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Water Systems Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

List the certifying agency and your operator number or ID. 2. Please describe your experience in water treatment, wastewater treatment, or distribution systems operations or maintenance. 3. Please ...

Systems Operator - GPX TX GULF COAST LOCATION - SABINE PASS, TX 77655 Overview Position Type ... Monitor the performance of water purification and wastewater treatment units. * Maintains, repairs ...

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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 Aug 16, 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 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,351 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

$120K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Salary: $120,868.80 - $175,260.80 Annually
Location : 175 S. Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ
Job Type: Full-time, Regular
Job Number: 2700015
Department: Public Works & Utilities
Division: 3830-WATER TREATMENT PLANT
Opening Date: 07/22/2026
Closing Date: 8/19/2026 11:59 PM Arizona
FLSA: Exempt
Job Announcement
The City of Chandler Public Works & Utilities Department is currently seeking qualified individuals interested in joining our team at our Pecos Water Treatment Plant as our Water Systems Senior Manager (advertised as "Operations Manager - Water Systems"). This position is a regular, full-time, exempt position scheduled to work Monday - Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
Current City of Chandler employees may only hold one position and are not eligible for additional part-time or secondary positions within the City of Chandler.
Why work for Chandler?• Diverse and inclusive environment
• Up to 8 hours paid time off annually to volunteer in the community
• Dress code is business casual, with jeans on Fridays
• 3 medical plans to choose from along with dental and vision coverage
• Accrue 130 hours paid vacation in your first year, eligible for use immediately following accrual
• Accrue 96 hours paid sick leave in your first year, eligible for use immediately following accrual
• 12 paid holidays annually, with additional Winter Break leave at the end of 2026.
• Become part of the Arizona State Retirement System with a 100% city contribution match
• City contributions of 1% gross wages per pay period to deferred compensation
• Robust Employee Wellness program with $350 incentive
• Professional development opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 annually, $3,200 for part time employees
• Free Tumbleweed Recreation Center membership
• Flexible schedule/remote work options (when available)
Who we are?
Chandler was the first city in Arizona to receive accreditation of our water and wastewater operations by the American Public Works Association, the toughest accreditation to achieve in the industry. The Utilities Division is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the City's water treatment plant, 32 ground water wells, and 19 reservoir/booster station facilities and share another water plant with the Town of Gilbert. The Utility also operates wastewater and reclaimed water infrastructure, including industrial wastewater/ brine reduction and three wastewater facilities. On average we treat over 64 million gallons of drinking water and treat over 30 million gallons of wastewater per day to class A+ reclaimed water to meet irrigation and industrial demands. Our water is received from four primary water sources: Salt River, Verde River, Colorado River and ground water supplied by our extensive well field facilities. We also use advanced treatment processes to recycle over 3 million gallons of industrial wastewater and return it back for industrial reuse. Service is provided to the City of Chandler residential, commercial, and industrial users by a network of 1,242 miles of active water mains, 1,040 miles of active sewer mains, and 92 miles of reclaimed water mains.
Who we are looking for
Our new team member will be passionate about supervising, managing, and leading the Water Systems Division's activities and operations. This includes overseeing fiscal, budgetary, and personnel functions, as well as collaborating on goal setting and policy development with the Director and Assistant Director.
To view the complete job description, please click here.
Minimum qualifications
• A Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Physical Sciences or a related field; and
• 8 years of progressively responsible experience in water or wastewater treatment, including 3 years of supervisory experience; and
• ADEQ Grade 4 Water Treatment Certification upon hire or promotion; and
• ADEQ Grade 4 Water Distribution Certification upon hire or promotion; and
• A valid Driver's License with an acceptable driving record; or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge and abilities necessary to perform the work.
Desired qualifications
  • Experience working with municipal budgeting;
  • Experience utilizing CMMS systems, GIS platforms, asset management software, and Microsoft Office applications;
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment in routine and emergency situations;
  • Ability to communicate effectively with employees, contractors, elected officials, regulatory agencies, and members of the public.

This position is at-will and serves at the pleasure of the City Manager.
The City of Chandler will conduct a pre-employment drug and alcohol test, a driving record check, and a reference check as a condition of employment. An offer of employment is contingent upon acceptable results. All applicants hired will be required to be fingerprinted with successful results as a condition of continued employment.
Applicants for employment and volunteer opportunities should be aware of the City of Chandler's policies concerning the use of drugs and alcohol. These policies have not been altered by the passage of Proposition 207. The use of recreational marijuana is a violation of the city's Drug Free Workplace Policy. Certain positions within the city are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test. A positive result for drugs tested under the policy, including recreational marijuana, may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment or volunteer opportunity. The examination process may vary if determined necessary.
The City of Chandler is committed to Equal Opportunity and Reasonable Accommodation.
The City of Chandler offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and some part-time positions. For more detailed information on the benefits offered, please
01
Do you have a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Engineering, Physical Sciences or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have at least 8 years of progressively responsible experience in water or wastewater treatment, including three (3) years of supervisory experience?
  • Yes
  • No

03
In lieu of a college degree, do you have at least 12 years of combined college and progressively responsible experience in water or wastewater treatment, including three (3) years of supervisory experience?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have an ADEQ Grade 4 Water Treatment Certification or another state's equivalent certification?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have an ADEQ Grade 4 Water Distribution Certification or another state's equivalent certification?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you have a valid Driver's License with an acceptable driving record?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Briefly explain your experience utilizing CMMS systems, GIS platforms, asset management software, and Microsoft Office applications.
Required Question