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Water System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BENTELER Group

Operator-Water Systems

Shreveport, LA · On-site

Preventative maintenance of water systems. * Perform maintenance on utilities within water systems to assure equipment efficiency. * Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Water, Compressed Air, Piping, etc. * Be ...

City of Duluth

Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

Operators are essential to the day-to-day monitoring, operation, and maintenance of this system. Important Application Information At this time, we are accepting applications for both Water Plant ...

City of Duluth, MN

Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$69K - $84K/yr

Operators are essential to the day-to-day monitoring, operation, and maintenance of this system. Important Application Information At this time, we are accepting applications for both Water Plant ...

City of Duluth, MN

Senior Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$78K - $95K/yr

Operators are essential to the day-to-day monitoring, operation, and maintenance of this system. Important Application Information At this time, we are accepting applications for both Water Plant ...

City of Duluth

Senior Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN

$78K - $95K/yr

Operators are essential to the day-to-day monitoring, operation, and maintenance of this system. Important Application Information At this time, we are accepting applications for both Water Plant ...

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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:
Who are the top companies hiring for Water System Operator jobs? The top employers for Water System Operator jobs are:
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.

Operator-Water Systems

BENTELER Group

Shreveport, LA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Division: BENTELER Steel/Tube 
Functional Area: Maintenance 
Career Level: Professional 
Contract Type: Permanent/Full-time 
Weekly Working Hours: 40,00 
Required Languages: English 
Requisition ID: 45308 

Benefits: United States : 401(k) Match || United States : Dental || United States : Development || United States : Educational Assistance || United States : Flexible Work Schedules || United States : Health Savings Accounts || United States : Holidays || United States : Life & Disability || United States : Medical || United States : Training || United States : Vacation || United States : Vision || United States : Wealth Management Support 

At BENTELER, we make it possible. From promoting individual talents to international career prospects, or from generous opportunities for designing your career to personal development opportunities-at BENTELER, we always have answers to your questions about the future, based entirely on your personal needs. Diverse options that makes sure you can be anything and everything. Or, as we like to put it: BENTELER makes it happen!

Job Responsibilities

  • Assist in the development and implementation of work procedures, PM's and LOTO.
  • Participate in plant 5S and Lean manufacturing programs as well as all continuous improvement activities in the water systems department.
  • Preventative maintenance of water systems.
  • Perform maintenance on utilities within water systems to assure equipment efficiency.
  • Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Water, Compressed Air, Piping, etc.
  • Be an active participant of developing and maintaining a culture of professionalism.
  • Responsible for following all rules, policies, or expectations.
  • Coordinate effective repairs and maintenance on equipment utilizing SAP.
  • Coordination with mill maintenance and electrical teams for major maintenance activities in water systems.
  • Communicates any utility supply outages with shift maintenance and operations personnel.

Job Requirements

  • High School, GED or equivalent.
  • Post-secondary diploma or degree in a technical field is preferred.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in maintenance activities is preferred.
  • Previous experience working with water systems, pumps, HMI, pneumatics, hydraulics, reporting and communicating down day, outage and breakdown activities is a huge plus.
  • Seamless Pipe Mill Experience a huge plus!
  • Ability to organize and explain complex data in a clear manner.
  • Rigging.
  • Hydraulics.
  • Pneumatics.
  • Pipefitting.
  • Equipment removal and Installation.
  • Equipment rebuilds "In house".
  • SAP & general computer knowledge preferred.
  • Operation of lifts and cranes required for maintenance activities in the water systems areas.
  • Knowledge of water treatment process and chemicals.

Your contact

Samantha Ann Metoyer 
BENTELER Human Resources
Phone: +1 318 216-4187 

Apply