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Water Operator Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Water Treatment Operator

Springfield, VA · On-site

Certified Water Treatment Operator * Chiller water treatment knowledge Physical Requirements * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. * Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods * Work in ...

Leidos

Water Treatment Operator

Springfield, VA · On-site

Certified Water Treatment Operator * Chiller water treatment knowledge Physical Requirements * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. * Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods * Work in ...

Leidos

Senior Water Treatment Operator

Springfield, VA · On-site

Certified Water Treatment Operator * Chiller water treatment knowledge Physical Requirements * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. * Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods * Work in ...

Leidos

Senior Water Treatment Operator

Springfield, VA · On-site

Certified Water Treatment Operator * Chiller water treatment knowledge Physical Requirements * Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. * Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach for extended periods * Work in ...

BTS Bioenergy

Wastewater Operator

Jessup, MD · On-site

$22.25 - $30.75/hr

The Operator is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of our Maryland Bioenergy ... Able to perform basic water quality or other laboratory analysis * Knowledge of the operation of ...

Luck Stone

Water Truck Operator

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $26.50/hr

Water Truck Operator Luck Stone's Leesburg Plant is looking to hire a Water Truck Operator. Water Truck Operators skillfully navigate quarry roads and plants to disperse water around the location to ...

Luck Stone

Water Truck Operator

Ashburn, VA

$24.38 - $36.58/hr

Water Truck Operators skillfully navigate quarry roads and plants to disperse water around the location to dissipate airborne dust. Duties include but are not limited to: * Pre-shift and post shift ...

Luck Stone Corporation

Water Truck Operator

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$20.50 - $26.50/hr

Water Truck Operators skillfully navigate quarry roads and plants to disperse water around the location to dissipate airborne dust. Duties include but are not limited to: * Pre-shift and post shift ...

WSSC Water

Water Quality Specialist

Laurel, MD · On-site

Develops internal operating procedures for water quality operation * Trains new or subordinate staff * Performs major support tasks for the Response Section Manager/Division Manager, Water Quality

Carroll Water

Water Treatment Technician

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Carroll Water is a family-owned and operated company with more than 40 years of experience providing water well and water treatment solutions. We are looking for a dependable and experienced Water ...

langan

Water/Wastewater Practice Leader

Arlington, VA · On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems ...

langan

Water/Wastewater Practice Leader

Arlington, VA

$25 - $34.50/hr

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

Water Operator information

See Washington, DC salary details

$14

$29

$45

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Washington, DC is $29.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.41 and $34.28 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.
More about Water Operator jobs

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For Water Operator jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:

Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,474 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Regional Process Mechanical Leader - Water/Wastewater

Dewberry

Fairfax, VA

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Dewberry rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Dewberry is seeking an experiencedWater/Wastewater Process Mechanical Leader to manage and execute water and wastewater facility projects for public utility clients.This is an opportunity for a highly motivated individual to join a team of energetic, highly engaged professionals in Dewberry’s National Water Market Segment.  This position is available in a variety of locations and may offer remote, hybrid or in person work opportunities. The ideal candidate will have strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills to lead engineers and other professionals on a variety of projects, which may include but are not limited to: 

  • Water treatment plants 
  • Wastewater treatment plants 
  • Water booster stations  
  • Wastewater pump stations  
  • Water storage facilities  
  • Flow equalization 

With support from the enterprise, the successful candidate will be responsible for leading a team to execute highly technical projects. The ideal candidate will have strong technical skills and be capable of pursuing new opportunities, assisting with technical proposals, and preparing project work plans and fee estimates.  

Our water practice delivers high-quality, complex projects for top-tier water clients across the country. By combining strong local relationships with national expertise, strategic market focus, and innovative delivery approaches, our people perform meaningful work while shaping the future of water infrastructure. We’re looking for professionals who want to grow with us and help improve the water infrastructure for their communities.

Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 60 locations and 2,500 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors is our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you’re an experienced professional or a new graduate, you’ll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call “Dewberry at Work,” that haveinspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century. 


  • Lead water/wastewater process mechanical design projects for public utility clients. 
  • Lead the planning phase of projects while interfacing and coordinating with other engineering disciplines, technicians, inspectors, and permitting specialists. 
  • Contribute to the continued growth of our National Water Market Segment through performing business development and client management activities, including proposal preparation and client interaction through active participation in professional associations. 
  • Effectively understand and communicate project expectations to the project team and client. 
  • Conduct QA and QC reviews of other projects. 
  • Provide technical assistance and mentoring of junior staff. 
  • Employ earned value management principles to prepare and monitor project work plans, schedules, and budgets. 
  • Expand technical knowledge and professional network by attending seminars, workshops, and conferences, reviewing professional publications, and actively participating in State and/or National professional associations through committee involvement and technical presentations. 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Mechanical, Chemical, or Environmental Engineering. Master’s degree preferred. 
  • A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the water/wastewater field. 
  • Thorough knowledge and ability to apply theories, principles, concepts, and practices of civil and environmental engineering to the planning of water, wastewater, and reclaimed water conveyance and treatment systems. 
  • A successful track record of managing projects, including scope, schedule, and budget. 

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