ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

ServiceMaster

Water Restoration Technician

Lexington, SC · On-site

$35K - $50K/yr

Training & development Position Overview Monitors, inspects and completes tasks for Water ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a ServiceMaster Clean ® franchisee. Your ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC

Water Operator information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$12

$24

$37

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Columbia, SC is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.13 and $28.03 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 Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Columbia, SC?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Water Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Water Operator job openings:

Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,232 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATOR

Columbia, SC • On-site

City of Columbia, SC
See more jobs at City of Columbia, SCexternal

$39K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Salary: $39,024.00 - $48,780.00 Annually
Location : Columbia, SC
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202400030
Department: UTILITIES
Division: WATER DISTRIBUTION & MAINT
Opening Date: 03/20/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Pay Grade: 107
Description
This position installs, tests, inspects, locates, troubleshoots, evaluates, maintains and repairs all components and assets associated with standard operational and maintenance practices of the water distribution system; operates, evaluates and maintains light and heavy equipment in operation and maintenance of the water distribution system; and performs related duties as required. The incumbent works within a general outline of work to be performed, and develops work methods and sequences under general supervision.
The work is considered medium-to-heavy in nature and involves walking, standing, stooping, lifting, digging, pushing or raising objects and involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a recurring basis and 50 to 100 pounds of force on an occasional basis. The work requires the following physical abilities to perform the essential job functions: balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, fingering, handling, hearing, kneeling, lifting, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, talking, visual acuity, and walking.
Work environment may involve exposure to bright/dim light, dusts and pollen, extreme heat and/or cold, wet or humid conditions, extreme noise levels, vibration, fumes and/or noxious odors, traffic, moving machinery, electrical shock, heights, animals/wildlife, toxic/caustic chemicals, confined spaces, disease/pathogens, dangerous gases. Work involves light to heavy equipment and machinery that could result in bodily harm to co-workers or others. Safe and secure work environment that may periodically have unpredicted requirements or demands. Work is dynamic and requires sensitivity to change and responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs.
Essential Job Functions
  • Installs, tests, inspects, locates, troubleshoots, evaluates, maintains and repairs all components and assets associated with standard operational and maintenance practices of the water distribution system;
  • Operates, evaluates and maintains light and heavy equipment in operation and maintenance of the water distribution system;
  • Loads/unloads materials onto/from vehicles;
  • Operates light to heavy off-road equipment or trucks (e.g., dump trucks and other trucks, excavators, cranes, motor graders, bull dozers, bob cats, front-end loaders, skid steers, bush hogs, back hoes, compactors, trailers, tractors, low boys, or trenchers) to excavate or compact earth, load or unload materials, move or haul materials, install pipe, etc.
  • Maintains assigned trucks and equipment; performs cleaning, preventive and routine maintenance and simple repair work as required;
  • Uses hand and power tools in various manual tasks as required;
  • Performs general manual labor tasks as required;
  • Conducts analysis of water distribution system.
  • Inspects equipment to ensure proper and safe working condition; reports defects or required maintenance to the supervisor;
  • Maintains accurate and complete work records as required;
  • Prepares and submits detailed work records and reports;
  • Receives and responds to inquiries, concerns, complaints and requests for assistance in areas of responsibility;
  • Provides leadership to or assists co-workers with various duties as required.
  • Attends meetings, training, etc., as appropriate to enhance job knowledge and skills;
  • Performs all duties in accordance with applicable policies, procedures, laws, regulations, and standards of quality and safety;
  • May be required to work additional hours, holidays, weekends, nights and on-call rotation as needed in order to accomplish assigned work; and
  • Required to work on call rotation; and
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications to Perform Work:
  • High school diploma or GED;
  • One (1) year relevant prior experience.
  • Valid South Carolina Class "D" Driver's License.
  • Must obtain DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) medical examiner's certificate within thirty (30) days from date of hire;
  • Must possess or obtain a South Carolina Class "A" CDL within timeframe required in the CDL Program;
  • Must possess a LLR Water Distribution System Operator Class "D" License.
  • Able to demonstrate competency and complete the minimum requirements for
  • Operator D as defined in the Water Distribution System Operator Training Program within two (2) years of date of hire;
  • Must possess or obtain Asbestos certification, A Frame certification, and Trench and
  • Shoring certification within one (1) year from date of hire.

Pay grade will be dependent upon certification and work experience for applicants who possess Class "A, B, C or D" level of certification:
LevelPay GradeSalary RangeTrainee107$39,024.00
Operator Level "D"108$40,975.00 - $52,243.00Operator Level "C"109$43,024.00 - $54,855.50Operator Level "B"110$46,251.00 - $58,970.00Operator Level "A"111$49,720.00 - $63,393.00
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Ability to read routine sentences, instructions, regulations, procedures or work orders; writing routine sentences and completing routine job forms and incident reports; speaking routine sentences using proper grammar;
  • Knowledge of personal computer equipment with skill in doing data entry and in the use of Microsoft Office preferred 2000, utilizing Outlook, word processing and spreadsheet software programs preferred;
  • Ability to make decisions, requiring very few decisions affecting only the individual; works in a very stable environment with clear and uncomplicated written/oral instructions;
  • Knowledge of addition and subtraction, multiplication and division; ability to capture accurate measurements and calculate ratios, rates and percentages;
  • Knowledge of basic algebra involving variables and formulas and/or basic geometry involving plane and solid figures, circumferences, areas and volumes, and/or computing discounts and interest rates;
  • Ability to perform semi-routine work following procedures with occasional problems;
  • Ability to handle or use machines, tools or equipment requiring moderate instruction and experience, such as line locating devices, light off-road equipment; may repair power tools and light equipment;
  • Ability to perform routine work using common sense;
  • Ability to perform clerical, manual or technical tasks prescribed by standard practices but which may require computation, the use of several procedures, and the use of independent judgments with obvious choices; requires normal attention for accurate results;
  • Ability to compare or inspect items against a standard; and
  • Ability to follow instructions and orders of supervisor.

This position is not eligible for benefits.
01
Do you have a valid Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Apply