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Water Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Newton, NC

Water Plant Operator

Newton, NC · On-site

$20.74 - $25.92/hr

Water Plant Operator C - $18.8051 - $23.5064/hr Water Plant Operator B - $19.7530 - $24.6913/hr Water Plant Operator A - $20.7359 - $25.9199/hr Eligible for probationary increases up to 5% in the ...

City of Newton

$18.81/hr

Work of the water plant operator is differentiated by the level of state certification (C is lowest and A is highest), length of experience and broader knowledge and responsibilities of plant ...

HR Partners

Water Plant Operator

Louisburg, KS

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 ...

City of Cut Bank

Water Plant Operator

Cut Bank, MT · On-site

$26.27/hr

The Water Plant Operator will operate and maintain the water, the water pumping, water treatment plant and water distribution, take samples, tests and perform analysis of water and its treatment. The ...

City of Cut Bank

Water Plant Operator

Cut Bank, MT · On-site

$26.27/hr

The Water Plant Operator will operate and maintain the water, the water pumping, water treatment plant and water distribution, take samples, tests and perform analysis of water and its treatment. The ...

Stafford County, VA

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

There are four levels to the Water Plant Operator positions, which offer opportunities for career growth. The hiring range for each level based on experience is: * Class IV - $25.26 to $34.74 per ...

Stafford County

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

Stafford County is seeking Water Plant Operators to join our team. If you meet these qualifications, we encourage you to apply. All sections of the application must be completed in its entirety. The ...

Rosso Recruiting

Water Plant Manager

East Chicago, IN

$115K - $122K/yr

Water Plant Manager Industrial Energy Facility -- Full-time Leadership Role Position Snapshot Employment Type: Full-time Location: East Chicago IN Reports To: General Manager Compensation:

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Water Plant information

See salary details

$29.5K

$58.9K

$98.5K

How much do water plant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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 is a water plant operator?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to be a water plant operator?

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 common challenges faced by water plant operators, and how can they be addressed?

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 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.

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 handle chemical dosing and equipment repairs. Certification and knowledge of water treatment processes are often required for this role.

What do you need to work at a water plant?

To work at a water plant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical skills, and knowledge of water treatment processes. Certifications such as a Water Treatment Operator license may be required depending on the role and location. Physical fitness and the ability to work in a team environment are also important.
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:

Water Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Plant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% 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 $58,885 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Water Plant Operator

City of Newton, NC

Newton, NC • On-site

$20.74 - $25.92/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Monitor and operate water treatment plant equipment to ensure proper functioning and water quality.

  • Conduct routine water quality tests, record results, and adjust chemical feed rates as needed.

  • Perform maintenance and repairs on plant equipment and assist with operational troubleshooting.

Job description

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Newton, NC
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 00278
Department: Public Works-Water Trtmnt Plant
Opening Date: 07/30/2026
Job Details: Depending on experience and qualifications the hiring range will be as follows: Water Plant Operator C - $18.8051 - $23.5064/hr Water Plant Operator B - $19.7530 - $24.6913/hr Water Plant Operator A - $20.7359 - $25.9199/hr Eligible for probationary increases up to 5% in the first 6 months.
Disclaimer: The City of Newton is a tobacco and drug free workplace. Applicants are subject to pre-employment drug and background screening. Equal Opportunity Employer
Description
Primary Reason Why Classification Exists
To perform technical and skilled manual work in the operation and maintenance of a municipal water treatment plant
Distinguishing Features of the Class
An employee in this class is responsible for monitoring and treating the city's drinking water and water supply in the water treatment plant. Emphasis of the work is on performing routine tests to ensure optimum quality of water and efficient operation of the plant. Work includes conducting hourly rounds of the plant, maintaining records, performing tests on water and plant systems, adding required chemicals to water, troubleshooting mechanical problems, assisting customers, and performing related duties. Work of the water plant operator is differentiated by the level of state certification (C is lowest and A is highest), length of experience and broader knowledge and responsibilities of plant operations, and ability to lead and train other plant personnel. Work is performed under the supervision of a Chief Water Plant Operator or Water Plant Superintendent and is evaluated for quality of water produced, accuracy in tests performed, documentation of records, and efficient plant operations.
Illustrative Examples of Work
  • Makes hourly tours of plant to inspect operations; reads and documents gauge and meter readings and calibrations; adjusts chemical feed rates of equipment; ensures meters and pumps are functioning properly
  • Collects water samples and performs tests; inspects water plant equipment and biological and chemical systems for proper operation; reports needs for equipment repairs
  • Performs test on filtered water to determine excess color and records results; conducts tests for turbidity in raw, settled, and filtered water, chlorine residuals in filtered water, alkalinity levels in raw and filtered water, and records all results; calibrates fluoride meter and tests fluoride residual in raw and filtered water and records results
  • Performs tests for coagulation, PH levels, and alkalinity; determines optimal chemical dosages; performs tests for titrations, Baume levels, settable solids, specific gravity, water hardness, carbon dioxide levels, dissolved oxygen, chloride, coliform, alum percentage, caustic percentage, fluoride level, carbon, chlorine, and colorimetric tests
  • Backwashes and rewashes filters using a backwash pump and fills feeder hoppers
  • Checks levels of alum, caustic fluoride, corrosion inhibitor, carbon, coagulant aid, and other chemicals and adds chemicals as needed
  • Replaces chlorine cylinders and regulates the flow of chlorine; calculates chemical dosage, average readings, and plant performance and records in log book
  • Performs routine preventative maintenance and repairs to pumps, motors, and other mechanical equipment; reports equipment failures to supervisor for replacement
  • Performs associated work such as bulk chemical handling, grounds keeping, and housekeeping duties
  • Participates in classroom and on-the-job training to ensure knowledge level and eligibility for certification renewal is maintained
  • Provides information to citizens, vendors, or others who may need assistance with water plant operations
  • Performs related tasks as required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a water treatment plant
  • Knowledge of state and federal water treatment and water quality regulations
  • Knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and necessary safety precautions
  • Ability to make decisions about water quality and water supply in the absence of a supervisor
  • Ability to detect problems in the operation of mechanical equipment and report those problems to a supervisor or the appropriate employee
  • Ability to conduct routine water quality tests and read meters and charts accurately, and record results
  • Ability to perform environmental science calculations and to keep detailed records
  • Ability to receive and carry out instructions provided by a supervisor

Requirements
Physical Requirements
This is heavy work requiring the exertion of 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Work requires climbing, balancing, stooping, crouching, reaching, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, and repetitive motions. Vocal communication is required to express or exchange ideas. Hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels. Visual acuity is required for visual inspection involving small defects and/or small parts, use of measuring or testing devices, assembly of equipment, operating plant equipment including motor vehicles, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work performed, and observing general surroundings and activities
Education and Experience
Minimum education qualification for all levels is graduation from high school or GED equivalency. Some experience with basic laboratory bench work; prior experience in a water treatment facility is desired. Must have a North Carolina certificate at the Surface Water Operator "C" level or ability to obtain within one year of employment. Some high school or college coursework in environmental science, physics, and chemistry is desired.
Special Requirements
  • Valid North Carolina driver's license
  • Certified in first aid and CPR

Please visit our to learn more about benefits offered at the City of Newton.
01
Which Surface Water Treatment Certifications do you currently possess?
  • A- Surface
  • B- Surface
  • C- Surface
  • Operator-in-Training
  • None

02
Have you ever worked in a laboratory setting?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Please list all the science courses you have completed (for example - biology, chemistry, earth science or please list none if you have not completed any)
04
In the event that you're hired, would you be willing to attend classes and sit for State exams for water treatment certifications?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Are you available to work nights, holidays & weekends?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Have you ever worked in a quality control or quality assurance position?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Please list all the math courses you have completed (for example - geometry, algebra I or II, statistics, calculus or please list none if you have not completed any)
Required Question

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