected Heights - Occasional
Protected Heights - Frequent
Lifting Weights from 0 to 50 pounds - Frequent
Push/Pull/Maneuver Equipment/Products/Materials
Weighing from 0 to 100 pounds - Occasional
Be Around and/or Operating Moving Machinery/Equipment - Frequent
Operating a Vehicle (as a part of your job) - Occasional
Read/Monitor Gauges on Various Equipment/Machinery - Frequent
Hand Movements:
Recording Data - Frequent
Operating Office Equipment - Occasional
Operating Computer - Occasional
Simple Grasping (right and left) - Frequent
Firm Grasping (right and left) - Frequent
Fine Manipulating (right and left) - Frequent
Foot Movements to Operate Foot Controls - Occasional
Good Vision, Corrected to Normal; or Ability to Access
Required Information and to Perform Job Duties - Yes
Color Definition - Yes
Good Hearing, Corrected to Normal; or Ability to Communicate
and/or Understand Required Information and to Perform Job Duties - Yes
Mobility:
Ability to be Mobile throughout Required Work Areas - Continuous
Office - Occasional
Multiple Locations - Frequent
Plant - Continuous
Equipment/Maintenance or Repair Area - Occasional
Rough Terrain - Occasional
Other - N/A
BASIC MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:
This job requires the mental capabilities to handle multiple tasks and understand mechanical and equipment operations as required by job duties. The incumbent will need basic calculation skills, reading, speaking and writing skills, problem solving skills and have an ability to analyze and comprehend complex information. Communication skills are required to ensure proper equipment installation and instructions for safe usage are followed. In addition, the incumbent must be able to work independently, set priorities, determine work assignments and work methods.
WORKING CONDITIONS AND EXPOSURES:
The working conditions for this job vary; a portion of the job duties occur in an indoor environment; however mostly outside work with varying seasonal temperatures. The working conditions include but are not limited to exposure to chemicals, moving machinery and equipment, extended work hours, and high noise levels.

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