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Water Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pueblo of San Felipe

Water Operator I

Algodones, NM · On-site

The Water Operator I (laborer) position shall have a certification level 1 for water system operation from EPA or be willing to obtain within one (1) year, as an entry level position with minimal ...

Pueblo of San Felipe

Water Operator I

Algodones, NM · On-site

The Water Operator I (laborer) position shall have a certification level 1 for water system operation from EPA or be willing to obtain within one (1) year, as an entry level position with minimal ...

Inframark

Water Operator I

Weslaco, TX · On-site

WATER OPERATOR I The Operator I is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in water treatment facilities. Surface Water Operator C license or above required. RESPONSIBILITIES

Ketchum

Water Operator I

Ketchum, ID · On-site

The Water Operator I is responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the Municipal Water System on an assigned shift basis. Work is performed under the direction of the supervisor in ...

Inframark

Water Operator I

Fort Mcdowell, AZ · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

WATER OPERATOR I Looking for a Water Operator at our Ft McDowell plant. The Operator is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in water treatment facilities. Grade 1 water ...

WhiteWater, Inc.

Operator II- Water

Sandwich, MA · On-site

$29.96 - $35.25/hr

Water Operator Position Summary : The Operator II, Water will operate and maintain assigned facilities and to actively support the Operations Lead Operator & Supervisor. The Operator will be part of ...

Inframark

Surface Water Operator

La Feria, TX · On-site

SURFACE WATER OPERATOR The Water Operator is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in water treatment facilities. Surface Water C License or above preferred. RESPONSIBILITIES

WhiteWater, Inc.

Operator II - Water

Sandwich, MA · On-site

$29.96 - $35.25/hr

Water Operator Position Summary : The Operator II, Water will operate and maintain assigned facilities and to actively support the Operations Lead Operator & Supervisor. The Operator will be part of ...

City of Ketchum

Water Operator I

Ketchum, ID · On-site

The Water Operator I is responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the Municipal Water System on an assigned shift basis. Work is performed under the direction of the supervisor in ...

Washington City

Storm Water Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Storm Water Salary: Operator 1) $43,180 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience) Salary: Operator 2) $45,590 (Lateral Pay Considered Depending on Experience) Salary: Operator 3) $53,659 ...

City Of Augusta

WATER OPERATOR I

Augusta, KS · On-site

JOB TITLE WATER PLANT OPERATER I, II AKA SUMMARY OPERATOR 1: Under supervision of the Water Superintendent, assists in maintaining the water distribution system and water plant. OPERATOR 2: With ...

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Water Operator information

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$13

$26

$40

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in the United States is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $30.29 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.
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Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,297 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Water Operator I

Pueblo of San Felipe

Algodones, NM • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Salary: $15-$20

Job Summary: The Water Operator I (laborer) position shall have a certification level 1 for water system operation from EPA or be willing to obtain within one (1) year, as an entry level position with minimal knowledge required. Pueblo of San Felipe to provide training and cover associated costs to attain certification. Have previous experience in any former construction field.


Job Summary: The Water Operator I (laborer) position shall have a certification level 1 for water system operation from EPA or be willing to obtain within one (1) year, as an entry level position with minimal knowledge required. Pueblo of San Felipe to provide training and cover associated costs to attain certification. Have previous experience in any former construction field.


Qualifications:

High School Diploma or equivalent. Must have or be willing to attain a EPA Level 1 Water Certification within one year.


Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

  • No previous experience required. Must be able to attain a level 1 water certification within one (1) year. Must be able to take direction and be familiar with a variety of hand tools. Will help in completing water utility construction projects. Will be responsible for learning all safety requirements of the department and be required to attend training as needed.
  • Required Licenses/Certifications: A valid drivers license.
  • Physical Requirements: The physical demands require outside work in all seasons and for prolonged periods of time. May require driving in variable weather conditions. Requires walking in undeveloped and uneven terrain.
  • Preferences: San Felipe Member Preference, Native American Preference and Veterans Preference.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Keres speaking is desirable.