ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water System Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

City of Katy

Water Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

Water Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water ... Performs service calls to check for water leaks throughout the water system; provides aid to ...

City of Katy

Water Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

Water Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water ... Performs service calls to check for water leaks throughout the water system; provides aid to ...

City of Houston

Sideloader Operator (SWM)

Houston, TX

$20.52 - $525/hr

Essential job duties and responsibilities for the (Sideloader Operator) includes but not limited to: Operate a side loader or rear loader truck to collect and transport waste material from assigned ...

JSW Steel USA

Operator - Wastewater

Baytown, TX · On-site

$21/hr

... water systems related procedures to ensure uninterrupted availability of various water systems • Responsible for proper functioning of the potable system and wastewater system • Perform necessary ...

SouthWest Water Company

Water/Wastewater Operator

Magnolia, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $25.75/hr

Overview The Water/Wastewater Operator performs routine checks of water and/or wastewater treatment systems; responsible for compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local rules/regulations ...

Southwest Water Company

Water/Wastewater Operator

Magnolia, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $25.75/hr

Overview The Water/Wastewater Operator performs routine checks of water and/or wastewater treatment systems; responsible for compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local rules/regulations ...

Inframark

Water Operator II

Houston, TX · On-site

At Inframark, we manage and maintain municipal water and wastewater systems, ensuring clean, safe ... Inframark is currently seeking a skilled Operator II in our Houston TX Water Pump Station project.

H2O Innovation Inc.

Water & Wastewater Operator

Spring, TX · On-site

$19.25 - $26.75/hr

H2O Innovation is seeking a new Water & Wastewater Operator to join our team in the Houston, TX ... Conduct regular inspections of the collection and distribution systems as well as the treatment ...

City of Katy

Water Utility Technician

Katy, TX · On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

As a Water Operator, you will help ensure the continuous delivery of safe drinking water to our community by monitoring wells and treatment systems, repairing infrastructure, conducting inspections ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater System Operator JobsWater System Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Water System Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$13

$29

$47

How much do water system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for water system operator in Houston, TX is $29.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $34.66 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 near Houston, TX are hiring for Water System Operator jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Water System Operator job openings:
Water System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water System Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,425 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Water Operator

City of Katy

Katy, TX • On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Water Operator - Public Works Department
The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This essential position plays a critical role in maintaining the safety, reliability, and quality of the City's water treatment and distribution systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in water utility operations, a strong commitment to public service, and the ability to perform a wide variety of maintenance, repair, and operational duties in both routine and emergency situations.
As a Water Operator, you will help ensure the continuous delivery of safe drinking water to our community by monitoring wells and treatment systems, repairing infrastructure, conducting inspections and testing, and responding to customer service needs. This position is considered essential critical infrastructure personnel and may be required to respond during emergencies, natural disasters, or catastrophic events to support the continuity of City operations.
If you are motivated, dependable, and ready to make a meaningful impact in your community, we encourage you to apply and become part of a team committed to excellence in public service.
Job Description:
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES: -- Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Monitors and maintains assigned wells; verifies wells are operating correctly; checks chlorination levels.
  • Repairs water main breaks and service lines; flushes, repairs, and replaces fire hydrants; rebuilds and repairs water meters.
  • Performs service calls to check for water leaks throughout the water system; provides aid to customers;
  • Turns water services on or off at City connections when starting and closing accounts.
  • Collects monthly required bacteriological samples; delivers samples to assigned laboratory for testing.
  • Operates water treatment plant; calculates the chlorine demand of raw ground water for proper disinfection; monitors and maintains chlorination system.
  • Gathers water usage readings for monthly billing; disconnects customers' water for non-payment of utility bills.
  • Inspects and cleans groundwater storage tanks; prepares tanks for State inspections.
  • Repairs and pours concrete driveways and sidewalks.
  • This position is considered Critical Personnel during a natural or manmade disaster and/or a catastrophic event. This position may be required to provide services or perform duties for the benefit of the public and the continuity of City operations. These may include services or duties different from those performed in the usual course and scope of this position.
  • For purposes of business continuity, employees in this position are considered Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers, as defined by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
  • Performs other duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education, Training and Experience Guidelines:
High school diploma or equivalent; AND two (2) years of water utility training and experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Knowledge of:
  • Department policies and procedures.
  • City codes and ordinances.
  • Water distribution and production systems.

Skill in:
  • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
  • Providing quality customer service.
  • Performing basic mathematical calculations.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Valid State Driver's License required; Class B Commercial Driver's License may be required.
  • Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator Class C license.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT: This position requires climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions. Exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Employee may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, fumes, odors, dusts, gases, poor ventilation, chemicals, oils, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, work space restrictions, and intense noises.
The City of Katy is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities and Amendments Act and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply