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Water Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

City of Fort Wayne

Water Operator I

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

Water Operator I Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM Have experience with water distribution systems, hydrants, valves, or underground utilities-and want local work with great hours, strong ...

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

City of Fort Wayne

Water Operator I

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$23.49 - $28.30/hr

Water Operator I Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM Have experience with water distribution systems, hydrants, valves, or underground utilities-and want local work with great hours, strong ...

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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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 ...

Liberty

Water Operator - Distribution

Pine Bluff, AR · On-site

Purpose The Water Operator performs routine functions associated with the daily operations of a water production and distribution system. Duties include daily checks of wells, pumps, lift stations ...

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 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 ...

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Washington City

Storm Water Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$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 ...

Weston & Sampson

$25 - $32/hr

Weston & Sampson Services is seeking a licensed, experienced Drinking Water Operator to perform supervisory, operations and maintenance tasks for Massachusetts Public Water Systems. This position ...

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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 2, 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.
More about Water Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Operator jobs? Cities with the most Water Operator job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs are:
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Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,297 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Water Operator with no licensing.

WATER ENVIRONMENTAL & TECHNOLO

Houston, TX

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

 We are seeking a Field Technician to support water and wastewater operations throughout Texas while learning to become a water operator. This position will assist with daily field operations, including system checks, maintenance tasks, sampling, and general support at treatment facilities. The role is hands-on and designed for someone who wants to learn the water and wastewater industry through real-world experience. A license is not required, but the candidate must be willing to learn Texas regulations and work toward operator certification. This position involves outdoor work, travel to various sites, and physical activity. Ideal candidates are reliable, mechanically inclined, and motivated to build a long-term career in water or wastewater operations.