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Water Systems Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

This position must be able to inspect distribution or collection systems for leaks and perform ... Water Operator OR AL- Grade IV Water Operator Physical Requirements Field- based role. Work ...

... water systems and 360 wastewater systems. Purpose of the Job Imagine being part of a team that ... a dependable Water Operator Grade IV to join our team and play a crucial role in our Field ...

... water systems and 360 wastewater systems. Purpose of the Job Imagine being part of a team that ... a dependable Water Operator Grade IV to join our team and play a crucial role in our Field ...

... water systems and 360 wastewater systems. Purpose of the Job Imagine being part of a team that ... a dependable Water Operator Grade IV to join our team and play a crucial role in our Field ...

Cleans systems by backwashing at designated intervals * Records reservoir water elevation, power ... operating conditions, meters, and gauges to determine load requirements and detect problems

CENTRAL PLANT OPERATOR

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$19.80 - $26/hr

The Central Plant Operator is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of chilled water systems and associated equipment across UAB's Central Plants and outlying facilities. This ...

BOILER OPERATOR

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$21.80 - $29.33/hr

Boiler Operator The posting is intended to describe the general content and requirements of this ... systems, control systems, water treatment equipment, and associated mechanical and electrical ...

Overview The Equipment Operator is responsible for operating any or all required construction ... Installing and repairing all phases of plumbing systems; potable water, sanitary water and vent ...

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Showing results 1-20

Water Systems Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$13

$28

$44

How much do water systems operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for water systems operator in Alabama is $28.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $32.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Water Systems Operators face in ensuring water quality compliance?

Water Systems Operators often encounter challenges such as keeping up with evolving regulatory standards, managing aging infrastructure, and responding to unexpected equipment malfunctions. They must diligently monitor water quality through regular testing and documentation to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Adapting to new technologies and coordinating with maintenance teams to address issues promptly are also important aspects of the role. Staying organized and proactive is key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining safe, reliable water services for the community.

What is the difference between Water Systems Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater Systems OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires state-specific water operator licensesRequires similar water treatment certifications, often the same licenses
Work EnvironmentMaintains water distribution systems, pumps, and pipelinesOperates and monitors water treatment processes at treatment plants
Industry UsageUsed in municipal, industrial, and rural water systemsPrimarily employed in water treatment facilities

Both roles require water operator licenses and involve maintaining water quality. Water Systems Operators focus on distribution systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators manage treatment processes. The roles often overlap, but their primary responsibilities differ based on the work environment.

What are Water Systems Operators?

Water Systems Operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining water treatment, distribution, and wastewater facilities. They ensure that water is safe to drink, complies with regulatory standards, and that wastewater is treated properly before being released back into the environment. Their duties include monitoring equipment, conducting tests, making adjustments to treatment processes, and responding to system malfunctions or emergencies. They play a critical role in protecting public health and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Systems Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Systems Operator, you need knowledge of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent along with state-issued operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, chemical dosing equipment, and regulatory compliance software is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of water systems, protecting public health and meeting regulatory standards.
Infographic showing various Water Systems Operator job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,327 per year, or $28 per hour.
Operator Water IV

Operator Water IV

Southwest Water Company

Birmingham, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Who We Are
Nexus Water Group is a leading regulated water and wastewater utility serving more than 1.3 million people across 12 U.S. states and 2 Canadian provinces.
"Nexus" means connection. Through the essential water and wastewater services we deliver, we have a very personal connection to the people, businesses, and communities we serve. This is why our operations are locally led and managed. Every day, over 1,200 professionals deliver vital, safe, and reliable service through over 670 water systems and 360 wastewater systems.
Purpose of the Job
Imagine being part of a team that supplies the essential element for life. Water is the very foundation of this planet, the life-giving essence in all of us. Driven, knowledgeable, and passionate about this essential resource, the Alabama Water Utilities team, a subsidiary of Nexus Water Group, is in the business of delivering a product everyone uses and depends on.
As part of our ongoing commitment to operational excellence, we are seeking a dependable Water Operator to join our team and play a crucial role in our Field Operations department. Must be familiar with industry-standard analyses such as chlorine residual, pH, dissolved oxygen, and suspended and total solids. This position must be able to inspect distribution or collection systems for leaks and perform routine distribution system flushing. Operates sewage treatment, sludge processing, and disposal equipment in wastewater (sewage) treatment plant to control flow and processing of sewage.
What We Offer
  • 401k Company Match
  • Vacation Accrual: Starting at 3 weeks per year
  • Holidays: 10 company-paid holidays per year
  • Floating Time: 16 hours of paid floating time per year
  • Sick Time
  • Additional Benefit Plans include Medical, Dental, Vision, Company-Paid Life Insurance, and more
  • Training, Professional Certifications, and Education Allowance

Job Responsibilities
Reasonable Accommodations Statement
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Operates and maintains the water treatment facilities as required by city, state, and federal guidelines;
  • Performs daily analyses of effluent samples; makes necessary adjustments to keep facility within permit limits; Makes operational adjustments as needed to comply with state and federal water quality standards
  • Adjusts chemical treatment to ensure water quality standards are met.
  • Assists with water and wastewater line repairs, new line installation, and other work as directed.
  • Inspect and maintain pumps, motors, valves, and other plant equipment in working order, troubleshooting problems as they arise.
  • Respond to and investigate customer service calls. Complete customer service work orders, updates, and maintains activity with required documentation, and closes work orders in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.
  • Performs routine tests on water treatment facilities, including tests related to treatment process, chemicals, pumps, motors, and routine water quality sampling. Collect and analyze appropriate readings of gauges and meters;
  • Conducts routine testing, monitoring, and maintenance of production wells, water/wastewater unit processes, and basic laboratory analyses.
  • Performs and documents the treatment process and maintenance of treatment facility equipment.
  • Documents plant performance, including daily flow, well meter readings, and chemical dosage and usage.
  • Other duties assigned.

Competencies
Delivering High Quality Work
Supporting Coworkers
Communicating Effectively
Working Safely
Certifications
AL- Grade III Water Operator
OR
AL- Grade IV Water Operator
Physical Requirements
Field- based role.
Work Experience
License: Grade III or IV Certification in Water Treatment
Education: Requires advanced vocational skills and knowledge of water and wastewater operations and management, which may be acquired by obtaining certifications in Water and Wastewater Operations.
About Our Company
We are a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state, or local law.
We are an E-Verify participating employer.