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Water Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

FEMA

Utility Systems Operator

Round Hill, VA

Maintaining accurate records of all phases of plant operations. Operating water treatment and sewage treatment facilities. Performing water treatment tests and measurements which require knowledge of ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... water management, air quality permits, wash out pits, treatment pits, and quarterly and annual ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... water management, air quality permits, wash out pits, treatment pits, and quarterly and annual ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... water management, air quality permits, wash out pits, treatment pits, and quarterly and annual ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... water management, air quality permits, wash out pits, treatment pits, and quarterly and annual ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... water management, air quality permits, wash out pits, treatment pits, and quarterly and annual ...

Complete Building Services

Plant Operator

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Operate and monitor boiler systems; support basic boiler water chemistry and treatment activities ... Experience operating boilers and/or chiller plant systems in a commercial/industrial environment.

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All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia

Water Plant Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$29.2K

$58.4K

$97.7K

How much do water plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator in Virginia is $58,380.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $66,900.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Water Plant Operator jobs in Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Water Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,380 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Water Plant Operator

Hot Springs, VA • On-site

Omni Hotels & Resorts
Traveler Accommodation • 10K+ employees

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 107 rated hotels

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers

Learn more about Omni Hotels & Resortsexternal

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa
The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa has been delighting vacationers - including 24 U.S. Presidents - for over 250 years. A recently completed $170 million dollar renovation restored the historic character to this Allegheny Mountain resort in
Virginia. We are a four-season resort that boasts superb restaurant dining experiences, championship golf, spa, winter sports and numerous other activities ideal for families and corporate outings.
The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa's associates enjoy a dynamic and exciting work environment, comprehensive training and mentoring, along with the pride that comes from working for a company with a reputation for exceptional service. We embody a culture of respect, gratitude and empowerment day in and day out. If you are a friendly, motivated person, with a passion to serve others, the Omni Homestead Resort & Spa may be your perfect match.
Overview:
To ensure the water treatment plant, supply and distribution system is well maintained and reflects an image of outstanding quality and to provide safe & clean water in accordance with federal, state & local legislation, policies & standards.
Responsibilities:
  • Maintain all aspects of the water treatment plant to ensure the availability of a clean and safe water supply.
  • Position requires Virginia Class 3 waterworks license
  • Maintain the treatment plant systems. Rotating remote monitoring schedule required.
  • Maintain & operate the filtering & chemical treatment processes.
  • Service & repair water treatment plant equipment including intakes, piping, storage vessels, chemical treatment equipment controls, pumps & valves.
  • Maintain water supply system to ensure adequate levels of water are available for treatment at all times of year and regardless of weather.
  • Maintain water distribution system to ensure safe and clean water is delivered to all customers with minimal interruption.
  • Aid plumbing team in maintaining water distribution system from water plant to the ends of the distribution system.
  • Order supplies, replacement parts and fuel for water treatment plant equipment.
  • Complete water tests and keep records.
  • Maintain appropriate chemical levels.
  • Ensure the operation of generators during power outages.
  • Read meters monthly.
  • Maintain daily logs.
  • Repair & maintain municipal water supply, including valves, piping, meters & hydrants.
  • Other duties as necessary

Tools and Equipment:
  • Computer, telephone, pen/pencil, printer/copier.
  • Power, shop & hand tools.
  • Test instruments.

Working Environment:
  • Interior of water treatment plant in a noisy environment
  • All areas of the resort property.
  • Exterior with exposure to all weather conditions.
  • Exposure to various hazardous chemicals.

Qualifications:
  • Must have and maintain a Virginia Class 3 Waterworks Operators License or higher.
  • Must be able to lifet up to 25 lbs.
  • Standing for long periods of time.
  • Must have valid drivers license

Omni Hotels & Resorts is an equal opportunity/AA/Disability/Veteran employer. The EEO is the Law poster is available using the following link:
EEOC is the Law Poster.
Omni Hotels & Resorts does not discriminate on the basis of any protected category with respect to the payment of wages.
If you are interested in applying for employment with Omni Hotels & Resorts and need special assistance to apply for a posted position, please send an email to: applicationassistance@omnihotels.com.

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