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Water Operator Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Texas Roadhouse

Dishwasher

Decatur, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Operating the dish machine * Supervising proper rinse and wash temperatures * Changing water, storing, and using dish chemicals properly * Setting up and organizing the dish racks * Removing trash

Texas Roadhouse

Dishwasher

Forsyth, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Operating the dish machine * Supervising proper rinse and wash temperatures * Changing water, storing, and using dish chemicals properly * Setting up and organizing the dish racks * Removing trash

Kirby Medical Center

Maintenance Tech

Monticello, IL · On-site

$18.20 - $22.75/hr

... reliable operating condition. Performs preventive, predictive, corrective, and emergency ... water systems, and other life safety infrastructure. Monitors and responds to BAS alarms, conducts ...

Kirby Medical Center

Maintenance Tech

Monticello, IL · On-site

$18.20 - $22.75/hr

... reliable operating condition. Performs preventive, predictive, corrective, and emergency ... water systems, and other life safety infrastructure. Monitors and responds to BAS alarms, conducts ...

Kirby Medical Center

Maintenance Tech

Monticello, IL · On-site

$18.20 - $22.75/hr

... reliable operating condition. Performs preventive, predictive, corrective, and emergency ... water systems, and other life safety infrastructure. Monitors and responds to BAS alarms, conducts ...

DCC Propane, LLC

CDL Propane Driver

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

... water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently represented by a team of over 900 dedicated and passionate professionals who live and work in 22 states operating ...

DCC Propane, LLC

CDL Propane Driver

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

... water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently represented by a team of over 900 dedicated and passionate professionals who live and work in 22 states operating ...

DCC Propane, LLC

CDL Propane Driver

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$25 - $26/hr

... water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently represented by a team of over 900 dedicated and passionate professionals who live and work in 22 states operating ...

DCC Propane, LLC

CDL Propane Driver

Lincoln, IL · On-site

... water conditioning services since 1962. We are continuing to grow and are currently represented by a team of over 900 dedicated and passionate professionals who live and work in 22 states operating ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Decatur, IL

Water Operator information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$12

$25

$39

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Decatur, IL is $25.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $29.38 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

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Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Decatur, 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 $52,667 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

HIGHWAY MAINTAINER - SNOW REMOVAL OPERATOR-DISTRICT 5

State of Illinois

Clinton, IL • On-site

$27.79/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

State Of Illinois rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 58246 
Opening Date: 08/24/2026

Closing Date: 09/04/2026
​Agency: Department of Transportation
Class Title: HIGHWAY MAINTAINER - 18639 
Salary: $27.79 Hourly
Job Type: Hourly
Category: Part Time TEMPORARY ON-CALL
County: DeWitt; Champaign; Douglas; Edgar; McLean; Piatt; Vermilion
Number of Vacancies: 65
Bargaining Unit Code: Non Bargaining Unit  

Position Locations: 

Monticello Team Section, 676 E. Old Route 47, Monticello, IL 61856 (Piatt County)

Clinton Team Section, 6121 State Highway 54, Clinton, IL 61727 (Dewitt County)

Bloomington Team Section, 2621 S. Veterans Parkway, Bloomington, IL 61701 (McLean County)

Towanda Team Section, 203 Old Route 66, Towanda, IL 61776 (McLean County)

Leroy Team Section, 503 South East St., LeRoy, IL 61752 (McLean County)

Paris Team Section, 13473 IL Hwy 133, Bldg. B, Paris, IL 61944 (Edgar County)

Tuscola Team Section, 1200 E US Highway 35, Tuscola, IL 61953 (Douglas County)

Fithian Team Section, 1518 E. 1800 North Road, Fithian, IL 61844 (Vermilion County)

Danville Team Section, 510 Ave. C, Danville, IL 61832 (Vermilion County)

Champaign Team Section, 201 Eisner Rd., Champaign, IL 61822 (Champaign County)

Leverett Team Section, 160 E. Leverett Rd., Champaign, IL 61822 (Champaign County)

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking to hire temporary Snow Removal Operators for the 2026/2027 Snow and Ice Season. The Snow Removal Operators (hourly snowbird) performs a variety of tasks related to the maintenance, repair and upkeep of roads, bridges and other related structures and features. 

Essential Functions:
  • Operates CDL Class A or B licensed vehicles.
  • Assists in emergency snow and ice control.
  • Assists in servicing, washing, and making minor repairs of equipment such as trucks, tractors, snowplows, salt spreaders, compressors, graders and other light highway equipment.
  • Performs routine housekeeping duties and other tasks associated with the general care of the headquarters grounds.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of those enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Requires knowledge, skill and mental development equivalent to the completion of four years of high school.
  • For seasonal employees only, possession of a Class B CDL with appropriate endorsements, to include X or N and no airbrake restrictions, is acceptable for a period of two years. At the beginning of the third year from the initial hire date, a seasonal employee must possess a Class A CDL with appropriate endorsements, to include X or N and no airbrake restrictions.
  • Requires one year driving experience immediately preceding appointment free of incidents which could result in license suspension or revocation.
Conditions of Employment:
  • Requires successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, a pre-employment physical examination, a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening as well as on-going random drug and alcohol screenings.
  • Requires the ability to perform arduous labor outdoors in a variety of adverse conditions including, but not limited to, hot, cold, wet, windy, muddy, confined spaces, active construction sites, climbing steep terrain, roadways open to traffic and wading in water while dealing with adverse environmental conditions such as poisonous plants, animals, insects, rodents and snakes.
  • Requires the ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions while maintaining productive working relationships.
  • This position is considered medium work as defined by the US Dept. of Labor (20 CFR 404.1567(c)). Medium work involves lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Operations employees are subject to call at any hour of the day or night on any day of the year in order to respond to emergencies outside of normal work hours. As a result, negotiated rate employees are required to work reasonable amounts of overtime when necessary. Any bargaining unit employee who may be required to engage in a call out shall respond to the call as quickly as practicable but in no situation can the response time exceed 45 minutes.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

About the Agency

The IDOT team works diligently to provide safe, cost-effective transportation for Illinois in ways that enhance quality of life, promote economic prosperity and protect our environment. We are problem solvers and leaders, constantly searching for innovations and improvements in support of our commitment to providing the best multimodal transportation system for Illinois.

Our team fosters a culture of inclusivity. We value diversity and hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards as we work together for a common purpose. Team members frequently collaborate with colleagues and others outside the department to best meet customer needs. 

We invite qualified applicants to apply to become part of our team. We are confident that you will take pride in serving Illinois and its residents and visitors.

Work Hours:  As needed, Non-Permanent, Non-Benefit / On-call (October 16 – April 15, dates are dependent on weather)

Agency Contact: District 5 Personnel at: DOT.D5WinterApplications@illinois.gov or 217/466-7326

Posting Group: Transportation; Public Safety 

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the “Apply” button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.

Seasonal and temporary workers should use a personal e-mail address when applying for jobs.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Social media

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