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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

$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 ...

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CRH

Plant Operator

Lakeview, OR

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 ...

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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 Aug 22, 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.
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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 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,258 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Water Treatment Plant Operator III

CITY OF LINCOLN CITY

Lincoln City, OR

$33.30 - $42.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Water Treatment Plant Operator III-Full Time

Wages: $33.30 - $42.50 (Grade 12, Non-Exempt)

AFSCME Union Represented

OPEN UNTIL FILLED

First Look: August 24, 2026

Lincoln City has a great opportunity to work with Public Works in the Water Treatment Plant! Water Treatment Plant Operators perform various duties required to operate and maintain the City's Class III Water Treatment Plant in compliance with regulatory agency requirements. Operators protect public health and the environment by providing safe, potable drinking water to the community.

Successful candidates must be available for on-call rotation with weekend maintenance, and the ability to respond to an emergency onsite within 30 minutes.

TO APPLY:

  • Complete the City's online application at www.lincolncity.org
  • Resume required
  • Cover letter required-include a cover letter with your resume that explains your interest in the position and highlights your qualifications

All required items must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on August 24, 2026, to be included in the first application review process.

Questions about recruitment should be directed to:

Nina Graham, Human Resources Supervisor

ngraham@lincolncity.org

541-557-1139

Apply