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Water Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nexus Water Group

Operator Water IV

Birmingham, AL · On-site

As part of our ongoing commitment to operational excellence, we are seeking a dependable Water Operator to join our team and play a crucial role in our Field Operations department. Must be familiar ...

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 III - Water

Littleton, MA · On-site

$32.95 - $38.77/hr

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Washington City

Water Operator FT

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a project-by-project basis.Supervision Exercised:NoneEssential Functions:Water: Operates various ...

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Water Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$40

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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.

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.

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 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.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe drinking water. 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% 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.

Operator Water IV

Nexus Water Group

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

Nexus Water Group is a leading regulated water and wastewater utility serving more than 1.3 million people across 12 U.S. states and 2 Canadian provinces.

"Nexus" means connection. Through the essential water and wastewater services we deliver, we have a very personal connection to the people, businesses, and communities we serve. This is why our operations are locally led and managed. Every day, over 1,200 professionals deliver vital, safe, and reliable service through over 670 water systems and 360 wastewater systems.

Purpose of the Job

Imagine being part of a team that supplies the essential element for life. Water is the very foundation of this planet, the life-giving essence in all of us. Driven, knowledgeable, and passionate about this essential resource, the Alabama Water Utilities team, a subsidiary of Nexus Water Group, is in the business of delivering a product everyone uses and depends on.

As part of our ongoing commitment to operational excellence, we are seeking a dependable Water Operator to join our team and play a crucial role in our Field Operations department. Must be familiar with industry-standard analyses such as chlorine residual, pH, dissolved oxygen, and suspended and total solids. This position must be able to inspect distribution or collection systems for leaks and perform routine distribution system flushing. Operates sewage treatment, sludge processing, and disposal equipment in wastewater (sewage) treatment plant to control flow and processing of sewage.

What We Offer
  • 401k Company Match
  • Vacation Accrual: Starting at 3 weeks per year
  • Holidays: 10 company-paid holidays per year
  • Floating Time: 16 hours of paid floating time per year
  • Sick Time
  • Additional Benefit Plans include Medical, Dental, Vision, Company-Paid Life Insurance, and more
  • Training, Professional Certifications, and Education Allowance
Job Responsibilities

Reasonable Accommodations Statement
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Operates and maintains the water treatment facilities as required by city, state, and federal guidelines;
  • Performs daily analyses of effluent samples; makes necessary adjustments to keep facility within permit limits; Makes operational adjustments as needed to comply with state and federal water quality standards
  • Adjusts chemical treatment to ensure water quality standards are met.
  • Assists with water and wastewater line repairs, new line installation, and other work as directed.
  • Inspect and maintain pumps, motors, valves, and other plant equipment in working order, troubleshooting problems as they arise.
  • Respond to and investigate customer service calls. Complete customer service work orders, updates, and maintains activity with required documentation, and closes work orders in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
  • Performs routine tests on water treatment facilities, including tests related to treatment process, chemicals, pumps, motors, and routine water quality sampling. Collect and analyze appropriate readings of gauges and meters;
  • Conducts routine testing, monitoring, and maintenance of production wells, water/wastewater unit processes, and basic laboratory analyses.
  • Performs and documents the treatment process and maintenance of treatment facility equipment.
  • Documents plant performance, including daily flow, well meter readings, and chemical dosage and usage.
  • Other duties assigned.
Competencies

Delivering High Quality Work

Supporting Coworkers

Communicating Effectively

Working Safely

Certifications

AL- Grade III Water Operator

OR
AL- Grade IV Water Operator

Physical Requirements

Field- based role.

Work Experience

License: Grade III or IV Certification in Water Treatment

Education:Requires advanced vocational skills and knowledge of water and wastewater operations and management, which may be acquired by obtaining certifications in Water and Wastewater Operations.

About Our Company

We are a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state, or local law.

We are an E-Verify participating employer.

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