ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Plant Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

University of Oregon

Utility Plant Operator

Eugene, OR · On-site

$40.03 - $61.37/hr

Utility Plant Operator Job no: 536784 Work type: Classified Staff Location: Eugene, OR Categories ... Utilities and Energy (U&E) provides steam, chilled water, electricity, and other district energy ...

University Of Oregon

Utility Plant Operator

Eugene, OR · On-site

$40.03 - $61.37/hr

Utility Plant Operator Apply now Job no: 536784 Work type: Classified Staff Location: Eugene, OR ... Utilities and Energy (U&E) provides steam, chilled water, electricity, and other district energy ...

CRH

Plant Operator

Lakeview, OR · On-site

Plant Operator Americas Cement Lakeview, Oregon, United States Job ID: 527697 Eco Material Technologies, a CRH Company, is a leading producer of sustainable cement alternatives in the U.S. It is the ...

CRH

Plant Operator

Lakeview, OR · On-site

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 ...

City of Albany

Water Treatment Operator

Albany, OR · On-site

$58K - $74K/yr

Inspects, monitors, and adjusts plant process equipment and instruments; assists with preventive ... Water Treatment Operator II Includes all the aforementioned duties as wells as the following ...

City of Albany, OR

Water Treatment Operator

Albany, OR · On-site

$27.18 - $34.59/hr

Water Treatment Operator II: $29.12 - $37.11 * Water Treatment Operator III: $31.75 - $40.52 ... Inspects, monitors, and adjusts plant process equipment and instruments; assists with preventive ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Jobs in Oregon

Water Plant Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$31.2K

$62.3K

$104.1K

How much do water plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator in Oregon is $62,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $71,400.00 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.
More about Water Plant Operator jobs

What are popular job titles related to Water Plant Operator jobs in Oregon?

For Water Plant Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Water Plant Operator jobs in OR?

For Water Plant Operator jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Water Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,258 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Water/Wastewater Plant Operator I

Cow Creek Band of The Umpqua Tribe of Indians

Canyonville, OR • On-site

$65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Posting: Water/Wastewater Plant Operator I

Job Description

The Umpqua Indian Utility Cooperative invites applications for the role of Water/Wastewater Plant Operator I. This full-time position is crucial for managing and operating the facilities responsible for water and wastewater treatment. Successful candidates will join a dedicated team striving to maintain and enhance the quality of our community's water resources in accordance with environmental standards and tribal regulations. The role requires a dynamic, responsible individual who is not seeking a remote job opportunity, as the nature of the work necessitates hands-on participation at the Tribe's physical facilities.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Assist with and operate pumps, valves, and gates to control the flow of water or effluent.
  • Learn and assist with routine servicing and cleaning of water storage facilities, plants, and pipes, and learn to repair faults in water supply and storage systems.
  • Develop an understanding of and an ability to service the distribution system leading from the treatment plant.
  • Become skilled at regulating water flow through stages of treatment such as filtering, the addition of chemicals, and aeration.
  • Train to understand and monitor flow meters, pressure gauges, power usage, and effluent water quality.
  • Develop the ability to inspect and monitor reservoirs, dams, facility operations, and equipment to ensure proper operations, assuring quality control.
  • Study and learn to read meters, gauges, and other monitoring equipment and interpret readings to determine processing requirements.
  • Assist with adjusting automated controls and instruments, operating valves, and gauges to adjust the flow and treatment process.
  • Learn and assist with performing routine, preventative, and corrective maintenance on equipment, including disinfection equipment.
  • Order parts and supplies and maintain automated records of equipment repairs, parts list, and inventory.
  • Collect samples for laboratory analysis and gain knowledge to interpret results and prepare records and reports.
  • Respond to emergency situations and alarms.
Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED Certificate required.
  • Vocational / Technical or associate degree, preferred.
  • At least one (1) year of experience in maintenance or a mechanical/ chemical repair position.
  • Aptitude for learning chemistry, mathematics, and science.
  • Ability to learn and understand Federal regulations and requirements.
  • Capable of gaining knowledge and understanding of applicable requirements concerning plant operations and water quality.
  • Valid driver’s license and meets qualifications for our Company’s Driver’s policy.
  • Oregon Health Authority Level 2 Treatment Water Operator Certification required within 2 years of obtaining Level 1 Treatment Water Operator Certification.
  • UIUC is in the process of obtaining a federally approved certification program for Grade 1 and Grade 2 Wastewater Treatment Certification. Upon implementation of a federally approved certification program, Grade 1 Wastewater Treatment Certification would be required within six months and Grade 2 Wastewater Treatment Certification would be required within 3 years of obtaining a Grade 1 Wastewater Treatment Certification.
  • Failure to obtain the Level 1 and Level 2 certification within the allotted time frames will result in separation of employment.

POSITION OPEN UNTIL FILLED. TO APPLY PLEASE GO TO THE COW CREEK WEBISTE

Benefits Offered:

  • Nesika Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Benefit - Eligible the first of the month following 60 days of employment
  • Short Term/Long Term Disability - Company paid
  • 401K – 7% Tribal Contribution - Eligible first quarter following 90 days of employment
  • 15K Life Insurance policy – Company paid
  • Flexible Spending Account – Up to $3400.00
  • Recuro Care (Telemedicine) – Company paid with Nesika medical enrollment
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Fuel Discount Card – .20 cents off a gallon at the Seven Feathers Truck & Travel Center
  • Costco Reimbursement – up to $65.00 per year
  • PTO – Hourly employees begin accruing upon the first day of employment and the hours are available after 90 days, with a cap of 480 hours
  • Years of Service Recognition