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Water Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

ENVIROLINK

Operator- Water & Wastewater

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Team Member assigned to this position is responsible for executing municipal water and wastewater utility services, and the maintenance and operation of treatment, transmission and distribution ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator II, Wastewater

Cary, NC · On-site

$34.93/hr

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to ...

McAdams

Water/Wastewater Practice Lead

Raleigh, NC

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Develop Water/Wastewater Practice across the Southeast At McAdams, we invest in growth-minded leaders who are eager to build, innovate, and elevate those around them. We are looking for a Water ...

McAdams

Water/Wastewater Practice Lead

Durham, NC

$21 - $29/hr

Develop Water/Wastewater Practice across the Southeast At McAdams, we invest in growth-minded leaders who are eager to build, innovate, and elevate those around them. We are looking for a Water ...

McAdams

Water/Wastewater Practice Lead

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Develop Water/Wastewater Practice across the Southeast At McAdams, we invest in growth-minded leaders who are eager to build, innovate, and elevate those around them. We are looking for a Water ...

Blythe Construction Inc

Water Truck Driver

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

The Water Truck Driver will be running and operating a water truck which requires a Class 'A' CDL license with a tanker endorsement. The Water Truck Driver may also drive a tri-axle truck and trailer ...

Blythe Construction Inc

Water Truck Driver

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

The Water Truck Driver will be running and operating a water truck which requires a Class 'A' CDL license with a tanker endorsement. The Water Truck Driver may also drive a tri-axle truck and trailer ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Water Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$25

$39

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Raleigh, NC is $25.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $29.42 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 Raleigh, NC? For Water Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Water Operator job openings:
Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $52,781 per year, or $25.4 per hour.
Water Treatment Operator: Senior Leader

Water Treatment Operator: Senior Leader

ENVIROLINK

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

The Leader - Operations provides the leadership to effectively and efficiently distribute the resources of the company in the operation of the water and/or wastewater systems within his or her assigned jurisdiction.  Responsibilities may include any of the following functional areas: water supply, water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment, wastewater collection, wastewater disposal and storm water treatment systems.

  • Function as the Operator in Responsible Charge, perform the duties required to properly maintain and repair client or company water and /or wastewater systems in accordance with company policies and the rules of the State and Federal Governments;
  • Responsible for supervising tasks, staff and contractors on behalf of company;
  • Responsible for developing and maintaining client relations;
  • Responsible for personal development of each member of your team and themselves with an emphasis on the development of character, personal development, ability to obtain results, interpersonal skills, and ability to lead change;
  • Prepare and administer annual operating and capital budgets;
  • Manages the operation and maintenance related to the facilities under the position’s responsibilities with may include one or more of the following functional areas: water distribution, water treatment, wastewater treatment or wastewater collections;
  • Oversees the operations and maintenance of the water distribution, water treatment, wastewater treatment or wastewater collection facilities, including valves, water intake, wells, pumps, purification equipment, reservoirs, SCADA systems, motor control centers, automatic control valves and production meters;
  • Ensures the safety of all personnel, clients and customers in accordance with company policy and programs, as well as applicable regulation;
  • Works with staff & senior leadership to develop operational and capital budgets consistent with the mission and goals of the client and Envirolink;
  • Effectively manages operational and capital budgets for the facilities under your responsibility;
  • Communicates, both orally and written, with local officials, company leaders, company managers, and team members, customers, and others.
  • Organize the daily activities of the operation team in order to best meet service objectives, regulatory requirements and company goals;
  • Develops and implements preventive maintenance programs for various water and wastewater facilities; including pump efficiency tests, automatic control valves, motor control centers, gas engines, pump and chemical buildings and structures, fences and gates, lighting, landscaping, paving, testing and repair of production meters, etc.;
  • Act as liaison between Company and regulatory officials, and clients
  • US Citizen. E-Verification required;
  • No felonies or major misdemeanors;
  • Associate Degree in technical or scientific discipline. 
  • Prior leadership experience;
  • Possession of C-Surface license in the State of North Carolina
  • Knowledge of operational best practices;
  • At least Five (5) years in the water, and/or wastewater industry;
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills required including demonstrated fluency with reading, writing and speaking the English language;
  • Good math skills;
  • Must possess and maintain a valid State Driver’s License;
  • Envirolink, Inc. is a drug-free work place.  Initial and random drug testing is required.
  • Successful candidate must submit to pre-employment physical examination/medical history check;
  • Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check;
  • CPR and First Aid certification must be obtained within 12 months of date of hire.

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