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Water Plant Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

CENTRAL PLANT OPERATOR

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$19.80 - $26/hr

The Central Plant Operator is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of chilled water systems and associated equipment across UAB's Central Plants and outlying facilities. This ...

Treatment Plant Operator I

Mobile, AL · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

General Information This is routine work in operating a wastewater or water treatment plant and allied appurtenances while on an assigned shift. Jurisdictions Yearly Salary Mobile Area Water and ...

Plant Operator Pay: $29.00/hour Industry: Sand & Gravel / Aggregate Production We are seeking a dependable Plant Operator to operate and monitor a rock crushing plant. This position is responsible ...

Overview A Plant Board Operator is responsible for managing the flow of oil, natural gas, and other ... water levels. * Replace filters, oil, chemicals, and other lubricating fluids as needed, and ...

A Plant Board Operator is responsible for managing the flow of oil, natural gas, and other fossil ... water levels. * Replace filters, oil, chemicals, and other lubricating fluids as needed, and ...

Overview A Plant Board Operator is responsible for managing the flow of oil, natural gas, and other ... water levels. * Replace filters, oil, chemicals, and other lubricating fluids as needed, and ...

Overview A Plant Board Operator is responsible for managing the flow of oil, natural gas, and other ... water levels. * Replace filters, oil, chemicals, and other lubricating fluids as needed, and ...

R10094859 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Decatur, AL - Finley - Filling industrial How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the ...

R10094859 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Decatur, AL - Finley - Filling industrial How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the ...

The Plant Operator's ability to respond by use of effective mechanical, electrical, process or support systems skills is critical for success in this position. Job Responsibilities * Promote safe ...

Water Quality Operator

Daphne, AL · On-site

$18.36 - $47.57/hr

WATER QUALITY OPERATOR (PAY IS COMPENSABLE TO OPERATOR CERTIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE LEVEL) Daphne ... Must be able to operate various machinery, equipment and tools associated with plant operations ...

WATER QUALITY OPERATOR (PAY IS COMPENSABLE TO OPERATOR CERTIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE LEVEL) Daphne ... Must be able to operate various machinery, equipment and tools associated with plant operations ...

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Water Plant Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$26.7K

$53.4K

$89.3K

How much do water plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator in Alabama is $53,373.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,700.00 and $61,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water plant operator?

Water Plant Operators are professionals responsible for running and maintaining water treatment plants. They manage the equipment and processes that treat and distribute water for public consumption or industrial use. Their duties include monitoring water quality, conducting tests, adjusting chemical levels, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Water Plant Operators play a critical role in providing safe, clean water to communities.

What does a water plant operator do?

The job duties of a water plant operator include working to operate and maintain a water plant. Your responsibilities in this job revolve around monitoring pumping equipment and ensuring proper water treatment. You may need to repair or facilitate the repair of equipment to keep water supply flowing. You usually collect sample data and test the water to ensure quality and safety. You are often responsible for ensuring the proper flow of water through filtering equipment, and you may clean filters and fill treatment chemicals as needed. Most plant operators need to keep a log of their activities on a daily basis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water plant operator?

To thrive as a Water Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, safety regulations, and relevant environmental standards, often backed by a high school diploma and state-specific operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing instruments, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for monitoring systems and responding to issues. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient delivery of clean water to the community.

What are some common challenges faced by water plant operators in maintaining regulatory compliance?

Water Plant Operators often face challenges in keeping up with evolving environmental regulations and ensuring all treatment processes consistently meet strict water quality standards. This involves regular monitoring, accurate record-keeping, and prompt adjustments to chemical dosages or equipment settings. Operators must also be prepared to troubleshoot unexpected equipment malfunctions or respond to weather-related changes that affect water quality. Staying current with training and technological advancements is essential to successfully manage these compliance responsibilities.

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

AspectWater Plant OperatorWater Treatment Technician
CertificationsWater operator license, state certificationWater treatment certification, state license
Work EnvironmentWater treatment plants, distribution systemsWater treatment facilities, field sites
Job FocusOperating and maintaining water treatment equipmentMonitoring, testing, and troubleshooting treatment processes

Both roles involve working in water treatment facilities and require similar certifications. Water Plant Operators typically oversee the entire treatment process and plant operations, while Water Treatment Technicians focus more on testing, monitoring, and troubleshooting equipment. Both positions are essential for ensuring safe, clean water and often share similar work environments and industry usage.

How much do water treatment plant operators make?

Water treatment plant operators in Texas typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the facility. Salaries can vary based on location, with additional pay for overtime, night shifts, or specialized skills such as SCADA system operation.

Is being a water plant operator a good job?

Water plant operators are responsible for maintaining and operating water treatment facilities to ensure safe drinking water. The job typically requires technical skills, certifications, and adherence to safety standards, and offers stable employment with opportunities for advancement. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and environmental protection.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Plant Operator jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Water Plant Operator jobs in Alabama are:

What job categories do people searching Water Plant Operator jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Plant Operator jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Water Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Water Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator job openings in Alabama as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,373 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Water Plant Operator Apprentice

Madison County Commission

Huntsville, AL

$47K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Overview Assists the certified Water Plant Operators with all phases of water treatment work, as directed by supervisor, to learn the practices, procedures, techniques, and regulations of water treatment. Essential Duties and Responsibilities (This job description is only intended to reflect the general nature and duties of the position and may not include all essential functions.) Monitors treatment plant operations to assure proper purification of water. Detects and reports indications of system malfunctions

Monitors and makes prescribed laboratory analysis of raw and finished water. Observes Plant Operators as they make routine adjustments of chemical feeders and other equipment to obtain the desired product in the most economical way. Keeps records of laboratory analysis, chemicals used, gallons treated, etc.

Makes reports and calculations as prescribed by the Chief Operator. Makes routine inspection of plant, reporting any malfunctions to the Plant Operator. Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience Education and Experience Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from a standard high school Knowledge, Skill, and Abilities Knowledge of a laboratory and laboratory equipment. Ability to operate chemical feed pumps, electrical controls, motor starters and water test instruments. Ability to use a computer and operate a vehicle.

Other Requirements Physical Requirements Cannot be color blind. Must be physically capable of lifting up to 50 lbs. and able to climb steps and ladders.

Must also be willing to work in inclement weather as required and work rotating shifts that may vary in duration. Certifications or Licenses Required Must obtain the Alabama Department of Environmental Management Grade III water certification within one year. Work Schedule Rotating Shifts - 42 hrs.

per week To be considered for this position, all applicants must complete the employment application in full. Madison County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer that encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Madison County is a drug-free workplace and conducts drug and alcohol testing.