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Water Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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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 ...

New

Industrial Wastewater Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Leading the Way in Water Management Inframark's Operations and Maintenance team is an award-winning ... JOB FUNCTION/PURPOSE The Wastewater Operator I is responsible for operation and maintenance of ...

Wastewater Process Operator

Olathe, KS · On-site

$23.75 - $29.14/hr

The water is recycled and returned as a clean resource into Cedar Creek and Mill Creek. Working for ... The Wastewater Process Operator I performs a variety of skilled computer, laboratory, and field ...

Water Treatment Operator

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$20.10 - $22.60/hr

Under the supervision of the Water Treatment Systems Supervisor, the Water Treatment Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring departmental equipment to effectively treat water prior to ...

Water Treatment Operator

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$20.10 - $22.60/hr

Under the supervision of the Water Treatment Systems Supervisor, the Water Treatment Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring departmental equipment to effectively treat water prior to ...

Water Treatment Operator activities includes the use of computer technology, sampling and laboratory analysis, operation of heavy equipment and vehicles, plant equipment, and field equipment. This ...

Water Treatment Operator activities includes the use of computer technology, sampling and laboratory analysis, operation of heavy equipment and vehicles, plant equipment, and field equipment. This ...

Water Maintenance Worker

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$20.10 - $30.15/hr

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 ...

Water Maintenance Worker

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$20.10 - $30.15/hr

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 Jun 17, 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.

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.
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Kansas? For Water Operator jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Water Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in KS? For Water Operator jobs in KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Kansas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,425 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Water Plant Operator

HR Partners

Louisburg, KS

Full-time

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Company: City of Louisburg
Title: 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 Plant Operator is a non-exempt position under FLSA which performs semi-skilled maintenance of the city water plant and for providing safe, quality water for the Marais Des Cygnes Public Utility Authority. This employee should possess strong technical and mental aptitude, and effective communication, organizational, and public relation skills..
Primary Accountabilities:
Major Duties:

  • Tests water quality by performing routine lab tests such as turbidity, pH, chlorine residual, alkalinity, and hardness.
  • Records daily plant data and maintain records
  • Maintains department equipment, such as pumps, motors, test equipment
  • Performs routine maintenance on water plant facilities and grounds
  • Operate and monitor treatment plant processes including coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, clarification, disinfection, chemical feed, and biological processes.
  • Adjust chemical feed rates to maintain process control.
  • Use SCADA, PLCs, and telemetry systems to monitor process variables, alarms, and system performance and respond to alarms promptly.
  • Performs mowing and groundskeeping duties for city properties
  • Ability and willingness to stay current with advanced technology through employer provided training and/or formal classes
  • Is part of an on-call rotation for department.
  • Flexible and able to support additional areas as needed.
  • Must have a valid Kansas driver’s license
  • Drug/Alcohol screening required
Secondary Duties:
  • Maintain department vehicles and equipment
  • Operates mowers and other lawn equipment
  • Work on water lines within the plant
  • Performs other duties as deemed necessary or assigned
  • Performing general housekeeping, cleaning, painting, and minor landscaping tasks.
Required Qualifications:
  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is required. A technical degree or some college credit is preferred. Class II Water Operator license preferred or the ability to obtain a Class II Water Operator certification within two years of employment.
  • Experience: One year of job-related experience is preferred but not required. Employee is expected to have acquired the necessary information and skills to perform the job reasonably well within one year of employment
  • Technical Skills: Knowledge of mechanics and mathematics is required. This employee will operate pumps, motors, chemical test equipment, and tractors. The ability to understand and anticipate problems, to prepare reports and other documents, to interpret data, and to read and interpret oral and written instructions is required. This employee should possess excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Problem Solving: Independent problem solving is involved in this position. This employee encounters problems while troubleshooting mechanical, chemical, electrical problems, equipment malfunctions, adverse weather, and, water leaks.
  • Decision Making: Independent decision making is involved in this position. This employee makes decisions about prioritizing safety, daily assignments and performing daily duties in the most efficient manner.
  • Supervision: This employee is subject to supervision from the Water Plant Supervisor and has no supervisory duties.
  • Financial Accountability: This employee is responsible for department equipment, has no authority to purchase necessary supplies and resources, and does not participate in the annual budget process.
  • Personal Relations: Daily contact with the general public, co-workers, and supervisory personnel is required.
On-Call Duties:
  • Employee may be required to perform on-call duties during the week and on weekends.
Physical Demands:
  • Manual labor including lifting and carrying heavy objects, standing, walking, sitting, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, climbing, kneeling, stooping, talking, hearing, and the ability to operate equipment is frequently required in this position.
Work Environment:
  • Adverse working conditions exist within this position. Exposure to hazardous chemicals, human blood and fluids, heavy machinery, excessive noise, work in confined spaces, heights, and all types of weather conditions is expected..
Additional Duties:
Additional duties and responsibilities may be added to this job description at any time. The job description does not state or imply that these are the only activities to be performed by the employee(s) holding this position. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related responsibilities as requested by their supervisor.
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