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Water Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Summary The Utilities Operator position is a position that must perform a variety of functions ... Monitors the operation of utility or waste water plant equipment for existing or potential problems ...

Water Damage Technician

Cary, NC · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

... O With over 500 locations across North America and Canada, PuroClean is leading the industry in ... caused by water, fire, mold, biohazard, and other conditions resulting in property damage. We ...

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 ...

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 ...

WATER TREATMENT PLANT MECHANIC

Cary, NC · On-site

$54K - $83K/yr

As a Mechanic/Operator, you will perform responsible technical and skilled work in the operation and maintenance of a water treatment plant including sampling and analyzing, regulating processes and ...

Maintains log of water treatment systems. * Keep work area clean, neat and orderly * Responsible for the operation of the demineralizer and associated equipment. * Lines up, starts, stops and secures ...

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Water Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$12

$25

$39

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 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 is the hardest part of being a water operator?

The hardest part of being a water operator is often managing emergency situations, such as equipment failures or water quality issues, which require quick decision-making and technical skills. Additionally, working in sometimes challenging environments and maintaining compliance with strict regulations can be demanding. Certification and ongoing training are essential to handle these responsibilities effectively.

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 jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Certain skilled trades and specialized roles such as water operators, commercial pilots, real estate brokers, and sales managers can earn $10,000 or more per month without a college degree, often requiring certifications, experience, or licensing. These jobs typically involve hands-on work, technical knowledge, or sales expertise and may require on-the-job training or industry-specific certifications.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Water operators typically do not earn $2,000 a day; their salaries usually range from moderate to high, depending on experience and location. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $2,000 daily often include specialized roles such as executive positions, certain medical professionals, or highly skilled contractors, but these are not typical for water operators. Most water operators earn annual salaries that are significantly lower than this daily rate.

Is it hard to become a water treatment operator?

Becoming a water treatment operator typically requires completing relevant training, obtaining a state certification, and gaining practical experience. The difficulty varies depending on local regulations and the level of certification required, but it generally involves passing exams and demonstrating knowledge of water treatment processes and safety protocols.

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 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:

Utility Operator

Endo International

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Operates utility and waste treatment equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements.

  • Monitors utility or waste water plant equipment for problems and corrects issues to ensure continuous operations.

  • Maintains complete and detailed operating reports, logs measurements, and generates records for regulatory compliance.


Job description

Why Us?
At Par Health, we believe great healthcare is built on getting the essentials right. We're looking for passionate, talented individuals who share our commitment to improving lives. With 4,000+ team members worldwide, we lead with pride and purpose-prioritizing quality and safety while fostering a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and teamwork. Elevating the Essentials isn't just our tagline, it's the higher standard we live by every day.
Job Description Summary
The Utilities Operator position is a position that must perform a variety of functions necessary to maintain continuous operation of Plant Utilities, such as but not limited to: steam production, condensate management, compressed air, cooling tower systems, chilled water systems, deionized water systems, electrical distribution, fire alarms and protection, land application program, HVAC systems, storm water ditches, recovery wells, fuel supply and the site Waste Water Treatment Plant. S/he will be responsible for maintaining accurate and complete records.
Job Description
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Issues safety permits for work performed in assigned area (safe work, hot work, confine space, etc.)
  • Operates utility or waste treatment equipment in a safe manner and in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs) and regulatory requirements.
  • Monitors the operation of utility or waste water plant equipment for existing or potential problems and corrects problems or malfunctions routinely using own judgment as needed to assure effective, compliant, and efficient continuous operations. Advises and assists others with process problems and conditions. Notifies supervision or leads as necessary for assistance with complex problems and conditions.
  • Makes routine chemical analyses of waste water treatment plant and record data. Takes corrective action in accordance with defined procedures and delivers necessary samples to lab as directed.
  • Maintains complete and detailed operating reports, including notes on unusual conditions. Logs measurements of utilities equipment or waste water plant on a routine basis. Generates records pertaining to regulatory compliance.
  • Must be able to wear the required the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as full face respirator, hard hats, safety glasses, ear plugs, goggles, boots steel-toe shoes, gloves, chemical resistant aprons and suits, and other PPE deemed necessary by EHS or standard operating procedures for each job task.

DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC/NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Other duties as assigned with or without accommodations.
  • Performs general housekeeping duties and keeps equipment in clean, working condition.
  • Assists in other department operations and special departmental assignments as necessary.
  • Serves as a member of various employee involvement teams and committees, such as Cost Savings, to improve the workplace, increase efficiency, and improve productivity.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Education:
High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
Experience:
Minimum 2 years experience in a manufacturing environment with basic knowledge of the operations of utilities equipment, e.g., boilers, boiler controls and troubleshooting, chilled water systems, cooling tower systems, deionized water systems, electrical distribution, compressed air systems, waste water plant, and fire security systems, HVAC systems.
Preferred Skills/Qualifications:
Other Skills:
Competencies:
Must have good verbal and written communication skills.
Must have strong computer skills, MS Office.
Must be self-directed.
Must be able to respond safely and effectively in an emergency.
Priority Setting, Problem Solving, Interpersonal Savvy, Written Communications
RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHERS/ SCOPE:
  • Reports to the Utilities Supervisor.
  • Interacts frequently with other utilities personnel, maintenance mechanics, electricians, outside contractors and inspectors, and other departments.
  • No direct responsibility exists for the work of others, although adherence to the team concept requires mutual assistance in some jobs.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • Exposure to heat, dirt, oil, grease, chemicals/chemical fumes, and noise.
  • Injuries could result from spills or leaks of corrosive, flammable, and toxic material, all which are normally handled in the plant. Must be able to wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) as assigned.
  • Must be able to go up and down several flights of steps and ladders on occasion. Must be able to kneel and stoop for extended periods of time.
  • Required to work rotating assigned shift and work occasional overtime as necessary.
  • Must be able to work with limited Supervision.
  • May be required to wear a full-face respirator contingent upon required job duties.

DISCLAIMER:
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this position.
EEO Statement:
We comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination and harassment, and provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information, or any other classification protected by federal, state or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.