ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Menasha Utilities

Water Plant Operator

Menasha, WI

$35.09 - $48.12/hr

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 ...

City of Duluth

Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

Job Posting Information About the Water Plant The Lakewood Water Treatment Plant is responsible for treating and distributing the City of Duluth's drinking water, sourced from Lake Superior. This ...

HR Partners

KS · On-site

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 ...

New

City of Duluth, MN

Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

To be considered for the Water Plant Operator position, you must have a Minnesota Class "C" or "D" Water Supply System Operator's certification. To be considered for the Senior Water Plant Operator ...

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 ...

New

Lake Forest

Water Plant Operator

Lake Forest, IL

$76K - $104K/yr

No experience working at a water plant. No problem. If you have technical or mechanical skills, enjoy troubleshooting, and are willing to learn, this could be a great fit. If you are mechanically ...

City of Duluth

Senior Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$78K - $95K/yr

Job Posting Information About the Water Plant The Lakewood Water Treatment Plant is responsible for treating and distributing the City of Duluth's drinking water, sourced from Lake Superior. This ...

Menasha Utilities

Water Plant Operator

Manitowoc, WI · 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: 6/26/2026 4:00 PM Central ...

City of Duluth, MN

Senior Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$78K - $95K/yr

To be considered for the Water Plant Operator position, you must have a Minnesota Class "C" or "D" Water Supply System Operator's certification. To be considered for the Senior Water Plant Operator ...

City of Cudahy, WI

WATER PLANT OPERATOR

Cudahy, WI · On-site

$28.78 - $35.50/hr

Water Purification Plant, WI Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 00104 Department: WaterUtility Opening Date: 05/13/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Summary REPORTS TO: Directly to Lead Purification Plant ...

City of Dunedin

Lead Water Plant Operator

Dunedin, FL

$55K - $77K/yr

Reports to the Water Plant Manager Specific Duties & Responsibilities ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS The duties recorded below are representative of the duties of the class and are not intended to cover all ...

City of Dunedin, FL

Lead Water Plant Operator

Dunedin, FL · On-site

$26.74 - $32.09/hr

Reports to the Water Plant Manager. Specific Duties & Responsibilities ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS The duties recorded below are representative of the duties of the class and are not intended to cover ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Plant Jobs

Water Plant information

See salary details

$29.5K

$58.9K

$98.5K

How much do water plant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 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 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 $2000 a day?

Jobs in the water treatment industry that can pay $2000 a day typically include senior engineering roles, project managers, or specialized consultants with extensive experience and certifications. These positions often require advanced technical skills, management responsibilities, and sometimes long or irregular hours. Such high daily rates are more common in consulting, contract work, or executive-level positions within the industry.

What jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

Jobs in the water plant industry typically do not pay $5,000 a week without specialized skills or certifications. High-paying roles that reach this level often require advanced technical training, experience, or management positions, which may not be accessible without a degree. Generally, earning this level of income without formal education is uncommon in this field.

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 the production of safe drinking water. They perform tasks such as monitoring water quality, adjusting chemical levels, conducting tests, and performing routine maintenance, often following safety protocols and using tools like pH meters and filtration systems.

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:
What job categories do people searching Water Plant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Plant jobs are:
Water Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Plant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% 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

Menasha Utilities

Menasha, WI

$35.09 - $48.12/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Summary of Job This position is responsible for the operation of water treatment equipment, laboratory testing, and monitoring the water plant on an assigned rotating shift. 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, pumps, meters, filters, GAC contactors, UV reactors and other equipment.

Work is performed using independent judgment and taking corrective action to solve problems. Work is reviewed by supervisors through observation and results obtained Essential Duties and Responsibilities Control pressure and flow of water in the distribution system, adjust chemical dosages, backwash filters and GAC contactors, operate pumps, receive chemical deliveries, read gauges and instrumentation, record scale weights, collect samples, perform lab analysis, operate valves, adjust flows, and operate equipment using SCADA software Conduct visual inspections of equipment and the facility, perform preventive maintenance, assist with custodial work such as cleaning and maintaining facilities, utilize auxiliary power, and operate high-lift pumps Prepare and maintain records and reports Provide exceptional customer service, collaborate with others as a team, and execute additional tasks as required Qualifications Advanced knowledge of regulatory standards and industry best practices for surface water treatment processes and equipment. Perform routine preventive maintenance and scheduled equipment inspections to ensure optimal performance of water treatment assets Maintain Wisconsin DNR certification as a Class S-1 surface water treatment plant operator.

Must have the ability to obtain within six months Proficiency in diagnosing and resolving operational problems within the water treatment plant and distribution system Interpret laboratory results and adjust as needed Must be able to work rotating shifts, holidays, and weekends Comprehend verbal briefings and written instructions Manage and execute various laboratory assignments Knowledge of and ability to use emergency equipment and follow emergency procedures during urgent situations Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors and other employees Ability to perform heavy manual labor Computer literacy and the ability to operate various software programs Knowledge of hazards and safety precautions associated with the operation of a water plant Must possess and maintain a valid State of Wisconsin Driver's License Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities DESIRABLE EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Graduation from high school Graduation from a Water Technology college program Completed courses in chemistry and micro-biology Substantial experience in the operation and maintenance of a surface water treatment plant and distribution system. Consideration will be given to an equivalent combination of education and experience from the qualifications listed above

Apply