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Water Operator Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Water Treatment Operator

Independence, MO · On-site

$29.25 - $35.74/hr

Water Treatment Operator Location: Lake City Army Ammunition Plant - Independence, MO Schedule: Weekend Nights: 3x12 F-SU (6p-6:30a, Friday, Saturday and Sunday with 4 hours worked on Thursday or ...

The Doe Run Company is seeking a Water & Sweeper Truck Operator to perform grounds housekeeping operations in order to maintain a safe, clean environment that meets environmental standards. This day ...

CLD B Driver

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$20.50 - $25.75/hr

Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology provider as well as ...

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Water Operator information

See Missouri salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Missouri is $24.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $28.41 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 are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Missouri?

The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Missouri are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Water Operator jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Water Operator job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,931 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

$31.75 - $40.52/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description NATURE OF POSITION Performs journeyman level operator duties of Group A, Class 3 Water Distribution System. Performs a variety of skilled duties related to the most significant and complex construction and maintenance repairs of the City's water operations systems. Works with assigned crew on projects such as meter maintenance and installation, leak repairs, flushing, valve exercising and fire hydrant maintenance; to include the operation of heavy equipment and the performance of manual labor.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED Supervision is provided by the Water Distribution Supervisor; general direction and oversight is provided by the Water Operator III and Lead Operator positions. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Employees of the City of Walla Walla are expected to model and foster the City's core values: Service - Integrity - Collaboration - Equity - Leadership - Community Provide exemplary customer service to all individuals; actively participate in maintaining a positive customer service environment. Perform underground excavation in residential and commercial areas including confined space entry; operate heavy equipment including wheel loader, backhoe, and excavator.

Perform responsibilities related to general water distribution operation and maintenance; flush and clean water distribution systems; install and repair fire hydrants. Install new meters including large meters; execute new and existing service assignments including meter repairs and replacements. Operate leak detection equipment including electronically enhanced listing devices; utilize underground electronic locator equipment, valve exercising equipment, and other tools used in system maintenance programs.

Perform welding for fabrication and repairs. Collect, capture, process, and report utility data using electronic work order software in combination with GIS mapping. Ensure the adherence to safe work practices and procedures by operations personnel.

Assist in training assigned water distribution operators in maintenance, repair methods and techniques; inspect work and recommend modifications as appropriate. Maintain detailed and comprehensive records and drawings related to the water distribution system operations, including installation, repair, and maintenance activities. Respond to public inquiries with tact and courtesy; provide information within the area of assignment; resolve complaints in an efficient and timely manner.

Participate in the inspection of the water distribution systems. Request City utility locates with 811 One Call Center, providing township, range, location, and type of work to be performed including start dates. May assist in locating underground City-owned utilities.

Respond to customer inquiries, complaints, and emergency calls; respond to service calls for main line breaks, service/meter leaks and system wide pressure and flow problems. Participate in the seven (7) day on-call rotation. Respond to emergency calls off-hours for operations and repair of the Water Distribution system.

May provide back-up services and/or assist other City Departments/Divisions. May be assigned responsibilities for Water Distribution Operator III in his/her absence. OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS Demonstrate punctual, regular, and reliable attendance which is essential for successful job performance.

Present a positive, professional image; maintain cooperative and effective working relationships; assure excellent customer service with internal and external customers. Execute assignments, projects, and job responsibilities efficiently and within defined timeframes; work independently and effectively with little direction. Demonstrate good judgment and employ critical thinking to execute duties, identify issues, seek solutions, and recommend improvements in support of departmental goals.

Provide assistance to staff and higher-level management; participate in resolving operational or interpersonal concerns; participate in training, meetings, and on committees as assigned. Respect the value of diversity in the workplace and the community. Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledge of applicable federal, state, local laws, codes, and regulations; occupational hazards and standard safe work precautions; safety measures related to excavation; precautions related to work in traffic. Demonstrate knowledge of public works water systems, underground water, power and street lighting systems, and understanding of the operational characteristics of water including gravity, pumped delivery, pressure control and reduction. Technical and analytical skills to operate specialized equipment including sensitive computerized instrumentation devices to extract data and accurately utilize device outputs for analysis.

Ability to coordinate logistics and navigate the layout of systems using Water Distribution, Sanitary Sewer, Street Lighting, and Stormwater mapping; read and interpret operational and technical manuals, maps, blueprints, drawings, and diagrams; prepare as-built drawings for atlas updates. Demonstrated knowledge of metal detectors; atmospheric tester tools; ability to operate GPS recording devices, meter testing, and chlorine residual analyzer equipment. Utilize software programs, electronic browsers, SCADA, and Computer Maintenance Management Systems; coordinate and implement new installations for water distribution systems.

Familiar with business management principles and able to perform administrative work including record keeping, reporting, and budget control, familiar with modern office procedures, methods, computers and standard office equipment operations. Diagnose and troubleshoot problems; independently perform difficult and complex tasks. Ability to operate and maintain hand tools, power tools and a variety of specialized equipment.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED A variety of hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment including valve exercising equipment, water pumps, hand pumps, and industrial gas-powered pump units. Electronic devices and sensitive equipment such as atmospheric testers and metal detectors. Heavy equipment vehicles such as dump trucks, backhoes, excavators, and wheel loaders.

Standard office equipment such as desktop and laptop computers, copiers, scanners, and phones. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Walking, standing, bending, or crouching or kneeling down for extended periods of time; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate specialized equipment and execute repetitive hand movements; Sitting for extended periods of time; seeing and hearing to identify information; speaking and writing to exchange information; pushing, pulling and lifting up to 75 pounds with assistance; operating assigned equipment and vehicles. WORK ENVIRONMENT Outdoor work environment exposed to seasonal conditions and inclement weather, including driving a vehicle to conduct work in all weather conditions.

Work may be performed around and within the proximity of moving objects including vehicles and related traffic hazards; excavations and confined space; dissatisfied or aggressive individuals. REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS High school diploma, GED or equivalent, and 12 months Water Distribution or Treatment Plant experience and an additional 24 months of direct water system related experience. Three years of heavy equipment operation in residential and commercial settings.

Valid state driver's license and proof of good driving record. Class A, CDL with air brakes and tanker endorsement. Valid State of Washington Department of Health Water Distribution Manager Level 2 certification.

Certificates in Competent Person for excavation and confined space. Any equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered that demonstrates possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS State of Washington Department of Health Water Treatment Plant Operator Level 2 certification.

Foreman or lead experience of a field crew in a water distribution system. Bilingual in Spanish. This organization participates in E-Verify, click the link below to view more information: Click here to see more information regarding E-Verify.