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Water Operator Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

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Water Operator information

See Nebraska salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Nebraska is $24.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $28.89 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.
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Nebraska? For Water Operator jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Nebraska are:
What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities in Nebraska with the most Water Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in NE? For Water Operator jobs in NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,770 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

$30.10 - $68/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


City Of Grand Island rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

482nd of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Perform unskilled and semi-skilled tasks in the maintenance, construction and repair of the water utility system; and perform a variety of other duties and responsibilities involved in distributing potable water throughout the City of Grand Island. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is the entry-level position in the water maintenance worker series. Employees at this level perform the most basic types of duties assigned to classes within this series receiving functional and technical direction from Senior Water Maintenance Workers and supervision from assigned Water Crew Chief.

Essential Functions Display honest, trustworthy, and ethical behavior when dealing with internal staff and external customers. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Regular attendance that is punctual and dependable is required.

Perform semi-skilled and assist in skilled tasks in the maintenance, construction and repair of water utility systems including: make service taps and set proper metering devices; locate lines and related equipment; Construct water lines and related installations according to proper grade and alignment; install and maintain fire service lines, hydrants, mains and valves. Train to operate and use a variety of equipment and machinery in the construction and maintenance of water utility lines including loaders, backhoes, tapping machines, dump trucks, box blades and pumps; maintain all tools and equipment. Assist in removal and installation water meters; provide assistance in the location of meters and water lines; assist in water service turn-off/ons.

Assist in installing and service smart meters. Perform utility locates and utilize the current 811 system. Observe all established safety standards while performing work including the wearing of safety apparel, proper placement of work barricades and warning signs and grounding of machinery and equipment.

Respond to service calls concerning water emergencies, water outages and various water service problems; work to reduce state of emergency and correct problems; Perform overtime duties as necessary or required to restore proper water system function. Assist in inventory of stock materials. Participate in stand-by duty as scheduled by supervisory staff.

Answer questions and provide information to the public; investigate complaints and recommend corrective action as necessary to resolve complaints. Participate in the inspection of work completed by outside contractors; locate underground water lines for other utilities or work crews. Perform related duties as assigned.

Qualifications Knowledge of: General construction practices and techniques Safe work practices. General construction materials Ability to: Utilize basic tools and equipment used in construction. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Understand and follow oral and written instructions. Interpret and apply Federal, State and local policies, procedures, laws and regulations. Perform work during adverse weather conditions.

Perform work in confined spaces Perform work with manual dexterity and coordination. Read and interpret maps, blueprints and utilize City GIS system. Participate in stand-by duty as scheduled by supervisory staff.

Supplemental Information Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: No experience required, but prior plumbing or utility construction experience is preferred. Training: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade.

Additional training in water distribution services, utility maintenance work or a related field is preferred. License or Certification: Employee must possess a valid driver's license and maintain insurability as determined by the City's insurance carrier. Click here to view our driver eligibility requirements.

Possession of, or ability to obtain and maintain, a valid Class A commercial driver's license within twelve (12) months of hire. Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid Grade IV Water Operator's License within twelve(12) months of hire. Salary: Position will start at the entry level of the City's salary table.

Consideration may be given if experience exceeds entry level qualifications. Working Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. On-call rotations which include evenings, weekends and holidays

Residency: All Distribution, Engineering, Dispatch, Transmission/Substation Division Personnel must live within 30- minute distance of 1116 W. North Front St, Grand Island, Nebraska. The shortest route available on Google maps will be used to determine commute time.

Exam: A mechanical aptitude exam will be administered to a selected amount of qualified candidates. Other: Candidates are subject to a background check.


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