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Water Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Veolia

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29/hr

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 ...

Port Ludlow

Water Sewer Technician

Port Ludlow, WA

$25 - $33/hr

State certification for Water Distribution Manager 1 OIT, Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator 1 OIT, or participation in Evergreen Rual Water of Washington (ERWOW) apprenticeship program required.

Veolia

Regional Growth Leader - West

Kent, WA

Company Description 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 ...

Port Ludlow

Water/Sewer Technician II

Port Ludlow, WA

$35 - $41/hr

State certification for Water Distribution Manager 1 and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator 1 required * Ability to obtain State certification for Water Distribution Manager 2, Water Treatment Plant ...

Veolia

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA · On-site

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 ...

Enviri Corporation

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29/hr

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 ...

Enviri Corporation

CDL A Driver

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$29/hr

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 ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA

Water Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$29

$46

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Seattle, WA is $29.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $34.47 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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Seattle, WA? For Water Operator jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Water Operator job openings:
Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,827 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Water Operators I & II

BizTek People, Inc. | APA International Placement Consultants

Freeland, WA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description


Title: Water Operators I & II
Location: Freeland/Whidbey Island, WA
Duration: FTE Direct Hire
JOB SUMMARY
Works under general supervision performing a variety of skilled tasks pertaining to the installation, operation and maintenance of a water and wastewater facility, while continuing to gain the education and skills needed to achieve Oregon State Health Division and Department of Environmental Quality Distribution Certification.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Compile records and reports in accordance with State and Federal rules and regulations.
• Analyze and conduct mathematical calculations following laboratory procedures to make adjustments in the operation of a water facility.
• Provide effective communication with management and/or other operators on the technical level required of this position.
• Conform to all safety policies and participate in specialized training for the safe handling of hazardous materials and confined space entry.
• Perform all aspects of the daily operation and testing of a 1.5 million gallon per day wastewater treatment facility.
• Assist in all aspects of utility construction including, but not limited to, excavation, shoring, laying and testing of water lines.
• Efficiently operate all types of equipment used in a water field including but not limited to backhoes, dump trucks, forklifts, loaders, sewer flushing truck, mini excavator, vac trailer and tractors.
• Participate in the design and planning of new and existing water projects.
• *Compliance with all State and Federal rules and regulations pertaining to the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater facility.
• Performs repair and maintenance on all water apparatus, including structures and grounds.
• Comply with all Company policies, procedures and safety regulations and culture.
• Comply with Company grooming and uniform policy.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
• High school education or equivalent.
• Must have a Class I or II Certification in one of the water/wastewater fields, i.e. Water Distribution, Wastewater Collections, or Wastewater Treatment.
• Achieve 10 hours per year of accredited training pertaining to the water/wastewater field.
• Valid Oregon CDL drivers' license, with a tanker endorsement and air brake endorsements. (Must have or be able to obtain within 1 year of date of hire)
• Must be able to safely lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Must be able to physically accommodate and use respirators and self-contained breathing apparatuses
• Must be physically able to access and egress trenches, manholes and lift stations as well as water reservoirs and towers.
• Must be able to accommodate a weekend or variable shift and/or be on 24-hour emergency call when assigned.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The working environment will vary from extreme outdoor conditions to indoor job duties.Safety procedures must always be followed, as workers will continually be exposed to hazardous materials, confined space, electrical components and heavy equipment such as backhoes, dump trucks, sewer flushing and transporting vehicles.Worker must be in a physical condition that will allow him or her access into sewer manholes and any number of holding tanks and basins in a water/wastewater plant.

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