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Water Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

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Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

$17 - $23.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit: Environmental ... Tank cleaning, Hydro excavation, Vacuum loading, Line flushing, High-pressure water blasting ...

Action Enterprise

Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Equipment Operator Department: Direct Labor Location: Decatur, AL Business Unit: Environmental ... Tank cleaning, Hydro excavation, Vacuum loading, Line flushing, High-pressure water blasting ...

Polyplex USA LLC

Utility Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$20.50/hr

Utility Operator Pay Rates: Starting: $20.50 Top out at progression year 3 at $26.00 Polyplex ... Makeup air unit, Exhaust fans, Water softener, RO water system. Physical Requirements * Able to ...

GovernmentJobs.com

Field Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

Assists in digging graves and pumping water out of graves. * Maintains cemeteries (including ... Experience operating a tractor with attachments, weed eater, chainsaw, backhoe and other related ...

City of Madison, AL

Field Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

$19.79/hr

Assists in digging graves and pumping water out of graves. * Maintains cemeteries (including ... Experience operating a tractor with attachments, weed eater, chainsaw, backhoe and other related ...

City of Madison, AL

Field Operator

Madison, AL · On-site

$19.79/hr

Assists in digging graves and pumping water out of graves. * Maintains cemeteries (including ... Experience operating a tractor with attachments, weed eater, chainsaw, backhoe and other related ...

Polyplex Corporation Ltd.

Utility Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$20.50/hr

Utility Operator Pay Rates: Starting: $20.50 Top out at progression year 3 at $26.00 Polyplex ... Makeup air unit, Exhaust fans, Water softener, RO water system. Physical Requirements * Able to ...

City of Madison, Alabama

Field Operator

Madison, AL

$19.79/hr

Assists in digging graves and pumping water out of graves. Maintains cemeteries (including removing ... Experience operating a tractor with attachments, weed eater, chainsaw, backhoe and other related ...

GHD

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanization. GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate ...

GHD Group

Heavy Equipment Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

We are committed to solving the world's biggest challenges in the areas of water, energy and urbanization. GHD's Construction group has several openings for entry level Equipment Operators to operate ...

Bunge

Packaging Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$26.59/hr

The Packaging Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of packaging equipment ... Ability to work at heights, around water, or in confined spaces * Ability to work outdoors in all ...

Bunge North America

Packaging Operator

Decatur, AL

$26.59/hr

The Packaging Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of packaging equipment ... heights, around water, or in confined spacesAbility to work outdoors in all weather ...

Pick Your Part

Loader Operator

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check ... Use bucket to remove snow, spread stone and maintain grounds such as access roads, water drainage ...

Pick Your Part

Loader Operator

Huntsville, AL

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

Equipment operated may include wheel loader, car crusher, skid loader, forklift etc... * Check ... Use bucket to remove snow, spread stone and maintain grounds such as access roads, water drainage ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Decatur, AL

Water Operator information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Decatur, AL is $24.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $28.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are water operators?

Water operators are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment plants and distribution systems. Their main duties include monitoring water quality, ensuring safe and efficient operation of water treatment processes, performing routine maintenance, and complying with environmental and public health regulations. Water operators play a crucial role in providing safe, clean drinking water to communities and may work for municipal utilities, private companies, or industrial facilities.

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 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 popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Decatur, AL? For Water Operator jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Water Operator job openings:
Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,901 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Waste Water Operator- Grade II ADEM CERTIFICATION REQUIRED (56473)

Waste Water Operator- Grade II ADEM CERTIFICATION REQUIRED (56473)

Clearwater Solutions, LLC.

Huntsville, AL

$21.50 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

CWS is an equal opportunity employer and affords equal opportunity to all applicants and employees for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other status protected under local, state or federal laws. 

Job Summary 

This person will be responsible for the operation, maintenance of the wastewater treatment systems in your assigned area.

Responsibilities 

  • Operates and maintains  wastewater treatment systems, including servicing of pumps, motors, valves, generators, and equipment 
  • Maintains collection lift stations 
  • Perform sample collection, preparation, and laboratory testing 
  • Maintain records, perform data entry, and provide detailed reporting 
  • Ensures completion of work assignments within specified deadlines and in compliance with Federal and State safety regulations and procedures 
  • Analyzes and evaluates pump equipment, trouble-shooting malfunctions, and monitoring of water operations 
  • Performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs of equipment and infrastructure 
  • Performs facility grounds maintenance including cleaning equipment and tanks 
  • Perform general landscape maintenance including mowing, trimming, clean-ups, pruning, and other typical landscape maintenance tasks 
  • Performs other related duties as directed 

Job Qualifications 

  • ADEM Grade II Certification REQUIRED
  • High school diploma or GED 
  • Prior or current wastewater operator
  • Valid driver’s license and acceptable Motor Vehicle Records required 
  • Experience within a waste water treatment environment 
  • Ability to work independently 
  • Strong attention to detail 
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. 
  • Requires the ability to read, write, compile, and analyze data and reports daily 
  • Ability to monitor control panels, gauges, and meters to ensure proper plant operation 
  • Must be available to work weekends, overtime and ‘on-call’ as needed  

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