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Water System Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Denver, CO ยท On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... water systems * Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a clean driving record; position requires operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel ...

Water/Wastewater Project Manager

Colorado Springs, CO ยท On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... mining and water systems. We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a ... operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel Preferred:

Water Distribution Superintendent

Lakewood, CO ยท On-site

$97K - $121K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... system. This individual will oversee multiple supervisors and field crews while planning work ... Lead, mentor, and develop multiple supervisors, operators, technicians, and contractors responsible ...

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Denver, CO ยท On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... water systems * Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a clean driving record; position requires operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel ...

Water Utility Technician

Aurora, CO ยท On-site

$26.20 - $32.74/hr

  • Retirement

City and private water systems * Considerable knowledge of the operating characteristics of the various types of meters and remote meter systems * City geography and meter locations * Thorough ...

Water/Wastewater Project Engineer

Loveland, CO ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... mining and water systems. We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a ... operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel Preferred:

Water/Wastewater Project Engineer

Loveland, CO ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... mining and water systems. We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a ... operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel Preferred:

Water/Wastewater Project Engineer

Loveland, CO ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... mining and water systems. We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a ... operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel Preferred:

Asphalt Paving - Roller Operator

Denver, CO

$20 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The operator must have experience operating small to medium asphalt rollers. Must help crew ... Ensure the roller's water systems are properly drained at the end of shift in cold weather to ...

Supervisor Water Treatment Plant

Parshall, CO

$93K - $127K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In this role, you coordinate operations and maintenance activities for water and wastewater systems ... guidance and training to operators (create training plan, SOPs, etc.) Experience with asset ...

Showing results 41-60

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:

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 Treatment Process Engineer

RE/SPEC Inc.

Colorado Springs, CO โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Big challenges need bold thinkers.
If you're someone who sees problems as opportunities, you'll thrive here. RESPEC is 100% employee-owned, which means we take ownership of every challenge. Here, your ideas drive real solutions. Since 1969, we've tackled complex challenges in energy transition, infrastructure resilience, digital transformation, and sustainability.
At RESPEC, you'll work alongside clients to take on critical problems. Depending on your expertise, you might design infrastructure in remote locations, develop renewable energy solutions for global projects, or apply data-driven technology to improve mining and water systems.
We bring deep technical knowledge, real-world experience, and a commitment to work that matters. If you're looking for a place where your contributions have real impact, you'll fit right in.
Job Description
RESPEC seeks a Water Treatment Process Engineer in our Water market sector, located in Colorado Springs, Denver or Loveland.
The Water Treatment Process Engineer supports the planning, design, and delivery of municipal and industrial water treatment projects, including treatment process design, process hydraulics, facility upgrades, and process optimization. Responsibilities include conducting engineering analyses; developing technical reports, plans, specifications, and cost estimates; performing field investigations and data evaluations; and supporting the delivery of safe, reliable, and regulatory-compliant water treatment solutions.
Qualifications
Required:
  • Bachelor's or master's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related engineering field
  • Minimum of 4 years of experience
  • Professional Engineering (PE) Certification
  • Ability to interpret water quality and laboratory testing data to support treatment process evaluation and optimization
  • Working knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local drinking water regulations, codes, and industry standards related to planning, design, and operation of public water systems
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain a clean driving record; position requires operating a company or personal vehicle during work hours for business-related travel

Preferred:
  • Relevant professional training or certifications in water or wastewater treatment processes
  • Experience with planning and/or process evaluation for potable water treatment facilities
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD
  • Proficiency in WaterGEMS, WaterCAD, SewerGEMS, EPANET, or similar hydraulic modeling software
  • Manage multiple municipal water treatment projects through all phases of planning, design, implementation, and commissioning

Additional Information
Compensation: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Compensation includes a comprehensive health, dental and vision benefits package. RESPEC is a 100% employee-owned company and employees are eligible for participation in the EPP after a qualifying period.
Featured benefits include:
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • 401(k) & ESOP (with company match up to 4%)
  • Professional Development and Training
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.