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Water Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

City Of Augusta

WATER OPERATOR I

Augusta, KS · On-site

JOB TITLE WATER PLANT OPERATER I, II AKA SUMMARY OPERATOR 1: Under supervision of the Water Superintendent, assists in maintaining the water distribution system and water plant. OPERATOR 2: With ...

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Water Plant Operator

Louisburg, KS · On-site

Water Plant Operator Job Classification: Non-exempt, Full-Time Reporting Relationship: Water Plant Supervisor Work Location: Louisburg, KS Under the supervision of the Water Plant Supervisor, Water ...

City of Hutchinson

Water Maintenance Worker

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$20.10 - $22.60/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

A Class I or higher Water Operator certification, and Cross Connection knowledge are preferred. Requires Competent Person for Excavation and Trenching and Confined Space Certification (within 1 year ...

City of Hutchinson

Water Maintenance Worker

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$20.10 - $22.60/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Class I or higher Water Operator certification, and Cross Connection knowledge are preferred. Requires Competent Person for Excavation and Trenching and Confined Space Certification (within 1 year ...

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Water Operator information

See Kansas salary details

$11

$23

$36

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Kansas is $23.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $27.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe drinking water. 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 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.
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Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,425 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

WATER OPERATOR I

City Of Augusta

Augusta, KS • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

City Of Augusta (Georgia) rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

679th of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Department: Water
Job Status: Full-Time Details: *Starting at $17.07/hour. Hourly rates may vary depending upon education, experience, or qualifications.
* Salary may vary depending upon education, experience, or qualifications.
Hours: This position is on a 5 day week schedule, 8-hour workday, Monday – Friday, 7am-3:00pm. Occasionally may have to be available for On-Call Coverage.


JOB TITLE

WATER PLANT OPERATER I, II

AKA

SUMMARY

OPERATOR 1:

Under supervision of the Water Superintendent, assists in maintaining the water distribution system and water plant.

OPERATOR 2:

With little to no supervision by the Water Superintendent, the Operator II performs general sampling and testing of water and performs maintenance and repairs at the plant and lab equipment and pump stations.

DEPARTMENT

Utilities

APPROVED ON

DIVISION

Water

APPROVED BY

REPORTS TO

Water Superintendent

REVISION DATE

STATUS

Full-Time

CLASSIFICATION

Non-Exempt

REQUIREMENTS

The information below outlines requirements for the position. Unless otherwise noted, all requirements apply to each level.

EDUCATION

High School Diploma/GED

KNOWLEDGE

OPERATOR I:

Basic knowledge of Water Treatment Plant & Distribution Operations

Basic knowledge of pump stations and water towers

Basic computer skills

Safe methods of lifting heavy objects and handling of chemicals

OPERATOR II:

Advanced knowledge of Water Treatment Plant Operations

Advanced knowledge of required maintenance for the treatment plant, pump stations and water towers

Basic computer skills

Safe methods of lifting heavy objects and handling of chemicals

WORK EXPERIENCE

LICENSURE

OPERATOR I:

Valid driver’s license required w/clean driving record

OPERATOR II:

Valid driver’s license with CDL Class B with no restrictions required w/clean driving record

CERTIFICATION

OPERATOR I:

Class I or II plant operator certification

OPERATOR II:

Class III or IV plant operator certification

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in outside weather conditions, including temperature extremes. The employee may regularly be exposed to fumes, odors, dirt, wetness, chemicals and toxins. The noise level in the work environment occasionally requires hearing protection.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

OPERATOR I

Plant:

  1. Backwash filters each day (normally 2 daily)
  2. Calibrate PH meter and perform plant tests on PH, chlorine, temperature and CT calculations
  3. Change out/replace chemicals and log usage daily of all (polymers, chlorine, alum and carbon)
  4. Respond to alarms and calls in a timely manner
  5. General cleaning of all buildings, pipes and equipment
  6. Work in “on call” rotation

Distribution:

  1. Assist in the installation, repair and maintenance of the City’s water system, including water mains, water service lines and hydrants
  2. Install, replace, repair, inspect and maintain residential and commercial water meters and hydrant meters used by construction firms and fire hydrants
  3. Keep a record of new meter installations and exchanges
  4. Prepare and update utility mapping.
  5. Compute water consumption
  6. Turn water service off and on as appropriate
  • Receive and respond to inquiries and complaints from customers and the general public regarding water service
  • Drive and operate heavy equipment
  • Perform locates for City of Augusta utilities
  • Perform safety inspections of equipment and machinery
  • Respond to emergency calls during work and after normal working hours
  • Report defects and irregularities to supervisor
  • Prompt and regular attendance is required for this position
  • Other duties as assigned

Peripheral Duties:

  • Attend monthly safety meetings
  • Maintain and demonstrate good public relations
  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment, as required
  • Abide by all standards, conduct and policies, as stated in Employee Handbook
  • Help other team members accomplish tasks

OPERATOR II

  • Prepares KDHE reports and assures that plant meets all federal, state and local compliance requirements
  • Backwash filters each day (normally 2 daily)
  • Calibrate PH meter and perform plant tests on PH, chlorine, temperature and CT calculations
  • Change out/replace chemicals and log usage daily of all (polymers, chlorine, alum and carbon)
  • Respond to alarms and calls in a timely manner
  • Maintenance on Water towers, storage tanks and pump stations
  • General cleaning of all buildings, pipes and equipment
  • Work in “on call” rotation
  • Prompt and regular attendance is required for this position
  • Other duties as assigned

Peripheral Duties:

  • Attend monthly safety meetings
  • Maintain and demonstrate good public relations
  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment, as required
  • Abide by all standards, conduct and policies, as stated in Employee Handbook
  • Help other team members accomplish tasks













































WORK ENVIRONMENT
While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in outside weather conditions, including temperature extremes. The employee may regularly be exposed to fumes, odors, dirt, wetness, chemicals and toxins. The noise level in the work environment occasionally requires hearing protection.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying the position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by their supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.

The City of Augusta is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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