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Water Operator Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

... the water treatment industry. This location is independently owned and operated. Your application will go directly to the owner, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this ...

Seed Conditioning Equipment Operator Bloomington, IL * Full-time, second shift * 2 openings $19-$22/hour + 15-17% profit sharing bonus (paid in December and August) + overtime during peak season ...

Seed Conditioning Equipment Operator Bloomington, IL * Full-time, second shift * 2 openings $19-$22/hour + 15-17% profit sharing bonus (paid in December and August) + overtime during peak season ...

Equipment Operator

Bloomington, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Taylor Corporation is looking for an Equipment Operator I to operate and maintain printing press equipment while producing high-quality work that meets customer requirements and production deadlines.

Amentum is seeking Heavy Equipment Operators to work on an as-needed casual status basis in East Peoria, IL. Work schedule may include any shift and any day of the week, based on business demand and ...

Amentum is seeking Heavy Equipment Operators to work on an as-needed casual status basis in East Peoria, IL. Work schedule may include any shift and any day of the week, based on business demand and ...

Amentum is seeking Heavy Equipment Operators to work on an as-needed casual status basis in East Peoria, IL. Work schedule may include any shift and any day of the week, based on business demand and ...

Plumber

Lincoln, IL

$31.51 - $48.83/hr

... operator. On site and hands on training will be provided by department leader to meet this ... Installs new plumbing pipe for water, steam, condensate lines, sewer, air, oxygen, vacuum, nitrous ...

Plumber

Lincoln, IL

$31.51 - $48.83/hr

In this position, one will be required to be an OSHA certified forklift operator. On site and hands ... Installs new plumbing pipe for water, steam, condensate lines, sewer, air, oxygen, vacuum, nitrous ...

Plumber

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$31.51 - $48.83/hr

In this position, one will be required to be an OSHA certified forklift operator. On site and hands ... Installs new plumbing pipe for water, steam, condensate lines, sewer, air, oxygen, vacuum, nitrous ...

Plumber

Lincoln, IL · On-site

$31.51 - $48.83/hr

... operator. On site and hands on training will be provided by department leader to meet this ... Installs new plumbing pipe for water, steam, condensate lines, sewer, air, oxygen, vacuum, nitrous ...

Dishwasher, PRN

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

Set up beverage carts with ice water and iced tea. * Presoak, sort, and organize silverware for ... Reaching, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, repetitive hand and wrist movements, and operating ...

Showing results 21-40

Water Operator information

See Normal, IL salary details

$12

$25

$39

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Normal, IL is $25.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $29.62 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.

What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Water Operator jobs?

Cities near Normal, IL with the most Water Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Normal, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,084 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Field Service Technician

Culligan

Lincoln, IL • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Culligan rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

408th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Medical insurance
  • Vacation, paid time off
  • Company-provided workwear, cell phone, tablet
  • Company-paid training
  • Additional Culligan Corporate Subject Matter Expert training offered
  • Employee discounts for Culligan in-home products
  • Eligibility for annual recognition and training meetings/events

Comprehensive training provided. We will teach you everything you need to know to launch your career in the high-growth water treatment business!
Culligan Water is seeking an individual to provide installation, service, and repair of Culligan products in homes and/or businesses. Our products include water softeners, drinking water systems and solutions for problem water.
The service technician provides repairs, upgrades, maintenance, and installations for Culligan equipment and products in customers' homes and/or businesses. The technician's goal is to provide the maximum amount of quality service to Culligan customers.
Responsibilities
  • Performing all diagnostics and analysis to troubleshoot and repair equipment in a timely and efficient manner
  • Installing, upgrading, and maintaining equipment
  • Completing paperwork related to tasks in an accurate and timely manner
  • Assisting other employees with the delivery and installation of products/equipment
  • Maintaining company vehicles, tools, and equipment
  • Communicating positively with customers and maintaining positive public relations for the company
  • Following all rules and regulations about safety and Culligan policies

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Plumbing experience is highly preferred
  • Minimum two years of installation and maintenance experience preferred
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • May require lifting/moving equipment from 50-75 lbs

About Culligan
As the world's leading water experts, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality water solutions to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois, Culligan International offers technologically advanced, state-of-the-art water filtration products, including water softeners, water filtration systems, industrial water treatment solutions, drinking water systems, and whole-house filtration systems.
Compensation: $18.00 - $21.00 per hour
About Culligan
Great tasting water. Brighter future. Bigger job opportunities. Culligan is making a real difference in the lives of people all over the world by providing better, cleaner water through our suite of innovative products and exceptional customer service. Join the Culligan team. Apply for a job now.
Culligan provides healthy, delicious water for our customers in their homes, offices, businesses, and industrial facilities around the world. Our complete line of water softeners, water filtration systems, commercial and industrial water treatment solutions, drinking water systems, whole-house filtration systems and bottled water delivery options set the standard in the water treatment industry.
This location is independently owned and operated. Your application will go directly to the owner, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this location. All inquiries about employment at this location should be made directly to the location owner, and not to Culligan Corporate.

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