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Water Operator Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

Kimley-Horn

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Spokane, WA

$22 - $30.25/hr

Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Spokane, WA

$22 - $30.25/hr

Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Spokane, WA · On-site

$22 - $30.25/hr

Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Spokane, WA · On-site

$22 - $30.25/hr

Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ... Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice * Our Project Managers/Practice ...

Garco Construction Inc.

Operator

Spokane, WA

$23/hr

As a Construction Operator you will operate heavy equipment. Some of the key items you will need to do on a daily basis will be: * Operate several types of large (45,000 lbs. or larger) power ...

Centuri Construction Group

Operator

Spokane Valley, WA · On-site

$27.96 - $43.01/hr

As an experienced Equipment Operator , after paid training , you will put your skills to work - safety operating equipment to move earth, tools and materials to and from job sites. Reporting to a ...

Centuri Group, Inc.

Operator

Spokane Valley, WA · On-site

$27.96 - $43.01/hr

As an experienced Equipment Operator , after paid training , you will put your skills to work - safety operating equipment to move earth, tools and materials to and from job sites. Reporting to a ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Forklift Driver

Spokane, WA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Warehouse Forklift Operator Operates a stand-up electric forklift to move pallets of merchandise ... Waters batteries and plugs batteries into battery charger. Changes out forklift batteries.

Waters Meet

People & Culture Director

Spokane, WA · On-site

About Waters Meet Waters Meet, formerly known as Empire Health Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ... Manage the total people and culture budget; identify a plan for operating expenses that meets or ...

Spokane Produce, Inc.

FARM HAND/LEAD

Spokane, WA

$20/hr

Operating Large Equipment: Heavy machinery listed below will be used day to day on the job: -Tractor -Swather -Bale Wagon -Dump Truck -Flatbed Pickup -Snow Plow -Fuel Truck -Water Truck -Semi with ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Spokane, WA

Water Operator information

See Spokane, WA salary details

$13

$26

$41

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Spokane, WA is $26.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How much do water operators make?

Water operators in Michigan typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the water system. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe and clean water supply. The job offers stable employment, requires technical skills and certifications, and often involves working outdoors or in water treatment facilities. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and infrastructure maintenance.

What does it take to be a water operator?

A water operator is responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment and distribution systems. Requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant certifications such as a state-issued water treatment operator license, and knowledge of water quality standards, safety procedures, and equipment operation. On-the-job training and technical skills are also important for ensuring safe and efficient water service.
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The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Spokane, WA are:

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For Water Operator jobs in Spokane, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Spokane, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,901 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Kimley-Horn

Spokane, WA

$22 - $30.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 450 rated engineering

Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn has an opportunity for a motivated Practice Leader to expand our Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice in Spokane, WA!

Responsibilities
  • Manage, lead, and expand practice teams for multi-discipline projects and programs of work in the fields of water/wastewater treatment projects, water and wastewater pumping systems, and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection)
  • Has an entrepreneurial spirit and create a vision for growth for the local water resource practice and beyond
  • Given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business
  • Leadership responsibilities include:
    • Operating with integrity and sound business principles
    • Providing vision, business planning and strategy
    • Establishing goals
    • Building and maintaining positive client relationships
    • Having open communication with your partners and team
    • Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice
  • Our Project Managers/Practice Builders manage their projects profitably, transition work to qualified staff, grow and mentor staff, and act as a positive leader and mentor
  • The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business
  • With success, this individual will enjoy the rewards of an impressive bonus program with the potential to advance to ownership
Qualifications
  • 15+ years of civil engineering, design, and management of utility water projects experience
  • Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) license 
  • Client contacts and relationships with local municipalities, area counties, water management authorities and local, regional, state agencies
  • Business development skills and the proven ability to win work
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and technical skills
  • Strong desire and ability to be engaged with clients solving project problems
  • Ability to effectively communicate positively at all levels of the organization
  • Ability to manage and mentor staff and direct resources effectively in a positive manner
  • Demonstrated ability to manage projects profitably

Salary Range:

  • $150k - $180k
  • Eligible for Lucrative Performance Based Bonus Compensation
Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967

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