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Water Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Water Operator FT

Washington, UT ยท On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a project-by-project basis.Supervision Exercised:NoneEssential Functions:Water: Operates various ...

Water Operator II

Payson, UT ยท On-site

$25.86 - $33.62/hr

Under the general supervision and direction of the Water Superintendent performs skilled work pertaining to the operations, maintenance and construction of the City's culinary water system.

Under the general supervision and direction of the Water Superintendent performs skilled work pertaining to the operations, maintenance and construction of the City's culinary water system.

Water Operator II

Payson, UT ยท On-site

$25.86 - $33.62/hr

Under the general supervision and direction of the Water Superintendent performs skilled work pertaining to the operations, maintenance and construction of the City's culinary water system.

Water / Sewer Operator

Pleasant Grove, UT ยท On-site

$23.83 - $33.37/hr

Responsibilities include daily operating a variety of equipment in the construction, operation, repair, maintenance, and replacement of City streets, right-of-way, and storm water drainage systems of ...

Water / Sewer Operator

Pleasant Grove, UT ยท On-site

$23.83 - $33.37/hr

Responsibilities include daily operating a variety of equipment in the construction, operation, repair, maintenance, and replacement of City streets, right-of-way, and storm water drainage systems of ...

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Water Operator information

See Utah salary details

$12

$23

$36

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Utah is $23.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $27.60 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 the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Utah? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Utah are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Utah look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Utah are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Water Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in UT? For Water Operator jobs in UT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,431 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Water Operator FT

Washington City

Washington, UT โ€ข On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Department: Public WorksDivision: OperationsSalary: Operator Level 1) $43,180 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience)Salary: Operator Level 2) $45,590 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience)Salary: Operator Level 3) $53,659 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience)Salary: Operator Level 4) $63,155 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience)General Purpose:Performs a variety of entry, apprentice level semi-skilled duties related to the construction, installation, maintenance and repair of the cities potable and non-potable water systems.Supervision Received:Works under general supervision of the Water System Supervisor and/or Treatment Supervisor. May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a project-by-project basis.Supervision Exercised:NoneEssential Functions:Water: Operates various types of equipment such as, rollers, compactors and trenching equipment; performs installation or repair of water service connections, water lines and meters; flushes, repairs or replaces fire hydrants and plugged water meters; repairs water mains; cleans and maintains storage tanks, cleans reservoirs; connects and disconnects service; searches out shut off valves; water line leaks; assists in placement of pipe and water regulators; removes, disassembles, cleans or replaces defective parts of regulators, adjusts pilot valves as needed to assure efficient water line service.Installs new water lines using pipe threaded, tapping machine, welder, pipe cutting saw, pipe and cable locator. tears out and repairs curb, gutter and street in locating and uncovering broken lines; builds meter boxes; builds extensions to raise or lower existing boxes as needed.Operates a variety of hand tools and small power equipment such as jack hammers, roller, compressors, packing machine, gopher, tamper, tapping machine; cleans tools and equipment to assure proper working order.Performs repairs and maintenance on pump stations, pumps, valves, wells, cleaning of reservoirs, etc.; monitors city water well storage levels; insures proper maintenance of electrical, pumping, chlorinating and storage equipment; maintains records of water lines, pumps and valves, storage levels, etc.Conducts water sampling and delivers to State-certified laboratory for analysis; monitors chlorine levels; tests water using DPD tester to assure proper chlorine residual levels; reads water flow meter, chlorine pound per day gauge; calculates chlorine dosage and makes proper adjustments.Installs water meters for new services; performs field and shop repairs on water meters, removes meter, disassemble, cleans and/or replaces defective parts, reassembles and tests to assure proper working order; sets blue stake markers.Participates in work zone safety procedures; flags on coming vehicles to protect the public and workers; sets up warning signs and signalization equipment.Performs general maintenance in the upkeep of facilities and equipment; paints water tanks, well buildings, floors, etc.; assures clean and functional work areas; operates high pressure steam cleaning equipment as needed.Performs other duties as required.Minimum Qualifications:Education and Experience:Graduation from high school;ANDOne (1) general work experience performing above or related duties;ORAn equivalent combination of education and experience.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Some knowledge of operating basic manual and power tools; the standard practices, methods, materials and tools necessary for pipe line construction and repair activities; pipe fitting procedures, pipe classifications and type; the occupational hazards and safety precautions of trench work construction and pipeline maintenance work; hazards common to heavy equipment operation; drain system construction methods etc.; interpersonal communication skills.Ability to operate heavy equipment of various kinds under varying conditions; make minor repairs on assigned vehicles, perform heavyphysical labor; develop and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, elected officials, local agencies and the general public;communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing; work from blueprints; tolerate weather extremes in the work environment; perform basic mathematical computations in reading and using various meters, gauges and related devices.Special Qualifications:Must possess a valid commercial drivers license. Must be able to lift 50-75 pounds. Must be willing to work on-call duty and 24-hour standby. Within twelve (12) months, must become a certified flagger. Within 12 months, must become a certified state Water System Operator level I,Work Environment:Tasks require variety of physical activities, generally involving muscular strain, such as walking, standing, stooping, sitting, and reaching. Talking, hearing and seeing essential to performing required job functions. Common eye, hand, finger dexterity exist. Mental application utilizes memory for details, verbal instructions, emotional stability and discriminating thinking.Benefits:Washington City provides full time employees with an excellent benefit package including a healthcare plan (no out of pocket expense for employee/dependent coverage), dental plan (no out of pocket expense for employee, out of pocket expense for dependents only), and a vision plan (no out of pocket expense for employee/dependent coverage). In addition, the City provides a $50,000 life insurance policy, AD&D, LTD, and an impressive retirement plan. Washington City also contributes 4.5% into a 401(K) plans for all eligible employees that are in the public employee fun. All benefits are effective on the1st day of work. The City also provides 12 paid holidays, 12 paid sick days per year plus vacation accruals.It is the policy of Washington City to comply with Equal Employment Opportunity standards in all phases of personnel administration: job structuring, recruitment, examination, selection, appointment, placement, training, upward mobility, discipline, discharge, etc, without unlawful regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, physical or mental disability, national origin or veteran status.As per Washington City policy and/or procedures, a background check, and drug screening evaluation will be required for potential new hire candidates prior to an offer of employment. I understand that if I am under the age of 18, I must have my parent or my legal guardian grant their permission for the background check and drug screening test to be performed.
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