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

Materion

Operator II, Chemical Stripping

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18.75 - $21.25/hr

Perform Waste Water Treatment Processes per approved SOP * Ability to process PVD shield components ... Must follow strict operating and safety procedures. Must be able to wear necessary personal ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Apidel Technologies

UC.334.WAT.JC3.Operator.NP

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

$96K - $131K/yr

... in water treatment processes, principles of supervision and training, and safe work practices ... operating conditions and interprets meter and gauge readings Operates valves and gates either ...

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 ...

Culligan

Customer Service Representative

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

... the water treatment industry. This location is independently owned and operated. Your application will go directly to the owner, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this ...

Aerotek

Telehandler Operator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$30/hr

Heavy Equipment Operator - Construction and Solar Projects This role is responsible for safely operating forklifts and other heavy material-handling equipment to load, unload, transport, and stage ...

New

The Pueblo of Sandia

UTILITY LAB LEVEL II

Bernalillo, NM

$28.21 - $31.73/hr

Cross trains in water and wastewater operations and maintenance. May be required to perform routine operator 1 and /or 2 duties on an as needed. * Punctual and regular attendance is an essential ...

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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 11, 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.
Operator II, Chemical Stripping

Operator II, Chemical Stripping

Materion Corporation

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$18.75 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Materion rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 92 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

At Materion, everyone is included, respected and offered opportunity to grow. Join us!
JOB PURPOSE AND REPORTING STRUCTURE: Under the direction of the Chemical Stripping Supervisor, the Chemical Stripping Operator is responsible for the mechanical and chemical removal of metals process and the reconditioning and packaging of parts.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Mechanically and chemically remove metals from PVD shield components using appropriate chemical solutions.
  • After removal of metals from PVD shield components, clean, inspect, and package components per operating procedures.
  • Operate and Maintain high pressure sandblasters
  • Perform calculations to determine the amount of metals recovered from customer materials. Maintain monthly logs tracking production totals.
  • Maintain and operate metals recovery system.
  • Maintain and operate cyanide destruct unit, including bringing in chemicals and calibration of meters.
  • Process Silver Nitrate through the Sodium Formate precipitation process
  • Perform Waste Water Treatment Processes per approved SOP
  • Ability to process PVD shield components in various acids and bases for hours at a time.
  • Adhere to Clean Room regulations and follow all procedures throughout the day.
  • Notify appropriate people of low quality parts.
  • Verify the accuracy of the label.
  • Accurately count, weigh, record information while carefully placing product into bags.
  • Perform Daily particle measurements in the clean room.
  • Must be able to read and interpret specifications and part drawings
  • Must follow strict operating and safety procedures. Must be able to wear necessary personal protective equipment.
  • Maintain superior housekeeping in stripping and chemical areas. Ensure proper location of chemicals.
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds and move full 55 gallon drums of chemicals.
  • Serves on the Emergency Response Team.

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING REQUIRED: Requires the use of safety glasses, respirator, safety shoes, and protective clothing such uniforms or lab coats. Other, more specialized protective gear may be required occasionally.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Forty hour Hazwoper Certification preferred.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
  • Background in chemical processing.
  • High school chemistry or equivalent on the job experience.
  • Knowledge of safe chemical handling and storage. Because of the possibility of dangerous reactions with hazardous substances, six months of experience in chemical process is desired.
  • Must complete company safety training program.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to read and interpret documents such as shop orders, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write standard documentation. Ability to communicate with other employees to share information and solve problems.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, percent and conversion of measurement units.
REASONING ABILITY: Must be very alert. Able to accurately calculate the precious metal content of solutions and account for customers precious metals.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and use hands to finger, handle, or touch objects, tools, or controls. The employee frequently is required to walk, climb or balance, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and reach above shoulders. The employee must be able to move 55 gallon 600-700 pound drums using a hand cart.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
In constant contact with hazardous chemicals including acids, especially cyanide. Must regularly wear personal protective equipment including respiratory protection. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
The above statements reflect the general details necessary to describe the principle functions of the occupation described and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the occupation.
Materion Corporation and its subsidiaries (the "Company") is an equal employment opportunity employer. It is the Company's policy to not unlawfully discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories. It is also the Company's policy to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws respecting consideration of unemployment status in making hiring decisions. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity and maintain employment statistics on applicants.
Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the terms of the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on the Company. Please inform the Company's personnel representative if you need assistance completing any forms or to otherwise participate in the application process.
Materion's Veteran Employee Resource group supports veterans and promotes the benefits of hiring veterans in the workplace. We honor all those who have served and are a military friendly company. Veterans are encouraged to apply and military experience and skills are transferrable to Materion careers.
Please provide complete information. An incomplete application may affect your consideration for employment.

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