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Water Systems Operator Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Water/Wastewater Operator (I-III)

Vineyard, UT · On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

Monitor the collection system, including surveying and repairing manholes, clearing obstructions, and operating heavy equipment for sewer maintenance. Collect mapping data for underground utilities ...

Equipment Operator - Water Division

Logan, UT · On-site

$21.90 - $25.77/hr

... including water system maintenance. Responsibilities: Operates dump truck, crew truck and other ... Knowledge of the functions operating methods and care required for a wide variety of small to ...

$45.55/hr

... water systems. Monitors Metasys System to identify and respond to alarms. 3. Identifies equipment maintenance issues using testing devices, blueprints, drawings, instruction and operation maintenance ...

Showing results 21-40

Water Systems Operator information

See Utah salary details

$13

$28

$45

How much do water systems operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for water systems operator in Utah is $28.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $33.03 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 job categories do people searching Water Systems Operator jobs in Utah look for?

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

Infographic showing various Water Systems Operator job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,583 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Water Department Superintendent

Washington City

Washington, UT

$82K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Title: Water Department Superintendent Department: Public Works Division: Water

Annual Pay Range: $82,865 - $103,581 (DOE)


GENERAL PURPOSE

Performs a variety of general administrative and first-line supervisory duties related to the construction, installation, maintenance, and repair of city water distribution systems, including lines and connections, hydrants, pump stations, and operational duties related to overseeing daily operations of the city water treatment plant and water production system, including wells, springs, etc.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under general supervision of the Water Operations Project Manager.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Provides close to general supervision to Water Distribution Supervisor, Water Treatment Supervisor and AMI technicians/meter readers providing direction and assistance as needed on a day to day basis; also serves as the direct supervisory role of System Operator(s) IV, III, II, I Water Treatment Operator(s) IV, III, II, I during absences of Water Distribution and/or Water Treatment Supervisor.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Assists in the overall general management of the division; assists with budget development and makes recommendations for capital improvements and equipment acquisition; helps monitor department expenditures to assure compliance with fiscal constraints and guidelines; recommends administrative policies and standard operating procedures; receives and coordinates various service requests; establishes project priorities; Oversees the daily project and work activities of the Water Plant and related production operations within the City including all aspects of the culinary water system, water purification and treatment; prioritizes and schedules projects such as well house construction and repair, treatment plant maintenance, pump maintenance and installation. Lines up project and crew, delegates work assignments; oversees work quality and assures timely completion of assigned projects; determines needed materials and equipment; coordinates efforts with other department divisions; makes field decisions as needed to remedy problems and emergencies; directs cleaning of reservoirs, etc.; manages interactions with public; conducts field training as needed to enhance crew efficiency and effectiveness.

Supervises Treatment Plant and Water distribution personnel; implements department policy and rules; informs personnel of new procedures and policy changes; makes recommendations affecting employment status, including retention, advancement, discipline and termination.

Assists in the development of department budget; purchases supplies, chemicals and materials used in the installation and /or repair of the water systems; assists in monitoring expenditures of the division.

Coordinates, assigns and performs water sampling duties; schedules various sampling locations and establishes sampling routine; collects samples and assures timely delivery to state labs.

Coordinates ongoing programs and training related to providing a safe working environment for the Water Division.

Oversees daily treatment of water sources with chlorine; monitors processes and procedures to assure safe and efficient treatment; assures proper concentrations of chemicals.

Maintains production records; prepares monthly, quarterly, and annual reports; reviews monthly water samples and sends the report to the E.P.A. and the Board of Health; implements changes to achieve the desired results; ensures reports are completed accurately and completely.

Serve as a project leader; reviews emergencies and makes decisions related to project design, water system requirements, traffic control methods and the maintenance of pressure zones; performs general troubleshooting.

Oversees and assists with installation or repair of water service connections and pipelines; performs water line repairs, repair or replacement of pressure regulators and fire hydrants; repairs water mains; supervises cleaning and maintenance of storage tanks; conducts water sampling.

Responds to emergency calls twenty-four hours a day; assists in determining necessary personnel and materials needed to resolve problems; assists in maintaining daily records of all work performed.

Coordinates "blue stake" projects to assist contractors and property owners to dig and access service lines safely; participates in work zone safety procedures; flags oncoming vehicles to protect the public and workers; sets up warning signs and signalization equipment.

Assists in monitoring division supplies; conducts inventory of parts and equipment; reports results to supervisor.

Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Education and Experience: . A. Graduation from high school; plus two (2) years of specialized training and the completion of level "IV" Water Distribution Operator Certification and "IV" Water Treatment Certification as well as prior DRC status with State DDW

AND

B. Ten (10) years of experience in construction, maintenance or repair of water distribution systems;

OR

C. An equivalent combination of education and experience

2. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Considerable knowledge of water supply and distribution systems; surface drainage and water collection practices; principles of supervision; construction requirements for water distribution and pumping systems; hazards associated with water treatment chemicals; hazards and precautions associated with trench work and water line construction; state or federal regulations governing installation and maintenance of water systems; water quality laws; considerable knowledge of budget preparation and fiscal management-working knowledge of interpersonal communication skills.

Ability to analyze water system(s), identify problems, and determine optimum solutions; make accurate decisions in emergencies where consequences of error could be costly; communicate effectively verbally and in writing; plan and organize work of subordinate personnel; evaluate employee performance and make related decisions for the good of city service; enforce related policies, procedures, regulations, and standards without partiality; develop effective working relationships with public and private managers, department heads, subordinates, and the public

  1. Special Qualifications:

Must possess a class IV Water System Operator certification. Class IV Water Treatment certification. Must possess a valid commercial driver's license. Must be able to lift 50-75 pounds. Must be willing to work on-call duty and 24-hour standby.

  1. Work Environment:

Tasks require a variety of physical activities, generally involving muscular strain, related to walking, standing, stooping, sitting, and reaching. Talking, hearing, and seeing are essential to performing required job functions. Common eye, hand, and finger dexterity exist. Mental application utilizes memory for details, verbal instructions, emotional stability, and discriminating thinking. Daily local travel required in the normal course of job performance.


As per Washington City policy and/or procedures, a background check, and drug screening evaluation will be required for potential new hire candidates prior to an offer of employment. I understand that if I am under the age of 18, I must have my parent or my legal guardian grant their permission for the background check and drug screening test to be performed.