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Water Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WATER PLANT OPERATOR

Cudahy, WI ยท On-site

$28.78 - $35.50/hr

Directly to Lead Purification Plant Operator. Indirectly to Water Manager. PURPOSE OF POSITION: Under general supervision, performs all work during an assigned shift necessary for the proper ...

Water Plant Operator C

Clearwater, FL ยท On-site

$44K - $71K/yr

Position Overview Under general supervision, Water Plant Operators perform certified and skilled work in the 24-hour operation of an interlinked, tri-county network of water treatment plants ...

Water Plant Operator I

Miami, FL ยท On-site

$53K - $83K/yr

This position is non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act and reports to Chief Water Plant Operator. Examples of Duties Follows a daily sequence of tasks as assigned and responds to assignment ...

Water Plant Operator II

Miami, FL ยท On-site

$59K - $92K/yr

This position is non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act and reports to Chief Water Plant Operator. Examples of Duties Works with a daily sequence of tasks to be performed, performs assigned ...

Section 1 - Position Summary Under the direction of the Lead Control Room Operator, Lead Water Plant Operator(s), Shift Supervisor and/or the Plant Supervisor (depending on the size and scope of the ...

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Water Plant Operator information

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$29.5K

$58.9K

$98.5K

How much do water plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator 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, 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.

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 Water Plant Operators?

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 cities are hiring for Water Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Water Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Water Plant Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Water Plant Operator jobs? The top employers for Water Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Water Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Plant Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 3% 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

WATER PLANT OPERATOR

City of Cudahy

Cudahy, WI โ€ข On-site

$28.78 - $35.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Summary REPORTS TO: Directly to Lead Purification Plant Operator. Indirectly to Water Manager. PURPOSE OF POSITION: Under general supervision, performs all work during an assigned shift necessary for the proper operation and maintenance of the water treatment plant, pump station, and related facilities.

Also performs other maintenance and laboratory duties as directed by supervisors. Essential Duties and Responsibilities ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Operate, inspect and maintain pumps, clearwells, reservoirs, settling basins, filters, engines, electric motors, and all water treatment plant mechanical and electrical equipment.. Perform maintenance functions such as adjusting, lubricating, painting and cleaning equipment

Monitor chlorine residuals in the water. Notify Water Utility Manager or Lead Purification Plant Operator in the event of major breakdowns. Determine most efficient plant operation parameters by observing and interpreting treatment results.

Record plant performance on designated forms or enter into computerized database. Make periodic inspections during the work shift of the various operating stations of the water treatment plant. Read and record information and statistical data secured from recording charts and gauges.

Log operational functions and monitor system pressures and make pump adjustment if necessary. Assist in unloading of chemicals and supplies. Perform all work of a janitorial nature in an assigned area.

Perform plant maintenance and carry out specific assignments ordered by the Water Utility Manager or Lead Purification Plant Operator relating to routine maintenance of equipment, housekeeping, and chemical deliveries. Obtain all required water samples from both the raw water and the filtered water systems. Analyze water samples for potential bacteriological contamination and all other possible contaminants as required by State and Federal regulations.

Check concentrations and determine proper dosages of all chemicals added to the water such as chlorine, hydrofluosilicic acid, polyaluminum chloride, aluminum sulfate, polyphosphate, powdered activated carbon, etc. Prepare all necessary laboratory media and reagents, clean and sterilize laboratory glassware and equipment, and maintain the laboratory in accordance with all specifications of the Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services. Take the necessary actions to obtain emergency repair people in the event of major equipment failures at the water treatment plant or pump station.

Receive notification of distribution system emergencies and contact the appropriate personnel to ensure that the problem is investigated. Work split, swing or alternating shift as assigned by the Water Utility Manager due to the needs arising in the Water Utility. Ensure that all work is performed in a safe manner and maintain a high standard of good housekeeping.

Complete all necessary forms and reports following established practices. Ensure that all tools and equipment are in a safe operating condition. Repair pumps, valves, motors, electrical equipment, meters, and all other equipment associated with the water pump station and treatment plant.

Notify affected customers of pumping interruptions. Exercise plant valves. During non-working hours, receive notification of emergencies at the pump station or treatment plant requiring immediate attention.

Operate treatment plant computer control system and make minor operational changes to the control system as required. Regular, predictable and punctual attendance as required. Perform any and all related duties as assigned.

The essential functions are not limited to those stated and shall include completing any & all forms and performing any and all related duties as assigned. Qualifications REQUIREMENTS OF WORK: Ability to apply technical knowledge & interpret technical instructions/regulations. Deal with abstract and concrete variables.

Ability to respond to emergency work during non-working hours, work in anon-traditional work week & shift and be willing to work the hours required in order to maintain the water treatment system. Ability to follow detailed direction, work independently within scope of assignment and knowledge, and make decision as required. Ability to maintain effective and pleasant communication, oral and written, and present information with supervisors & co-workers.

Comprehend, follow and explain technical water distribution principles. Ability to work independently; exercise initiative, resourcefulness and good judgment. Ability to understand written & oral work orders, rules and operating guidelines Ability to be resourceful and thorough & demonstrate problem solving skills Ability to read, write, and perform basic mathematical & analytical computations Ability to operate a computer and utilize basic software programs Dependability and ability to work well with others and to display the proper attitude toward supervision.

Basic mechanical ability that requires maintenance of water treatment equipment Ability to organize and maintain accurate records. Knowledge and experience in basic skills employed in a water plant. EDUCATION/LICENSE/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: High School graduation or equivalent Associate degree in Water Chemistry desirable Wisconsin Driver's License and good driving record.

Must possess an S-1 waterworks operator certification from the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources or be able to obtain the necessary certification within 12 months of employment. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF POSITION: Standing, walking and sitting. Stooping, kneeling and crouching.

Climbing using legs and feet, balancing, bending and twisting. Reaching, feeling, talking and hearing.. Far vision at 20 feet or further and near vision at 20 inches or less with glasses if needed

Lifting, carrying, pushing/pulling objects weighing 50 pounds. Handling, grasping and fingering as needed to operate hydraulic controls, control objects with the hands, write, and operate switches. ENVIRONMENTAL/WORKING CONDITIONS OF POSITION: Normal inside workplace environment with protection from weather conditions.

Outside workplace environment. Exposure to extreme cold or heat in addition to normal temperature changes. Exposure to wet and/or humid conditions.

Exposure to loud noise and vibration from the operation of tools and machinery. Exposure to hazardous conditions such as chemicals, mechanical, electrical, burns and heights. Exposure to atmospheric conditions such as fumes, gases, noxious odors, dust, and poor ventilation.

Physically confined worksite; cramped, small or restricted making it difficult to stand, sit or walk. EQUIPMENT USED: Calculator, computer, telephone, copy machine and other standard office equipment. Automobile and truck.

Measuring devices, meters and other analytical equipment. Hand tools and power tools such as saws and sanders. Confined space entry equipment.

First aid equipment. Breathing apparatus, steel tip shoes, and hearing and eye protection. MEDICAL: All applicants will be required to submit to a medical examination, including drug testing, prior to appointment.

Work hardening and psychological testing may also be included as part of the medical exam. Testing shall be consistent with the requirements of the position. If appointed to the position, periodic random and for cause drug/alcohol testing may be performed.

WAGES: Set per ordinance annually by City of Cudahy Common Council. WORK SCHEDULE: This position works a shift of 4 days on - 2 days off & 5 days on -2 days off. Weekends make up the work schedule.