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Water Operator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

AECOM

Water Resources Project Manager

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

As a Water Resources Project Manager, you will lead technical design teams in creating conceptual ... ponds, operating ponds, spillways, rock drains, and haulage/access/circulation roads. Designs ...

AECOM

Water Resources Project Manager

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

As a Water Resources Project Manager, you will lead technical design teams in creating conceptual ... ponds, operating ponds, spillways, rock drains, and haulage/access/circulation roads. Designs ...

Sandia Resort and Casino

UTILITY OPERATOR 2

Bernalillo, NM · On-site

$28.21 - $31.73/hr

Collects tests and preserves water and wastewater samples for chemical and biological properties. * Calibrates laboratory equipment, flow meters and chemical feed equipment as required by operating ...

The Pueblo of Sandia

UTILITY OPERATOR 2

Bernalillo, NM · On-site

$28.21 - $31.73/hr

Collects tests and preserves water and wastewater samples for chemical and biological properties. * Calibrates laboratory equipment, flow meters and chemical feed equipment as required by operating ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Water Operator information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Rio Rancho, NM is $24.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.57 and $28.65 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 the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Water Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Water Operator job openings:
Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,381 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Water Restoration Associate

ServiceMaster Restore 6173 - Azusa

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance
  • Wellness resources

Great opportunity for a new career!
Position Overview:

Assists Water Restoration Technician/Lead in monitoring, inspections and completes tasks for Water Restoration jobs to ensure completion of drying, demolition and various restoration activities. Assist in the preparation of review documents to include notes, photos and documents according to company policies and procedures to ensure reimbursement from insurance companies. Assists Water Restoration Tech in the processes used to complete active jobs and next steps to resolution in person to customers.
Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities:

Performs water/fire/smoke damage and mold remediation repair as directed by supervisor to include water extraction, pack-out of contents, removing/disposing of non-salvageable materials, cleaning, light construction and demolition
Sets up and monitors air movers and/or dehumidifiers
May perform other cleaning duties (i.e., construction cleaning, fire/smoke/odor cleaning, mold remediation, carpet and upholstery cleaning, etc.) when part of mitigation or restoration jobs
Reports any equipment malfunction to supervisor
Reports any customer problems or damage to supervisor
Completes assigned job tasks according to company processes while maintaining quality control on each job
Assists Water Tech/Lead with work orders, checking routes for travel, ensures appropriate equipment and supplies are loaded on truck needed for job, arrives to work site.
Performs water damage repair to include water extraction, pack-out of contents, removing/disposing of non-salvageable materials, light construction and demolition as directed by supervisor
Helps to ensures equipment, supplies, vehicles, and products are properly handled. Reports any equipment malfunction and or damage to Water Tech/Lead
Helps to resolves issues with customers, communicates customer issues, daily job activities with Water Tech/Lead
Assists with taking pictures and documentation according to company policies and procedures.
Job Requirements & Qualifications:

Experience in the restoration or construction industry not required but preferred
Valid Drivers License and satisfactory driving record
Good verbal and written and communication skills
Good customer service skills
Experience with using mobile software to enter data
Can read and follow product label usage instructions
Must be able to prioritize activities and meet deadlines
Certifications are not required but preferred:
o WTR Water Damage Restoration Technician
o ASD Applied Structural Drying Technician
o IICRC Institute of Inspection Cleaning and restoration certification
Physical Demands and Working Conditions:
Move up to 70 pounds often, by lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or otherwise repositioning objects.
Stand and walk for extended periods of time. Lifting, squatting, crawling and crouching is required.
Express or exchange ideas with others quickly, receive and act on detailed information given.
For safety reasons, respirators, which are used in certain situations, must be able to seal to your face
Use visual acuity to perform detail-oriented activities
Be exposed to various inside and outside working conditions:
The change of environment such as with or without air conditioning and heating