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How much do water reclamation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for water reclamation in the United States is $22.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Reclamation Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Reclamation Specialist, you need strong knowledge of water treatment processes, environmental regulations, and a background in environmental science or engineering, often with relevant certifications such as a state wastewater treatment operator license. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for monitoring operations and responding to issues. These competencies ensure safe, efficient treatment of wastewater, environmental compliance, and protection of public health.

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

AspectWater ReclamationWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater Reclamation Certification, Wastewater Treatment LicenseWater Treatment Operator License, Wastewater Certification
Work EnvironmentRecycling facilities, wastewater treatment plantsWater treatment plants, municipal facilities
Job FocusRecycling and reuse of wastewater for environmental and industrial purposesOperating and maintaining water treatment systems for potable water supply

Water Reclamation and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles both involve wastewater and water management, often requiring similar certifications. However, Water Reclamation focuses on recycling wastewater for reuse, while Water Treatment Plant Operators primarily ensure safe drinking water production. Both roles are vital in water industry operations and share overlapping skills and work environments.

What are some common challenges faced by water reclamation specialists on the job?

Water reclamation specialists often encounter challenges such as managing complex treatment systems, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and responding quickly to system malfunctions or unexpected water quality issues. The role frequently involves troubleshooting mechanical and chemical processes, coordinating with engineers and maintenance staff, and maintaining detailed records for regulatory reporting. Staying current with evolving technologies and best practices is also essential for success in this dynamic and impactful field.

What is water reclamation?

Water reclamation is the process of treating wastewater so it can be reused for various purposes, such as irrigation, industrial processes, or even replenishing groundwater. This process involves removing contaminants and impurities from used water through physical, chemical, and biological treatment methods. The goal is to make the water safe and suitable for its intended reuse, reducing the demand on freshwater resources and promoting environmental sustainability.
More about Water Reclamation jobs
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What states have the most Water Reclamation jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Reclamation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Reclamation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Reclamation jobs are:
Water Reclamation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Reclamation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,210 per year, or $22.7 per hour.
Water Reclamation Operator II

Water Reclamation Operator II

City of Hamilton, Ohio

Hamilton, OH

$67K - $78K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

General Description THIS IS AN INTERNAL POSTING. ONLY CURRENT CITY OF HAMILTON EMPLOYEES WHO ARE IUOE, LOCAL 20 MEMBERS ARE ELIGIBLE TO APPLY. ALL OTHER APPLICANTS WILL BE REJECTED.

This is skilled technical work as lead shift operator of the Water Reclamation Plant. The employee is responsible for shift operations of an activated sludge water reclamation plant. Duties require a thorough understanding of a wide variety of mechanical and chemical processes and related equipment as well as an awareness and alertness to the safety hazards inherent in various stages of the treatment process.

Supervision is exercised over Water Reclamation Operators I. All work is performed under the general supervision of the Water Reclamation Superintendent. Work is characterized by employment on rotating shifts, some of which may be solitary.

Essential Job Functions Makes routine checks of entire plant on shift; takes and records readings, checks a large number and variety of motors, pumps, gas meters, air and gas compressors, supernatant selectors, sludge scrapers, gasoline engines, electrical panels, air conditioners, grit collectors, heating units and heat exchangers; and checks a variety of other gauges, charts and equipment. Takes specific samples and makes specific readings every hour throughout tour of duty; reads flow meter charts and measures samples. Runs a variety of tests in plant laboratory such as total solids, suspended solids, fixed solids, volatile solids, settable solids, dissolved oxygen content, five-day biochemical oxygen demand, sludge indices and percentages.

Chlorinates flow from plant to river, runs chlorine residual tests and keeps logs to indicate level of chlorination. Makes a variety of adjustments and running repairs; refers major repair to maintenance staff. Gives general supervision to the work of Water Reclamation Operators I and insures that appropriate safety precautions are being observed.

Maintains a variety of records and logs and prepares and submits reports of plant operations. Performs related work as required. Skills/Knowledges/Abilities Considerable knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a large activated sludge water reclamation plant.

Considerable knowledge of a variety of hydraulic, chemical and mechanical principles pertinent to the operation of an activated sludge Water Reclamation Plant. Considerable knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the work. Ability to inspect machinery and mechanical equipment in operation, to detect flaws and to effect appropriate remedial measures.

Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions and diagrams. Ability to keep records and prepare and submit reports. Ability and willingness to use a variety of safety devices such as safety harnesses, respirators, eye protection, special gloves, and related equipment.

Mechanical aptitude and good general intelligence. Skill in the operation and care of the tools and equipment appropriate to the work. Coursework in Sanitation or Water Reclamation.

Knowledge of OSHA and Ohio Public Employee Risk Reduction Program (OPERRP) regulations and standards. Knowledge of SCADA Systems, excel spreadsheets, and common computer applications. Training/Education/Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Possession of a Class II certificate in Water Reclamation (Wastewater), as issued by the State of Ohio and a minimum of (3) years of operating experience in a Water Reclamation Plant; or Possession of a Class I certificate in Water Reclamation (Wastewater), as issued by the State of Ohio and six (6) months experience as a Water Reclamation Operator I within the City of Hamilton Water Reclamation Division (Class Code 341); and Must obtain a Class II certificate for Water Reclamation (Wastewater) issued by the State of Ohio within twelve (12) months of appointment.

Full Class II certification must be maintained.

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