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Water Systems Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Purpose The Water Operator performs routine functions associated with the daily operations of a water production and distribution system. Duties include daily checks of wells, pumps, lift stations ...

$35/hr

Based on Experience Are you an experienced Injection Well Operator , Industrial Wastewater Professional , or someone with a strong background in environmental compliance and water systems? Waste ...

$35/hr

Based on Experience Are you an experienced Injection Well Operator , Industrial Wastewater Professional , or someone with a strong background in environmental compliance and water systems? Waste ...

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Bentonville, AR · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Our system for rewards is designed to recognize staff as they move along a path to success. Bonuses ... Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Bentonville, AR · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

Our system for rewards is designed to recognize staff as they move along a path to success. Bonuses ... Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Wastewater Operator SS (B Shift)

Gentry, AR · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Takes water samples on a regular basis to compare with what the standard is and ships it to the ... Completes weekly cleaning of the system; orders chemicals as needed. Participates as a member of ...

Wastewater Operator SS (B Shift)

Gentry, AR · On-site

$17.75 - $24.50/hr

Takes water samples on a regular basis to compare with what the standard is and ships it to the ... Completes weekly cleaning of the system; orders chemicals as needed. Participates as a member of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Water Systems Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$12

$25

$40

How much do water systems operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water systems operator in Arkansas is $25.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $30.00 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 is a water systems operator?

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?

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.

How much do water systems operators make?

Water systems operators in Michigan typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the water system. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Are water systems operators in high demand?

Water systems operators are generally in high demand due to the ongoing need for maintaining and operating water treatment and distribution systems. The job often requires technical skills, certifications, and the ability to work in various environments, which contribute to steady employment opportunities in the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Water Systems Operator jobs in Arkansas?

For Water Systems Operator jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Systems Operator jobs in Arkansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Systems Operator jobs in Arkansas are:

Infographic showing various Water Systems Operator job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,212 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Water and Wastewater Treatment Operators / Field Technicians

Project Solutions Inc.

Little Rock, AR • On-site

$20.75 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 hours ago


Job description

Location:  Region 4 - Mississippi Basin
Period of Performance:  June 2, 2026 through June 1, 2027 with four -one year options

Join a team of ever-growing professionals who look to make a difference on projects both domestically and internationally. Our organization is growing, and we believe your career should too.

Project Overview: 

Project Solutions Inc. is seeking a qualified Water and Wastewater Treatment Operators / Field Technicians to provide nationwide water and wastewater utility operations, maintenance, and repair services, including certified operator support, preventive maintenance, regulatory compliance, sampling, inspections, and emergency repairs at NPS-managed facilities. The contract is intended to ensure uninterrupted, compliant, and safe operation of potable water, wastewater treatment, water distribution, and wastewater collection systems across parks and territories.

This role is contingent upon award of project.

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Operate and monitor potable water and wastewater treatment systems to ensure safe, continuous, and compliant utility services 
  • Perform routine, preventive, and corrective maintenance on treatment plants, distribution systems, collection systems, pumps, valves, lift stations, and related infrastructure 
  • Conduct regulatory sampling, testing, analysis, and reporting in accordance with federal, state, and local requirements and permit conditions 
  • Maintain accurate operator logs, maintenance records, inspection reports, compliance documentation, and monthly operational reports 
  • Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair equipment failures, system malfunctions, alarms, and operational deficiencies to restore system performance
  • Operate and maintain SCADA, control, monitoring, and instrumentation systems, responding promptly to alarms and performance issues 
  • Conduct asset inspections, condition assessments, seasonal startup/winterization activities, and identify corrective actions to maintain system reliability 
  • Ensure compliance with EPA, OSHA, Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), NPDES permit requirements, and applicable state and local regulations while coordinating activities with NPS personnel and the COR

Required Education, Skills, and Abilities:

Education/Certification:

  • Valid state-issued Water Treatment, Distribution, or Wastewater Operator License (Class I or higher) 
  • 2–3+ years of hands-on experience in water or wastewater system operations

Experience:

  • Minimum 3 years of field experience operating and maintaining potable water systems, including treatment and distribution infrastructure 
  • Minimum 3 years of field experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment or disposal systems 
  • Experience operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting water treatment systems, including chlorination, filtration, distribution, and related utility infrastructure 
  • Experience operating and maintaining wastewater treatment systems, including lift stations, septic systems, lagoon systems, and treatment processes 
  • Experience performing routine operations, preventive maintenance, corrective maintenance, inspections, and emergency repairs on utility systems and equipment 
  • Experience conducting regulatory sampling, process control testing, water quality monitoring, analysis, and compliance reporting 
  • Experience using SCADA, remote monitoring, instrumentation, and control systems to monitor performance and respond to alarms or operational issues 
  • Experience working independently at remote field locations while maintaining detailed operator logs and complying with federal, state, and local regulatory and safety requirements.

Key Attributes & Skills: 

  • Strong knowledge of potable water and wastewater treatment system operations, maintenance, and repair activities 
  • Ability to monitor, operate, and troubleshoot treatment processes, distribution systems, collection systems, lift stations, septic systems, and lagoon systems 
  • Proficiency in performing regulatory sampling, process control testing, water quality monitoring, and compliance reporting 
  • Ability to operate and respond to SCADA, remote monitoring, instrumentation, and control systems 
  • Ability to read and interpret schematics, piping diagrams, operator logs, maintenance manuals, and technical documentation 
  • Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulatory requirements, including environmental, water quality, and wastewater compliance standards 
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills with the ability to respond to alarms, system malfunctions, operational anomalies, and emergency repair situations 
  • Ability to work independently at remote field locations while maintaining detailed records and adhering to health, safety, and environmental protection protocols.

What Does PSI Offer You?

  • Three options for medical plans plus dental and vision insurance offerings
  • 24/7 healthcare access to telehealth services for your convenience
  • HSA
  • Company life insurance options for you and your family
  • Short-term and long-term disability offerings
  • PLUS an $800 monthly allowance is provided to offset your PSI insurance premium costs
  • 401(k) with a 4% employer match
  • Generous PTO, paid-federal holidays, and sick leave
  • Always the opportunity for professional development

The information contained herein is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job, nor are they intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Benefit offerings subject to change.
Project Solutions, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, women, individuals with disabilities, protected veterans and minorities are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 
EEO/M/F/Vets

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