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Water Systems Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Systems Monitor

Warren, MI ยท On-site

$83K/yr

The City of Warren is accepting applications for the position of Water Systems Monitor. Oversees and monitors plumbing installations to ensure compliance with the City's cross connection ordinances ...

Systems Operator General Information: Title: Systems Operator Status: Full-time, Non-exempt ... Water Fleet is a dynamic company revolutionizing the mobile potable and wastewater management ...

Systems Operator General Information: Title: Systems Operator Status: Full-time, Non-exempt ... Water Fleet is a dynamic company revolutionizing the mobile potable and wastewater management ...

As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career. Our benefits packages focus on ...

Water System Operator 2026

Marietta, GA ยท On-site

$20.75 - $23.66/hr

Apprentice Operator $17.00 - $19.40, System Operators $20.75 - $23.66 Status: Open Until filled ... systems. This position reports to an assigned Water and Wastewater Foreperson. * Repairs broken ...

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Water Systems Operator information

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$14

$30

$49

How much do water systems operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for water systems 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 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.
More about Water Systems Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Systems Operator jobs? Cities with the most Water Systems Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Water Systems Operator jobs? The top employers for Water Systems Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Water Systems Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Systems Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Systems Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,351 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Water Treatment Operator IV Supervisor (Exempt)

Navajo Tribal Utility Authority

Shiprock, NM โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

**This position will operate out of the Cutter Lateral Water Treatment Plant**

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

High School Diploma or GED Certificate.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil or Environmental Engineering.

New Mexico Environmental Department Class IV Water Systems Operator Certification.

4 years of experience operating potable water systems or 2 years of experience in Civil Engineering specific to water supply, water treatment, or wastewater systems experience.

2 years lead or supervisory experience.

Valid Driver's License (subject to motor vehicle record review).


JOB RESPONSIBILITIES AND PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:

Improves staff effectiveness by counseling, training and recommending disciplinary action for employees; planning, delegating, monitoring, and appraising job tasks and results in a timely manner.

Supervises personnel, which includes work allocation, time approval, hiring, training, orientation, and problem resolution; evaluates performance and makes recommendations for personnel actions; motivates employees to achieve peak productivity and performance.

Develop measurable performance expectations for assigned staff according to department goals and objectives.

Analyzes and resolves work problems. Initiates or suggests plans to motivate workers to achieve work goals.

Assigns daily duties and evaluates performance of workers.

Establishes or adjusts work schedules to meet maintenance schedules using knowledge of capacities of staff, machines and equipment. Maintains time and production records.

Follows up on status of projects and jobs.

Assists training programs supporting water O&M and operator certification.

Provides oversight of all activities associated with the operation and maintenance of assigned water systems.

Monitors the daily operation and maintenance of water treatment plant, water facilities, and the effluent quality of the treatment plant.

Performs visual checks of the plant, facilities, machinery, chemical levels, and related systems to ensure proper operations.

Detects or predicts equipment failures, potential leaks, or other problems.

Oversees and ensures compliance with the rules, regulations, and policies of enforcement agencies.

Ensures treatment compliance with established standards for appearance, repair, permits, and condition for water treatment facilities and distribution systems.

Operates, maintains, and monitors the following water treatment plant and equipment: coagulation, aeration, activated carbon adsorption, sedimentation, filtration, disinfections, and de-chlorination processes, gauges and meters, and various piping and plumbing fixtures, sensors, instruments, control and instrument panels, HVAC equipment, generator systems, variable frequency drives, pump and motor assemblies.

Prepares calculations, reports, and logs.

Inspects and records plant equipment parameters.

Adjusts functional parts of mechanical devices to optimize performance.

Provides technical assistance to outages.

Performs predetermined period analysis on water treatment parameters.

Performs water analyses to ensure drinking water compliance standards.

Tests routine water samples.

Performs system inspection and maintenance. Examines mechanical equipment to diagnose problems as repairs or replaces.

Maintains inventories and estimates to procure materials, supplies, chemicals, instruments and equipment required to operate and maintain treatment plant and facilities.

Services and performs repairs on equipment and facilities.

Performs and maintains cleanliness of buildings and grounds. Records and maintains treatment plant and/or distribution system operating records.

Prepares reports for data and system analysis, special requests, and research purposes. Compiles, prepares, and submits all regulatory and permitting reports to regulatory agencies.

Records and maintains plant log.

Maintains detailed records of activities and laboratory reports.

Responds to emergencies in a timely manner to prevent destruction or damage to private, public and District property.

Promotes employee safety awareness, safety meetings, and compliance.

Inspects project sites to monitor progress and ensure conformance to design specifications and safety standards.

Ensures the facilities and equipment is in safe operating condition by performing a regular visual inspection.

Observes safety rules, and ensures and maintains a safe environment.

Determines and plans current and future operational and maintenance needs for the treatment plant and water facilities to prepare annual capital and operation budgets.

Prepares assessment reports and recommendation related to planning of capital projects and O&M activities for management approval.

Achieves financial objectives by preparing and administering annual budget; presents and justifies budget recommendations.

Oversees funding, planning, and budgeting of capital projects for improvements, renovations, and upgrades.

Assist with the department initiatives to improve effectiveness by identifying short-term and long-range issues and goals.

Implements directives toward the establishment of treatment plant planned maintenance programs.

Performs public relation activities to improve understanding by the public, customers, and employees.

Maintains professional and technical knowledge by: attending seminars, educational workshops, classes, and conferences for maintaining operator certification.

Performs other duties as assigned.


Navajo Preference

Navajo Veteran Preference

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.