ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Reclamation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

North Shore Water Reclamation District

IL · On-site

$23.75 - $30.50/hr

The District has three water reclamation facilities in Gurnee, Highland Park and Waukegan in Illinois with administrative offices located in Gurnee, IL. This position will be assigned to one of the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Reclamation Jobs

Water Reclamation information

See salary details

$14

$22

$34

How much do water reclamation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 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
What cities are hiring for Water Reclamation jobs? Cities with the most Water Reclamation job openings:
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,210 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Utility Aide Intern - Water Treatment and Water Reclamation

Employment Opportunities - Holland Board of Public Works

Holland, MI • On-site

$18/hr

Temporary

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Reports to: WRF Superintendent and WTP Superintendent

Job Summary: This position will assist the Water Reclamation and Water Treatment Operators and Maintenance with various operations and maintenance tasks and projects throughout the Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and Water Reclamation Facility (WRF).

This internship is part of the Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) Workforce Training program. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants are required to complete both of the following steps:

  1. Apply to the GRCC internship program:
    https://workforce.grcc.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do?method=load&courseId=1633840&selectedProgramAreaId=1038627&selectedProgramStreamId=substitution=

  2. Submit an application directly to HBPW for this position.

Applications that do not complete both steps may not be considered.

Program Overview

This is an entry-level training position in technical utility fieldwork designed for high school graduates and non-traditional students seeking a career in the water industry. Work assignments include rotations of various positions and training with water/wastewater staff to gain basic knowledge and understanding of the regular operations of the water/wastewater systems.

Interns in this position work 24 hours a week (Tuesday - Thursday, 7:00am - 3:30pm). Work in this position is performed under close guidance and supervision of a designated supervisor and/or mentor. Assigned staff and/or mentors will conduct check-ins during the 52-week program to ensure the success of the intern. The intern will be expected to complete courses through Grand Rapids Community College and Bay College to establish core competencies in both water/wastewater systems.

Successful completion of the program will lead toward Michigan Municipal Drinking Water and/or Municipal Wastewater certification(s).

The hourly rate for this position will be $18.00. The start date is scheduled for 8/25/26 and the position will end after 52 weeks.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Performing entry-level work in wastewater and/or water distribution systems
  • Rotations will include, but are not limited to Water/Wastewater Operations and Utility Maintenance Mechanic
  • Working locations will vary between the Holland BPW WTP, WRF and various field sites.

Essential Qualifications

  • Enrollment in the Water Career Program

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

  • Work includes proximity to environmental hazard associated with electrical, mechanical, and/or power equipment.
  • Work includes occasional exposure to fumes, odors, dust, dirt, and/or contact with chemicals or toxins.

Employment will be contingent upon favorable results of a background check, pre-employment physical and drug screening. Given our safety-sensitive industry, our workplace is alcohol and drug free (including marijuana and THC items).

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by a person assigned to this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties assigned to or required of this position.

Apply