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Water Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Ecolab

Water Treatment Operator III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$31.61 - $47.41/hr

Nalco Water, an Ecolab company, is looking for a Water Treatment Operator to join our industry leading Nalco Water team. You will be joining a talented team that is responsible for performing all ...

Ecolab

Water Treatment Operator III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$31.61 - $47.41/hr

Nalco Water, an Ecolab company, is looking for a Water Treatment Operator to join our industry leading Nalco Water team. You will be joining a talented team that is responsible for performing all ...

Concerto

Water Installation Technician

Lincolnwood, IL · On-site

$25 - $38/hr

The Installation Technician plays a critical role in ensuring our dialysis water treatment systems are installed, maintained, and operating safely and efficiently. This position partners closely with ...

Veolia

HHW Technician - Part Time

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$19.25 - $26/hr

Company Description 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 ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Water Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Chicago, IL is $26.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $31.25 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Water Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Water Operator job openings:
Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,978 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Water/Wastewater Operator - Mill Creek

Lake County, IL

Libertyville, IL • On-site

$25.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Salary: $25.39 Hourly
Location : Old Mill Creek, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 03064
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 07/31/2026
Closing Date: 8/30/2026 11:59 PM Central
General Description
Lake County Public Works is a sewer and water provider to 40% of Lake County residents and owns, operates, and maintains more than 750 miles of pipe, three water reclamation facilities, more than 100 pump stations, an excess flow facility and a 1-mile-long levee. This Public Works position is to maintain and operate water and sanitary sewer plants.
This position works Monday through Friday from 7:00am - 3:30pm and must be available for occasional overtime duty, weekend duty and 24-hour call on a rotating basis.
Essential Functions
  • Daily logs of plant operations, including flow recordings from hydrant/pumps.
  • Perform preventative maintenance on equipment and facilities.
  • Daily inventory of chemical usage.
  • Maintaining and operating public water supplies, sanitary sewer systems and preventative/routine building and grounds maintenance.
  • Draw water samples for testing and perform basic chemical analyses of water.
  • Investigate and resolve any abnormal conditions in plant operations and investigate any complaints.

Knowledge Skills Abilities and Education Required
  • Good knowledge of methods, practices, materials, tools and knowledge of hazards and safety precautions involved in the operation and maintenance of public water supplies and/or water reclamation facilities.

Education and/or Other Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • At least one year of experience in the field of water and/or wastewater treatment operation is useful.
  • One-year probationary period with 2 years to acquire a Class IV Wastewater Operator's Certificate or a Class D Water Operator's Certificate, issued by the IEPA.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Possess a valid driver's license, supplemented by a satisfactory driving record.
  • Requires the ability to perform basic mechanical repairs.

Physical Requirements:
  • Performs medium to heavy work that involves walking, standing, stooping, lifting, and digging
  • Pushing and raising objects also involves exerting between 20 to 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis and 50 to 100 pounds of force on an occasional basis.

Supplemental Information
Lake County offers a competitive salary and benefit package. We also offer flexible working hours, and a comprehensive wellness and training program. Visit our page to get additional information on why you should work for Lake County!
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screening, drug and alcohol testing and may include a pre-employment medical exam.
Lake County is committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
The County offers an extensive benefits package to eligible employees including health, dental, vision, life insurance, pension, deferred compensation plans, and so much more! Below are resources for the County's current benefits.
You can find additional details on our benefits at and

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