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Water Operator Jobs in Federal Way, WA (NOW HIRING)

Veolia

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29/hr

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 provider as well as ...

Clean Earth Holdings

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

New

Enviri Corporation

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Veolia

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Enviri Corporation

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Enviri Corporation

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Clear Creek Systems Inc

Water Treatment Technician

Pacific, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you will install and operate water treatment systems with capacities up to 4,000 ... Valid forklift operator certification is preferred. If you do not have one, the company may provide ...

Enviri Corporation

Maintenance Mechanic

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$26.75 - $34.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Veolia

Environmental Technician I

Tacoma, WA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Project Leader

Sumner, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Project Leader

Sumner, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Enviri Corporation

Maintenance Mechanic

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$26.75 - $34.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Enviri Corporation

Maintenance Mechanic

Tacoma, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Veolia

Environmental Technician I

Kent, WA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Enviri Corporation

Environmental Technician I

Kent, WA

$23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

Enviri Corporation

Environmental Technician I

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 provider as well as ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Federal Way, WA

Water Operator information

See Federal Way, WA salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Federal Way, WA is $29.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $33.85 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

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For Water Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Federal Way, WA are:

What cities near Federal Way, WA are hiring for Water Operator jobs?

Cities near Federal Way, WA with the most Water Operator job openings:

Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Federal Way, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,636 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

CDL A Driver

Veolia

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$29/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

$5,000 Sign-On Bonus!

Veolia has acquired Clean Earth. As Clean Earth completes its integration into Veolia, recruiting and hiring for this role is being managed in partnership with the Clean Earth talent acquisition team. 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 provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It offers a full spectrum of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. Veolia helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education, and municipal customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Veolia has more than 10,000 employees working at more than 350 locations across North America. 

Job Description:
We’re looking for experienced, professional CDL A drivers that will share our commitment to our people, partners and planet.
  • Traveling to locations on your assigned route, you will be responsible for packing, transporting, and properly disposing of waste material in accordance with our environmentally responsible policies and procedures.  
  • This position requires 1 overnight per week and occasional weekends, possibly 1 per month (with paid hotel expenses and a nightly per diem).
  • Pay starting at $29.00 hourly.

Qualifications:
Basic Requirements: 
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License.
  • By law, you must be at least 21 years of age. 

    Preferred Requirements: 
  • Hazmat and Tanker Endorsement (candidates will be expected to obtain as a condition of employment after hire) and any experience operating vac trucks, combo vehicles, and roll-offs.  
    As you will interact with customers and internal staff, fluency in English (verbal and written) will be important. 
The successful candidate will be required to pass a DOT physical, drug test and DEA background check.