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Water Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Plant Supervisor Work Location: Louisburg, KS Under the supervision of the Water Plant Supervisor, Water Plant Operator is a non-exempt position under FLSA which performs semi-skilled ...

Water Plant Operators are responsible for making minor repairs and adjustments to chemical feed equipment, pumps, and other water treatment processes. Work includes inspection and operation of motors ...

Water Plant Operator

Manitowoc, WI ยท On-site

$35.09 - $48.12/hr

Menasha Water Plant, 57 Manitowoc Street, Menasha, WI Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 2026-3 Department: Water Division: Insight Water Opening Date: 06/08/2026 Closing Date: 7/31/2026 4:00 PM Central ...

Pure Water Plant Operator

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$50.55 - $61.43/hr

Pure Water Plant Operator Join to apply for the Pure Water Plant Operator role at A Hiring Company . The Pure Water Plant Operator is responsible for daily operations of the Pure Water facilities ...

Surface Water Plant Operator

Burgaw, NC ยท On-site

$40K - $46K/yr

Water Treatment Plant Operator B Comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practice, equipment and methods used in modern surface water treatment and pumping operations general knowledge of ...

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Water Plant information

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$29.5K

$58.9K

$98.5K

How much do water plant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant in the United States is $58,885.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

In the water plant industry, roles such as water treatment operators or plant technicians can earn around $3,000 or more per month with relevant on-the-job training and certifications, without requiring a college degree. These positions often involve operating and maintaining water treatment equipment, and experience or vocational training can be sufficient for entry-level roles. Salary varies by location and experience, but many entry-level water plant jobs offer competitive wages without a degree requirement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often paired with a state-issued operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, lab testing equipment, and regulatory compliance software is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient plant operations. These competencies are essential for maintaining water quality, meeting regulatory standards, and ensuring public health and safety.

What are some common challenges faced by water plant operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Water plant operators often face challenges such as maintaining equipment, responding to water quality issues, and adhering to strict regulatory standards. Unexpected system malfunctions or changes in water quality can require quick troubleshooting and decision-making. Team collaboration is key, as operators frequently coordinate with maintenance crews, laboratory technicians, and supervisors to ensure safe and efficient operations. Staying updated on new technologies and continuous training can also help address these challenges and advance in the field.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Jobs in the water plant industry typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized skills or certifications. High-paying roles that reach this level often require advanced technical training, management experience, or union membership, such as plant managers or senior operators, but these usually need relevant education or experience. Most entry-level water plant positions pay less than this amount weekly.

What are water plant operators?

Water plant operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining the systems that treat and distribute drinking water or process wastewater. They monitor equipment, control chemical dosing, conduct water quality tests, and ensure that all operations comply with state and federal regulations. Water plant operators play a crucial role in providing safe and clean water to communities and protecting the environment from pollution.

What do water plant workers do?

Water plant workers operate and maintain equipment at water treatment facilities to ensure safe and clean drinking water. They monitor water quality, perform tests, follow safety protocols, and may need certifications in water treatment or safety procedures. Their work environment is typically a plant or facility focused on water purification processes.

How much do wastewater operators make?

Wastewater operators in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the facility. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with advanced certifications can earn higher wages. The job often requires knowledge of treatment processes, equipment, and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Water Plant vs Water Treatment Operator?

AspectWater PlantWater Treatment Operator
CertificationsOften requires state-specific licenses or certificationsTypically requires similar certifications, such as water treatment licenses
Work EnvironmentOperates in water treatment facilities, handling large-scale water processingWorks in water treatment plants, monitoring and maintaining water quality
Industry UsageCommonly used interchangeably with Water Treatment OperatorFocuses on water purification and safety processes

Both Water Plant and Water Treatment Operator roles involve working in water treatment facilities, ensuring water quality, and maintaining equipment. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Water Plant' generally refers to the facility itself, while 'Water Treatment Operator' describes the role of the worker operating within that facility. Understanding these distinctions helps in job searches and career planning within the water industry.

More about Water Plant jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Plant jobs? Cities with the most Water Plant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Plant jobs? The most popular types of Water Plant jobs are:
What states have the most Water Plant jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Plant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Plant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,885 per year, or $28.3 per hour.
Water Plant Operator

Water Plant Operator

US Water Services Corporation

Cookson, OK โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

U.S. Water Services Corporation is a well-established and diverse water and wastewater utility organization specializing in utility maintenance, operations, engineering and construction services. U.S. Water is a fast paced and rapidly expanding company headquartered in New Port Richey, Florida with a staff of over 700 employees in eighteen states

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Water Plant Operator operates and maintains water treatment, processing, and testing equipment in a water treatment facility to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements. Troubleshoots and diagnoses operational problems and takes corrective action per procedure and process knowledge. Monitors flow meters, gauges, flow ratios, pressures and related controls through instrument panels and programmable logic control units in assigned area. Monitors and records operating conditions observations and data in area shift log. Ensures conformance to process specifications. Verifies and reports suspected malfunctions and variances to the supervisor. Performs routine and preventative maintenance and maintenance related items as assigned. Performs field laboratory tests (chemical and physical) in order to pace chemical dosages for efficient process control. Ensure that all safety and environmental requirements are consistently achieved including strict compliance.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs all operations and maintenance procedures.
  • Participates in complex and technical maintenance and repair tasks.
  • Monitors and adjusts the operation of water plant pumps, motors, and other equipment.
  • Accurately reads gauges, dials and other instruments that depict and/or record data.
  • Services, maintains, and repairs a variety of water system equipment, including pumps, valves, motors, filters, and meters.
  • Inspects water system equipment and facilities to locate needed repairs, and makes repairs to various water system equipment as required.
  • Inspects and maintains water distribution facilities.
  • Assists in the training of other water department personnel.
  • Collects samples and assists in conducting a variety of chemical and physical tests.
  • Maintains clear and concise logs and records.
  • Inspects water sources and water storage tanks.
  • Inspects, services and replaces meters, fittings, and meter boxes.
  • Operates a front-end loader and other vehicles.
  • Maintains all log books, records, and reports required by various laws and permits, as well as those necessary for efficient operation.
  • Performs general plant maintenance work such as sweeping, cleaning, painting, and landscaping.
  • May reads water meters.
  • Coordinates with other company departments for assistance or repair, and as necessary. May be responsible for the ordering, storage and use of supplies needed for general operation of a water plant and outlying system responsibilities and their inventory.
  • Maintains a good relationship with the public and responds to complaints regarding operations.
  • Regular and timely attendance
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.


DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS


Education and Experience: (A) Must have an active Oklahoma Class C Water Operator's License at a minimum; and (B) One (1) years of experience relating to the construction, repair, and maintenance of water collection or treatment systems including the operation of related maintenance equipment, or (C) Any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: (A) Thorough knowledge of equipment, facilities, materials, methods and procedures used in water collection and treatment systems; Considerable knowledge of water pipe installation, connection, and repair; Considerable knowledge of water treatment plant operation and maintenance. (B) Skill in the operation of the listed tools and equipment. (C) Ability to interpret specific chemical and biological analyses; Ability to guide, direct and motivate employees; Ability to organize and supervise the activities of various crews performing construction and maintenance work; Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other departments and the public.


SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Valid Class C Water Operator's License and a valid Driver's License.


TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

  • Detection devices, mobile radio/phone, a personal computer (may include word processing, excel, and other software), copier and fax machine.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and smell.

Compensation and Benefits: US Water/USW Utility Group offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, paid time off, holiday pay and 401(k) with company match.

US Water/USW Utility Group offers is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro