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Water System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mohave County

Water Systems Operator

Kingman, AZ

$46K - $56K/yr

Enrollment in Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS). Contribution rate of 11.98% with 100 ... Water Systems Operator: Three years with Water System Operations experience including. High School ...

Mohave County, AZ

Water Systems Operator

Kingman, AZ · On-site

$46K - $56K/yr

Enrollment in Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS). * Contribution rate of 11.98% with 100 ... Water Systems Operator: Three years with Water System Operations experience including. * High ...

Reworld

Water Systems Operator

West Wareham, MA

Maintain the water system equipment including but not limited to cleaning strainers/baskets ... Understanding and following operating procedures for the system. Monitoring the demineralizers, pre ...

Reworld

Water Systems Operator

Wareham, MA · On-site

Position Responsibilities: • Maintain the water system equipment including but not limited to ... operating procedures for the system. • Monitoring the demineralizers, pre-treatment, RO, and ...

City of Madera

Water System Worker I

Madera, CA

$44K - $56K/yr

Primary Responsibilities The Water System Worker I is the entry level class in the Water System Operator series. Incumbents perform semiskilled and skilled duties in the testing, cleaning ...

City of Garland Texas

Water Systems Operator I

Apollo, PA · On-site

$19.37 - $24.96/hr

Summary This position is an "Operator in Training (OIT)" responsible for learning how to operate ... This position monitors the integrity of the Water Distribution System and provides 24-hour/7-day ...

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Water System Operator information

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$14

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$49

How much do water system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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.

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 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 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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,351 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

DEP Certified Drinking Water System Operator

Sanatoga Water Conditioning In

Pottstown, PA • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a currently certified PA DEP Certified Drinking Water System Operator. Alternately, we would be willing to hire a qualified applicant at a lower rate that is NOT certified on the agreement that that person will obtain the certificate within 1 year of employment. Click here info on the certificate: 
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Maintain our existing PWS systems
Monthly or Quarterly Operator checks for some systems
Monthly testing as specified by DEP requirements
Monthly reporting to DEP via DWELR
Write and update SOPs
Must be available for emergencies for the systems that you manage
Quote and sell new equipment for DEP regulated customers
Maintain your certification