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Water Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

ENVIROLINK

Water Treatment Operator (ST II)

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Team Member in this position is responsible for the maintenance and operation of wastewater collection and water distribution systems and equipment. The incumbent will perform routine to complex ...

Fred Smith Company

Water Truck Driver

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/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 ...

SMITH ROWE, LLC

Water Truck Driver

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/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 ...

New

Blythe Construction

Water Truck Driver

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/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 ...

Blythe Construction Inc

Water Truck Driver

Raleigh, NC

$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 ...

Greenscape

Water Truck Driver

Durham, NC

$15 - $17/hr

Ability to operate various watering equipment, performing labor functions, installations, etc * Pay ... operating across the Triangle Region of North Carolina. Established in 1979, today we employ over ...

Greenscape

Water Truck Driver

Durham, NC · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Ability to operate various watering equipment, performing labor functions, installations, etc * Pay ... operating across the Triangle Region of North Carolina. Established in 1979, today we employ over ...

Barnhill

Water Truck Driver

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

Operating a water truck but not limited to that type of truck. * Must be able to perform pre-trip inspection of truck. * To lay down the required amount of water for the different operations ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 7, 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 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.
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Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,781 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Water Treatment Plant Operator - Shift Position

Johnston County, NC

Smithfield, NC • On-site

$49K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Salary : $49,735.94 - $84,551.11 Annually
Location : Johnston County Public Utilities, NC
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 02665
Department: Public Utilities
Division: Water Treatment
Opening Date: 09/01/2026
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Johnston County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Description
The mission of the Johnston County Public Utilities Department is to provide citizens of Johnston County efficient, affordable, and friendly services of water supply, wastewater collection and treatment, reclaimed water, stormwater management.
We are actively hiring for a Water Plant Operator. This position is a 12:00 AM (midnight) to 12:00 PM (noon) shift. Must be available to work every other weekend and various holidays.
Water treatment plant and system operators treat contaminated water so that it is safe to drink. Pumped from wells, rivers, streams, and reservoirs to water treatment plants, water then undergoes a series of processes that remove or destroy harmful materials and microorganisms. System operators ensure that the purification process goes smoothly and efficiently. To do this, water treatment plant and system operators control high-tech equipment, such as control pumps, valves, and computers that move the water through the numerous treatment processes.
Operators are responsible for testing the water at various stages of treatment; interpreting and adjusting meters and gauges; and performing chemical and biological laboratory analyses. Advanced computer technology has provided operators with a valuable tool in monitoring equipment, testing the water for harmful materials, and troubleshooting problems in the treatment process. Water treatment plant and system operators must follow the water pollution standards set by the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act. In the Clean Water Act, the federal government strictly controls the discharge of pollutants in the water supply. The Safe Drinking Water Act sets standards for drinking water. Because new contaminants are added to the prohibitions on a regular basis, operators must be familiar with all federal and local regulations, laws, and standards regarding the quality of drinking water.Pay is dependent upon experience and increases with certification.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Operates all equipment necessary to regulate the flow of water through hydropower and water treatment plant processes, including (but not limited to) those related to conventional treatment (with ozone disinfection) and management of residuals generated from such processes in order to meet production requirements and drinking water quality standards. Uses a plant supervisory control and data acquisition as an operating tool.
  • Computes chemical dosages and adjusts chemical feeders.
  • Monitors and controls the water supply, transmission and storage systems through a supervisory control and data acquisition system, and analyzes and acts accordingly to control flow through various transmission and distribution facilities or to take other actions as required.
  • Monitors operation of membrane treatment facilities, shuts down such facilities as necessary.
  • Performs such records and report functions as maintaining a log of plant operations, test results, maintenance work performed, and unusual operating conditions; works with computer equipment to maintain data base files and generate reports; makes periodic inspections and prepares reports as required.
  • Performs a variety of laboratory tests to determine plant process performance and compliance with water quality regulations.
  • Maintains laboratory equipment in clean condition.
  • Orders operating supplies and chemicals as needed and assists in the safe unloading and storage of chemicals.
  • Takes regular inventories of chemicals and other supplies used during the operation of water facilities.
  • Works with hazardous chemicals relating to water treatment.
  • Receives training and responds to hazardous chemical spill events and District facilities.
  • Makes equipment adjustments, lubrications and minor repairs.
  • Participates in major plant repairs.
  • Learns and receives training in advanced operational and technological developments in the water industry, as well as other training, including safety and environmental compliance.
  • Maintains the plant and operating equipment and facilities in a clean and orderly condition.
  • Performs routing housekeeping chores inside and outside the plant and conducts regular site safety inspections.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Working knowledge of the operation, maintenance, and cleaning of a water treatment plant and distribution system equipment and facilities.
  • Working knowledge of water treatment principles, methods, and practices.
  • Working knowledge of safety rules, codes, and regulations pertaining to the work.
  • Working knowledge of the methods and precautions in storing and handling chlorine and other hazardous chemicals.
  • Working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic principles, standardized water quality tests, routine facility and equipment maintenance and cleaning methods.
  • Skill in operating water treatment and distribution system equipment, including automatic control devices and use of computer for data base management.
  • Skill in performing minor maintenance and making operating adjustments to water treatment and distribution equipment.
  • Skill in operating plant equipment without immediate or detailed supervision.
  • Ability to recognize unusual, inefficient or dangerous operating conditions and take appropriate action.
  • Ability to accurately read and record data from gauges and meters.
  • Ability to read and interpret plant piping and distribution diagrams.
  • Ability to perform standardized water quality tests and adjust plant equipment accordingly.
  • Ability to compile, evaluate and analyze operational data and information and take or recommend, appropriate actions.
  • Ability to learn advanced processes and control techniques, and complex analyses of water quality.

Physical Requirements
  • The physical activity of this position includes climbing (ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles, and the like), balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, and hearing.
  • Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • The visual acuity requirements include color, depth perception and field of vision to perform data analysis, computer work, ready, visual inspection, reading measurement devices and assembly or fabrication of parts.
  • A Water Treatment Plant Operator is subject to both indoor and outdoor environmental conditions. The position is subject to noise, hazards (moving mechanical parts, electrical current, working on high places, exposure to high heat, exposure to chemical, etc.).
  • The position is subject to atmospheric conditions, such as fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases and may be required to wear a respirator at times.

Desired Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or its equivalent required
  • Specialized training (recent acceptable formal courses of instruction) in water treatment and plant operations.
  • Possession of C-Surface Water Treatment certificate by the State of North Carolina or the ability to obtain within 12 months of employment.
  • Valid NC driver's license required

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with the job. Other duties may be assigned.
Important Pre-Employment Information:
  • If the position requires a degree, official transcripts must be submitted within 30 days of hire.
  • A pre-employment reference check will be conducted.
  • A background check may be required and may include criminal history, motor vehicle records, sex offender registry checks, pre-employment drug screening, SBI fingerprinting, and, if applicable, a National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) check.
  • A conviction record does not automatically disqualify you from employment, unless otherwise required by state law. Each situation is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Johnston County provides a comprehensive, affordable insurance and benefits program.
Employees are offered a diverse selection of benefits including medical (no-cost for the employee plan), dental, life, and supplemental benefit coverages. Employees can also take advantage of our on-site wellness clinic and virtual telehealth program, both at no-cost!
Additional benefits include participation in the NC Retirement System, a 401(k) match option, generous paid leave and holiday schedule, tuition reimbursement, and more! To learn more, visit www.myjcbenefits.com
*This description applies to benefits eligible positions.
01
Do you have any water or wastewater operator's license?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Are you able to work on shifts as required?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have a valid NC Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Will you be able to serve on-call or emergency call-back duty?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have experience in water treatment processes, water chemistry and microbiology?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have experience working in or with a water treatment facility?
  • Yes
  • No

07
If you answered yes to the previous question, please describe your experience in detail, including dates of service. This information should also be listed on your application, Applications without verifiable experience shown may be rejected.
08
Please list all your current certifications.
09
Will you be able to meet the physical requirements for this position with or without reasonable accommodation?
  • Yes
  • No

10
Do you understand that only the work experience provided on the application itself is considered? (Any supplemental attachments to the application will not be used for determining qualification and salary.)
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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