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Water System Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

RK Industries, LLC

Treatment System Operator

Denver, CO · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Description As a Water Treatment System Operator you'll help keep our water clean, safe, and flowing. In this hands-on role, you'll assist with the installation, operation, and maintenance of ...

RK Mechanical

Treatment System Operator

Denver, CO

$22 - $27/hr

As a Water Treatment System Operator you'll help keep our water clean, safe, and flowing. In this hands-on role, you'll assist with the installation, operation, and maintenance of advanced water ...

City of Aurora

Water Utility Lead

Aurora, CO · On-site

$30.64 - $38.30/hr

  • Retirement

Troubleshooting, identifying and repairing water system concerns * Providing customer service during routine and emergency situations * Provides, prepares, maintains maintenance records and reports ...

FutureRecruit

Water Resources Engineer- Boulder, CO

Boulder, CO · Hybrid

$88K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Technical proficiency with Excel and an understanding of the Colorado water rights system is ... other water rights operators § Keeping track of multiple water operations across a large ...

Gunnison County, Colorado

Water/Wastewater Operator

CO · On-site

$56K - $97K/yr

The position also works with pumps, motors, valves, SCADA systems, instrumentation, and other ... Water/Wastewater Operator Classification Requirements Classification Certification Minimum ...

select

Operator - Water Transfer

Fort Lupton, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems from water sources to customer frac jobs. Water Transfer employees work on crews and are ... operating, and rigging down jobs safely. Their work is laborious and performed outdoors in all ...

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All JobsWater System Operator JobsWater System Operator Jobs in Colorado

Water System Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$15

$32

$52

How much do water system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water system operator in Colorado is $32.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.74 and $38.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What is a water system operator?

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 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.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Water System Operator jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Water System Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Water System Operator jobs in CO?

For Water System Operator jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Water System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water System Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,666 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Water & Sewer System Operator I or II

Town of Johnstown

Johnstown, CO • On-site

$26.91 - $41.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Come be part of a team and an organization where what you do matters!

The Town of Johnstown, Colorado is actively recruiting a Water & Sewer System Operator to be part of our dynamic and passionate team. Our friendly neighborhoods, excellent public services, and quality shopping centers are just a few reasons why many people choose to live and work in Johnstown. With a current population of 22,000, Johnstown is one of the fastest-growing communities in Northern Colorado. Every role has the potential to positively impact our community.

The Water & Sewer System Operator is responsible for daily operation, maintenance, and emergency repair of the Town’s water distribution system and wastewater collection system infrastructure. Johnstown's water systems include a raw water transmission system, a potable distribution system, 1 treatment plant, 2 elevated tanks, 3 pump stations, 5 pressure zones, and 8 PRV’s. Johnstown’s wastewater system includes the wastewater collection system, 2 treatment plants, and 2 lift stations.

There is currently one opening within the department. We will consider an entry level candidate or a candidate with previous experience installing, maintaining, or repairing sewer collection and/or water distribution lines. The ideal candidate would have a minimum of one year of experience working in water distribution, wastewater collection, or a related field, with a CCWP Class 2 certification in Water Distribution, and CCWP Class 2 Sewer Collection certification, and a Class A CDL with airbrake and tanker endorsements. See the attached job descriptions for a more detailed description of position responsibilities and requirements.

The Town is committed to supporting the professional growth of its employees, offering comprehensive training and ongoing professional development opportunities.

Expected hiring range: $26.91 - $35.53/hour, depending upon experience.

Applications accepted through August 16, 2026

Apply at: www.johnstownco.gov/jobs


The Town of Johnstown provides generous benefits including vacation, holiday, sick time, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plan contributions, and health savings accounts.

The Town of Johnstown is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection be based on job-related factors. Reasonable accommodation will be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.