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Water Operator Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Reno, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Reno, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Reno, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Reno, NV

$21.75 - $30/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$20.75 - $28.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Overview Kimley-Horn is actively looking for a Practice Builder to expand our Water/Wastewater and Water Utilities practice in Las Vegas, Nevada. As a Practice Builder at Kimley-Horn you will serve ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Overview Kimley-Horn is actively looking for a Practice Builder to expand our Water/Wastewater and Water Utilities practice in Las Vegas, Nevada. As a Practice Builder at Kimley-Horn you will serve ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Las Vegas, NV

$20.75 - $28.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Overview Kimley-Horn is actively looking for a Practice Builder to expand our Water/Wastewater and Water Utilities practice in Las Vegas, Nevada. As a Practice Builder at Kimley-Horn you will serve ...

Kimley-Horn

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Kimley-Horn is actively looking for a Practice Builder to expand our Water/Wastewater and Water Utilities practice in Las Vegas, Nevada. As a Practice Builder at Kimley-Horn you will serve clients by ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Nevada

Water Operator information

See Nevada salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Nevada is $26.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $30.87 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 Nevada?

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

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

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

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

The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Nevada are:

What cities in Nevada are hiring for Water Operator jobs?

Cities in Nevada with the most Water Operator job openings:

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

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

Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Nevada as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,291 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Kimley-Horn

Reno, NV • On-site

$21.75 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago

Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 449 rated engineering

Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn has an opportunity for a motivated Practice Builder to expand our Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice in Reno, Nevada. As a Practice Builder at Kimley-Horn you will serve clients by winning and delivering exceptional work, managing projects profitably, and mentoring the next generation. This position offers extensive autonomy to lead, direct, and scale the practice with a forward-thinking approach.

Responsibilities
  • Manage, lead, and expand practice teams for multi-discipline projects and programs of work in the fields of water/wastewater treatment projects, water and wastewater pumping systems, and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection)
  • Has an entrepreneurial spirit and create a vision for growth for the local water resource practice and beyond
  • Given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business
  • Leadership responsibilities include:
    • Operating with integrity and sound business principals
    • Providing vision, business planning and strategy
    • Establishing goals
    • Building and maintaining positive client relationships
    • Having open communication with your partners and team
    • Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice
  • Our Project Managers/Practice Builders manage their projects profitably, transition work to qualified staff, grow and mentor staff, and act as a positive leader and mentor
  • The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business
  • With success, this individual will enjoy the rewards of an impressive bonus program with the potential to advance to ownership
Qualifications
  • 8+ years of civil engineering, design, and management of utility water projects experience
  • Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) license 
  • Client contacts and relationships with local municipalities, area counties, water management authorities and local, regional, state agencies
  • Business development skills and the proven ability to win work
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and technical skills
  • Strong desire and ability to be engaged with clients solving project problems
  • Ability to effectively communicate positively at all levels of the organization
  • Ability to manage and mentor staff and direct resources effectively in a positive manner
  • Demonstrated ability to manage projects profitably
Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967

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