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Water Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Darling Ingredients Inc.

Waste Water Operator

Bastrop, TX · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Job Summary The Wastewater Operator controls water flows and processes through plant equipment and biological systems. Performs tests, maintenance, etc. to ensure proper operation of all wastewater ...

EPCOR

Water Operator I, II, or III

Lexington, TX · On-site

As a Water Operator II / III, you will be responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining advanced water treatment systems and supporting equipment. You will perform technical, laboratory ...

EPCOR

Water Operator I, II, or III

Lexington, TX · On-site

As a Water Operator II / III, you will be responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining advanced water treatment systems and supporting equipment. You will perform technical, laboratory ...

EPCOR

Water Operator I, II, or III

Lexington, TX

As a Water Operator II / III, you will be responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining advanced water treatment systems and supporting equipment. You will perform technical, laboratory ...

EPCOR

Water Operator I, II, or III

Lexington, TX

As a Water Operator II / III, you will be responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining advanced water treatment systems and supporting equipment. You will perform technical, laboratory ...

Southwest Water Company

Water/Wastewater Operator

Magnolia, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $25.75/hr

Overview The Water/Wastewater Operator performs routine checks of water and/or wastewater treatment systems; responsible for compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local rules/regulations ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Texas

Water Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$24

$37

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Texas is $24.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $28.22 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.
More about Water Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Texas?

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

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

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Cities in Texas with the most Water Operator job openings:

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

Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,586 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Waste Water Operator

Darling Ingredients Inc.

Bastrop, TX • On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Darling Ingredients rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

215th of 438 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Summary
The Wastewater Operator controls water flows and processes through plant equipment and biological systems. Performs tests, maintenance, etc. to ensure proper operation of all wastewater-related equipment. Other duties as assigned by the Plant Manager.
  • Work Schedule: Day Shift
  • Two Open Positions

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
  • Proper operation of the evaporator.
  • Proper operation of plant skimmer.
  • Chemical inventory and addition throughout wastewater treatment processes.
  • Perform wastewater test as needed.
  • Proper operation of DAF
  • Control flows throughout wastewater treatment processes
  • Daily clean foot valves and flow meters at pump stations.
  • Monitor MBBRs.
  • Service and Lube pumps and gearboxes as needed.
  • Help maintenance with projects or work in the area of responsibility.
  • Monitor aerators and mixers.
  • Proper operation of disinfection system.
  • Proper operation of all scrubbers and ancillary equipment.
  • Proper operation of cooling towers.
  • Apply chemicals to sustain a minimum of a 24-hour period.
  • Dumps a container of grease solids using a forklift.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum 1-year prior experience in a rendering facility or production environment.
  • Willing to obtain wastewater certificate.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Must be a self-starter and stay busy with constructive work with little supervision.
  • Good with math.
  • Good oral communication skills.
  • Good penmanship.

The information contained in this job description is intended to describe the essential job functions required of those assigned to this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the job. Please note that management retains the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. The ability to competently perform all the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, demonstrated commitment to effective customer service delivery, integrity, and the ability to work productively as a member of a team or work group are basic requirements of all positions at Darling Ingredients.
Darling Ingredients is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military service, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state and local law. Know Your Rights: If you would like more information, please click on the link and paste into your browser:
Working Conditions and Physical Demands
The physical demands and work environment factors described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the main duties of this job.
Working Environment
None
Occasionally = up to 20%
Frequently = 21% to 50%
Constantly = at least 51%
Exposed to unpleasant or disagreeable physical environments such as high noise level, strong odors, and/or exposure to heat and cold
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Exposed to bio hazardous conditions
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Exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals which mandate attention to safety considerations
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Exposed to Electrical hazards; risk of electrical shock
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Handles or works with potentially dangerous equipment
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Travels to offsite locations
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Other (please describe):
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Physical Demands
None
Occasionally = up to 20%
Frequently = 21% to 50%
Constantly = at least 51%
Sit: Must be able to remain in a stationary position.
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Walk: Must be able to move about inside/outside office or work location.
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Use hands to finger, handle or feel: Operates a computer and other office machinery.
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Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl: Must be able to position one's self to maintain computers in the lab, including under desks and in the server closet.
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Climb or balance: Must be able to ascend/descend on a ladder.
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Talk, hear, taste, smell: Must be able to use senses to; effectively communicate with co-workers and clients and detect hazardous conditions.
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Weight and Force Demands
None
Occasionally = up to 20%
Frequently = 21% to 50%
Constantly = at least 51%
Up to 10 pounds
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Up to 25 pounds
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Up to 50 pounds
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Up to 100 pounds
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More than 100 pounds
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Vision Demands
Required
No special vision requirements
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Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less)
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Distance vision (Clear vision at 20 feet or more)
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Color vision (ability to identify and distinguish colors)
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Peripheral vision
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Depth perception
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Ability to adjust focus
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