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Water Systems Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Kimley-Horn

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Portland, OR · On-site

$23 - $31.75/hr

... systems, and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Portland, OR

$23 - $31.75/hr

... systems, and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Portland, OR

$23 - $31.75/hr

... systems, and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Solvenow Inc.

Operator-in-Training

Ontario, OR · On-site

Operate and maintain water and wastewater treatment plants, including their treatment systems and ... To assist the Operator II in maintaining the disposal area Buffer Zones, farm roads, and fences.

City of Salem, OR

Pumps & Controls Supervisor

Salem, OR · On-site

$7.6K - $10K/mo

... Water Treatment Operator Level 1, 2, 3, or 4 certifications * Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Wastewater Collection Systems Operator and/or Wastewater Treatment Level 1, 2, 3, or 4 ...

City of Salem

Pumps & Controls Supervisor

Salem, OR

... Water Treatment Operator Level 1, 2, 3, or 4 certifications Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Wastewater Collection Systems Operator and/or Wastewater Treatment Level 1, 2, 3, or 4 ...

Willamette University

Boiler Operator

Salem, OR · On-site

Maintains water treatment program for boilers and closed loop systems. * Checks, observes, and ... general operating conditions. * Schedules and prepares boilers for internal and external ...

Solvenow Inc.

Operator II

The Dalles, OR

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

... systems of a hazardous waste groundwater treatment facility on an assigned shift. * Learns and ... Measure water and oil levels in monitoring wells * Transfer oil from oil/water separators to ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsWater Systems Operator JobsWater Systems Operator Jobs in Oregon

Water Systems Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$15

$32

$52

How much do water systems operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for water systems operator in Oregon is $32.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $38.37 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 Oregon? For Water Systems Operator jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Systems Operator jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Water Systems Operator jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Water Systems Operator jobs? Cities in Oregon with the most Water Systems Operator job openings:
Water Systems Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Systems Operator job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,037 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Kimley-Horn

Portland, OR • On-site

$23 - $31.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

Kimley-Horn rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 446 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
Kimley-Horn has an opportunity for a motivated Practice Leader to expand our Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice in Portland, OR! As a Practice Leader, you'll be at the helm of leading water/wastewater projects while strategically driving growth within the water practice. With significant autonomy, you'll have the opportunity to shape the vision for practice expansion while mentoring a talented team and fostering strong client relationships.
Responsibilities
  • Manage, lead, and expand practice teams for multi-discipline projects and programs of work in the fields of water/wastewater treatment projects, water and wastewater pumping systems, and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection)
  • Has an entrepreneurial spirit and create a vision for growth for the local water resource practice and beyond
  • Given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business
  • Leadership responsibilities include:
    • Operating with integrity and sound business principles
    • Providing vision, business planning and strategy
    • Establishing goals
    • Building and maintaining positive client relationships
    • Having open communication with your partners and team
    • Growing and leading a Water/Wastewater and Utilities practice
  • Our Project Managers/Practice Builders manage their projects profitably, transition work to qualified staff, grow and mentor staff, and act as a positive leader and mentor
  • The successful candidate will be given a great deal of autonomy to lead, direct, and grow their business
  • With success, this individual will enjoy the rewards of an impressive bonus program with the potential to advance to ownership

Qualifications
  • 15+ years of civil engineering, design, and management of utility water projects experience
  • Registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) license
  • Client contacts and relationships with local municipalities, area counties, water management authorities and local, regional, state agencies
  • Business development skills and the proven ability to win work
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and technical skills
  • Strong desire and ability to be engaged with clients solving project problems
  • Ability to effectively communicate positively at all levels of the organization
  • Ability to manage and mentor staff and direct resources effectively in a positive manner
  • Demonstrated ability to manage projects profitably

Salary Range:
  • Based on Experience
  • Eligible for Lucrative Performance Based Bonus Compensation

Why Kimley-Horn?
At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!
Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn
  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Kimley-Horn logo

About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967

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