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

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Albuquerque, NM

$28/hr

In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently ... Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments ...

Badger Daylighting

Hydrovac Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$28/hr

In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently ... Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments ...

M. A. Mortenson Company

Operator

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator that will be responsible for operating equipment as directed and specified while adhering to all rules and regulations as mandated by Mortenson ...

Mortenson

Operator

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator that will be responsible for operating equipment as directed and specified while adhering to all rules and regulations as mandated by Mortenson ...

Kairos Power

Operators

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Drawing upon a foundation of established basic technical skills, the operator works collaboratively to proactively address and resolve unplanned events within their collective capabilities. The ideal ...

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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 Jun 19, 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 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.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,381 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Hydrovac Operator

Badger Daylighting

Albuquerque, NM

$28/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Are you enthusiastic about safe excavation and skilled in operating hydrovac equipment? Join the Badger team as a Hydrovac Operator! In this role, you'll use high-pressure water and vacuum systems to dig precisely and efficiently, uncover utilities, and contribute to various construction projects. If you're detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and ready to be part of essential infrastructure work, apply now to join our dedicated team.

$28.00 per hour and up based on experience with many opportunities for pay increases and career advancement!

#BDGRJobsHP

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Operating hydrovac equipment and performing hydrovac duties in a variety of working environments, including confined spaces
  • Driving our hydrovac trucks (10-15% of total work time)
  • Attending safety meetings
  • Performing routine inspections and minor repairs of the hydrovac equipment
  • Preparing work areas by setting up safety measures and addressing potential hazards
  • Documenting and reporting all Badger, Federal, State, and Customer paperwork accurately and efficiently
     

What We're Looking For:
 

  • Must have a valid Class A or B CDL
  • CPR/First Aid, Fall Protection and OSHA 10 certification (preferred)
  • Experience driving a manual transmission (10-18 speed) without automatic restrictions (preferred)
  • Ability to work variable shifts with extended hours
  • Must be willing to travel up to 25%
  • Must be able to lift, push, pull 50+ pounds and have the physical stamina for manual labor in varying weather conditions
  • Prior hydrovac equipment operations or related industrial experience preferred
  • Must be at least 21 years of age

What You'll Need For Success:

  • Customer service focused and comfortable with customer interaction
  • Enthusiasm for being part of a safety-focused collaborative team
  • Technology adept
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) provided
  • Candidates must undergo a physical examination and complete pre-employment screenings such as a driver's abstract review and drug and alcohol test
     


If you feel you don't have the experience listed above, but still think you are qualified for the job, we encourage you to apply for consideration.

Badger Infrastructure Solutions is the industry leader in non­-destructive hydro-excavation (hydrovac) services. Since 1992, Badger has been innovating cutting-edge technology and providing services to a diverse customer base, including oil and gas, energy, industrial, construction, transportation and other markets, as well as numerous government agencies within Canada and the United States. 

We hire great people from a wide array of backgrounds, not because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes Badger stronger. 

There has never been a better time to join and grow with Badger.

Apply