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Water Operator Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Emery Sapp & Sons, Inc

Water Truck Driver

Joplin, MO · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

This position plays a critical role in supporting roadway construction operations by safely operating a water truck for dust control, compaction support, and site maintenance. When not driving, this ...

New

City of Charlotte

$25 - $28.50/hr

Charlotte Water's FY 27 operating budget is $685.6 million and a five-year capital program of $2.5 billion. PLEASE ATTEND: Candidate Preparation Day When: Tuesday, August 11, 2026 Where: NC Works ...

Veolia

Walk-In Interview Days

Kansas City, MO

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Enviri Corporation

Walk-In Interview Days

Kansas City, MO

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Enviri Corporation

Walk-In Interview Days

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

City of Kansas City Missouri

Water Servicer

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$22.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The department is responsible for maintaining and operating extensive systems for water collection, treatment, and distribution, serving more than 170,000 residential and business customers, as well ...

City of Kansas City Missouri

Water Servicer

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$22.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The department is responsible for maintaining and operating extensive systems for water collection, treatment, and distribution, serving more than 170,000 residential and business customers, as well ...

Woodard & Curran

Water Distribution O&M Technician

O Fallon, MO · On-site

$25.50 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As well as operating a variety of heavy equipment such as excavators, track loaders, vac-trucks and backhoes. You will also be welding and fabricating parts and tools, repairing water mains ...

Woodard & Curran

Water Distribution O&M Technician

O Fallon, MO · On-site

$25.50 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As well as operating a variety of heavy equipment such as excavators, track loaders, vac-trucks and backhoes. You will also be welding and fabricating parts and tools, repairing water mains ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Missouri

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.
More about Water Operator jobs

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 are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Missouri?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for 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:

Water Operator jobs near you
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.

Equipment Operator I - Water Distribution

City of Branson

Branson, MO • On-site

$25.66/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

 Now Hiring An Exceptional Equipment Operator! 
Join a dedicated team that maintains and repairs the City's water infrastructure
while operating heavy equipment and helping ensure reliable service for our community.

WORK HOURS:        Mon-Fri 7:30 Am to 4:00 Pm; Some After Hours Req week
WORK LOCATION:  In and around the City of Branson, Missouri; This position requires work to be performed onsite. 

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION AND, TRAINING REQUIRED
  • A High School diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Four (4) years of experience in sewer collection, water distribution operations and maintenance, heavy equipment operation, or water and sewer system construction, or closely related work. 
MISCELLANEOUS REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must possess a Missouri level "II" Water Distribution Certificate of Competency.
  • Must possess a Class A Commercial Driver's License with Air Brake endorsement and must be insurable under the City of Branson's motor vehicle coverage when operating a vehicle as a part of the position. 
  • Must possess no felony convictions at any time while employed by the City of Branson.
  • Must maintain facial hair in a manner that allows for a proper seal and safe use of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) or other respirator devices, if needed, in accordance with City procedures.  
  • Must be able to pass background investigation, physical capability examination, a pulmonary fitness (PFT) screening, and drug and alcohol screenings.

COMPLETE JOB DESCRIPTION:  Please click on this link for the full job description. Or go to https://bransonmo.gov

Why You'll Love Working Here:  We offer more than just a paycheck — we invest in you!  Enjoy great benefits like:

  • Medical, dental, and vision plans
  • LAGERS retirement benefits
  • Life insurance
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and 13 holidays
  • Cox Fitness Center individual membership -- AquaPlex family pass
  • Tuition reimbursement and paid training

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:  The starting hourly wage is $25.66 per hour and will increase to $26.69 per hour after 6 months of successful probation. 
                                                       Please click on this link for compensation/benefits information.


EEO 

The City of Branson provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and gender expression), national origin, ancestry, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, genetics, veteran status, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or any other characteristic protected by law. In addition to federal law requirements, the City of Branson complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. The City of Branson will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. All individuals hired will be required to provide documentation to establish identity and employment authorization as a condition of employment. The City of Branson is a tobacco-free workplace.