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Water System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SANTEE COOPER

WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR

Santee, SC · On-site

$33.35 - $41.65/hr

Water System Operator A * High school diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance + 5 years experience required. * Associates degree preferred. * Must ...

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Washington City

Water System Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$63K/yr

May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a project-by-project basis. Supervision Exercised: None Essential Functions: Water: Operates various ...

Washington City

Water System Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a project-by-project basis. Supervision Exercised: None Essential Functions: Water: Operates various ...

Sacramento County, CA

Water System Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$81K - $98K/yr

Under direction, Water System Operators perform work in connection with the operation, maintenance, construction, and repair of water distribution systems, water treatment facilities, water wells ...

City of San Luis, AZ

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

OPERATOR I Under immediate supervision performs basic installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of water distribution system. * Assist and operate specialized equipment, machines, and ...

City of San Luis

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

OPERATOR I Under immediate supervision performs basic installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of water distribution system. Assist and operate specialized equipment, machines, and vehicles ...

Revolution Company

Water System Operator

Flint, MI · On-site

Revolution is now hiring for a Night-Shift Water System Operator position in Flint, MI. This role will be responsible for overseeing and maintaining the water treatment system supporting the wash ...

Misti Pett

Water System Operator

South Paris, ME · On-site

$60K/yr

Monitors chemical systems. Collects samples for water testing. Adjust metering pumps as needed. Switch chemical totes as required. Monitor water flow by clearing small jams in water lines using water ...

Nucor

Water System Operator

Lake Panasoffkee, FL · On-site

$60K/yr

Monitors chemical systems. * Collects samples for water testing. * Adjust metering pumps as needed. * Switch chemical totes as required. * Monitor water flow by clearing small jams in water lines ...

Nucor

Water System Operator

Lake Panasoffkee, FL

$60K/yr

Monitors chemical systems. * Collects samples for water testing. * Adjust metering pumps as needed. * Switch chemical totes as required. * Monitor water flow by clearing small jams in water lines ...

City of Torrance, CA

WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR II

Torrance, CA · On-site

$6.7K - $7.7K/mo

The City of Torrance is recruiting for a Water System Operator II t o be part of the Public Works Department's Torrance Municipal Water Division Team! The Department The Public Works Department ...

Misti Pett

Water System Operator

South Paris, ME · On-site

$60K/yr

Monitors chemical systems. Collects samples for water testing. Adjust metering pumps as needed. Switch chemical totes as required. Monitor water flow by clearing small jams in water lines using water ...

The city of Marietta

Water System Operator 2026

Marietta, GA · On-site

$20.75 - $23.67/hr

Must have a high school diploma or GED and minimum experience of at least one year as an Apprentice System Operator or equivalent water and wastewater construction experience, to include skill in the ...

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Water System Operator information

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$14

$30

$49

How much do water system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for water system operator in the United States is $30.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $36.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water system operator is responsible for maintaining and operating water treatment and distribution systems, often requiring technical skills and certifications. The job offers stable employment, competitive wages, and the opportunity to work outdoors or in a plant environment, making it a valuable career for those interested in public health and infrastructure. Career advancement and ongoing training are common aspects of the role.

What are some common challenges faced by Water System Operators in maintaining regulatory compliance?

Water System Operators often encounter challenges in keeping up with evolving regulations and ensuring that all testing, monitoring, and reporting requirements are met consistently. This may involve staying updated with local, state, and federal water quality standards, managing the documentation of water sampling, and responding quickly to any detected issues. Operators must also balance routine maintenance with emergency repairs, all while coordinating with team members and regulatory agencies. Proactive communication and ongoing training are key to successfully navigating these challenges.

How much do water operators make in the US?

Water system operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, with experienced operators or those in supervisory roles earning higher. Salaries can vary based on location, level of certification, and the size of the water system they manage.

What are Water System Operators?

Water System Operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining the equipment, processes, and infrastructure that treat and distribute drinking water or process wastewater. They monitor water quality, operate pumps and valves, test samples, and ensure that water systems comply with government regulations. Their work is essential for public health and environmental protection, as they help provide safe, clean water to communities and manage wastewater disposal.

What do I need to become a water operator?

To become a water system operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training, and often a state-issued certification or license. Experience with water treatment processes, pumps, and safety protocols is also important, and some positions require ongoing education to maintain certification.

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

To thrive as a Water System Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and basic mathematics, typically supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water testing equipment, and compliance documentation is essential for daily operations. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond to emergencies and collaborate with team members. These skills ensure safe, reliable water delivery, regulatory compliance, and protection of public health.

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

AspectWater System OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater operator licenses, state-specific certificationsWater operator licenses, state-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentWater distribution systems, pipelines, reservoirsWater treatment facilities, filtration, chemical handling
Industry UsageMunicipal water supply, public utilitiesMunicipal water treatment, industrial facilities

Both roles require similar certifications and often work within municipal water systems. The main difference is that Water System Operators focus on maintaining and operating water distribution networks, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in treating water at treatment facilities. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path within the water industry.

Where do water treatment operators make the most money?

Water system operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for water infrastructure, such as urban areas or states with extensive water treatment needs. Factors like experience, certifications, and the size of the water system also influence earning potential.
More about Water System Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Water System Operator jobs? Cities with the most Water System Operator job openings:
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What states have the most Water System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Water System Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Water System Operator jobs? For Water System Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Water System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water System Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,351 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR

WATER SYSTEM OPERATOR

SANTEE COOPER

Santee, SC • On-site

$33.35 - $41.65/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Santee Cooper rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Position Description:
Operates, troubleshoots, and helps maintain all water systems process equipment. Must be able to work rotating shifts. Must be well versed and knowledgeable of all State/Federal safe drinking water regulations to ensure safe, reliable drinking water at all times. Is required to possess and maintain a valid South Carolina Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator "A" license due to regulatory requirements.
Essential Job Tasks:
  • Treats and distributes safe, reliable potable drinking water that meets all SCDES and USEPA standards to the Lake Marion Agency members. This job task includes the monitoring, analyzing, and changing of chemical dosages or other treatment methods based on raw water conditions, regulatory requirements, laboratory testing, as well as optimization and pilot studies.
  • Mentors and provides guidance and on-the-job training to new Operators as assigned.
  • Collects and analyzes water and wastewater samples.
  • Maintains laboratory bench sheets.
  • Maintains logbook records and monitors all water treatment/distribution instrumentation on SCADA system.
  • Determines from analytical data what operational adjustments need to be made to the drinking water/distribution system.
  • Assists and coordinates day-to-day operations with Lake Marion Water Agency members with regards to water quality and delivery.
  • Supports all internal/external team members on daily goals and work activities.
  • Starts up and shuts plant down; checks, cleans, and maintains filters, valves and machinery; loads chemicals into automatic feeder systems, calibrates equipment and verifies feed rates.
  • Inspects buildings and process equipment and writes work orders for maintenance and repair work.
  • Prepares shift turn over sheets with in- or outgoing operators. Answers the telephone, starts emergency generator equipment, and manages power usage during normal operations as well as physical/economic curtailments.

*Will consider Water System Operator A or B
Position Requirements:
Water System Operator A
  • High school diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance + 5 years experience required.
  • Associates degree preferred.
  • Must a have SC LLR Class "A" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license.
  • SC "A" Water Distribution Operator license preferred within 4 years of employment.
  • Confined Space Entry and other Safety Training required.

Compensation Information:
$33.35 - $41.65 (min. - mid.)
Water System Operator B
  • High school diploma/GED with additional technical courses related to water plant operations/maintenance + 3 years experience required.
  • Associates degree preferred.
  • Must have a SC LLR Class "B" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license.
  • SC LLR "A" Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator license and "A" Water Distribution Operator license preferred within 4 years of employment as a WSO B.
  • Confined Space Entry and other Safety Training required.

Compensation Information:
$30.05 - $37.55 (min. - mid.)

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