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Water Systems Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

Respond to complaints on water leaks, water pressure, and meter readings. Perform operator-level ... Perform new construction systems inspections. Perform Backflow Assembly devices testing and ...

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

Respond to complaints on water leaks, water pressure, and meter readings. * Perform operator-level ... Perform new construction systems inspections. * Perform Backflow Assembly devices testing and ...

Knowledge of electrical transmission and distribution systems, rectifiers, and potable water ... operating smelter in the world. Located on the St. Lawrence River, Massena, NY is the center for ...

Daily system checks which will include all like water treatment plants, pressure reducing vaults ... Experience as heavy equipment operator helpful, not required. Electrical, plumbing, and welding ...

Water System Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$78K - $95K/yr

Under direction, Water System Operators perform work in connection with the operation, maintenance ... Computer software such as Computer Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) and the Supervisory ...

Knowledge of electrical transmission and distribution systems, rectifiers, and potable water ... operating smelter in the world. Located on the St. Lawrence River, Massena, NY is the center for ...

Daily system checks which will include all like water treatment plants, pressure reducing vaults ... Experience as heavy equipment operator helpful, not required. Electrical, plumbing, and welding ...

Systems Operator General Information: Title: Systems Operator Status: Full-time, Non-exempt ... Monitor the performance of water purification and wastewater treatment units. * Maintains, repairs ...

This also includes all aspects of the raw water and nonpotable water systems as well as any other tasks as assigned by the Chief Operator, Town Manager or Water Superintendent. Must have the ability ...

Systems Operator General Information: Title: Systems Operator Status: Full-time, Non-exempt ... Monitor the performance of water purification and wastewater treatment units. * Maintains, repairs ...

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Water Systems Operator information

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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 Systems Mechanic

$24.25 - $31.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

The Facilities & Operations (F&O) Directorate's mission is to support the science and technology and environmental restoration missions of the Laboratory by providing a safe, environmentally sound, and reliable infrastructure, to provide high quality crafts and fabrication services to our customers as needed and to protect people, property, and national security.

The Energy & Utilities (EU) Division operates and maintains BNL's:

  • Electric Transmission & Distribution System
  • Central Steam Facility
  • Central Chilled Water Facility
  • Potable Water Treatment Facility
  • Wastewater Treatment Facility
  • Site Fire Alarm Systems
  • Building Electrical Systems
  • Site Energy Management Control System (EMCS)
  • Energy Procurement
  • Energy Metering Systems

These operation and maintenance activities are performed in a manner to ensure they are always safe, reliable, efficient, green and mission ready. The EU Division oversees BNL's energy management programs including sustainability, conservation and obtaining economical electric power and fuel supplies for BNL.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Energy & Utilities Division, within the Facilities and Operations Directorate, has an opportunity to fill the position of Water and Sewerage Operating Mechanic which is anchored at building 624 and reports directly to the Water and Sanitary Systems Supervisor. The employee will be assigned to the day shift M-F 8am-4:30pm. All mechanics shall work weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Under general supervision, repairs, maintains, and operates water and sewerage systems, related facilities, and auxiliary equipment.
  • Conduct rounds and inspections of water wells,treatment facilities, water storage facilities, and wastewater lift stations to ensure proper operation.
  • Ensure the proper operation of equipment, chemical feeds, and records all operating data.
  • Maintain the operations log of all plant activities and cooling towers, records issues, and occurrences.
  • Troubleshoot and repair, water and sewage treatment, pumps, control valves, and equipment as directed.
  • Perform daily water treatment testing, sample collection, and add chemical additions as needed.
  • Identify and repair leaks on the water distribution system and wastewater collection system.
  • Install and repair hydrants, valves, sampling stations, and new service connections.
  • Clear blockages in the wastewater collection system of sanitary waste using a jetter machine or by mechanical methods.
  • Perform video inspections of the wastewater collection system.
  • Provide informed communications effectively, accurately, and on a timely basis with supervisor and other operators.
  • Perform work effectively, efficiently, and safely.
  • Identify potential hazards, environmental concerns, and unsafe conditions or practices in work or at work site, and implement or suggest controls to minimize risk.
  • Respond to emergency situations, alarms, or occurrences in an appropriate manner.
  • Assist in maintaining a high level of housekeeping, inventory, and maintenance of tools.
  • Perform utility mark-outs and locate valves and water/sanitary main from maps and drawings.

The above list of duties is not all inclusive of every duty performed by this position, but it does include the major elements in the job.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • High School diploma, GED, or higher.
  • Must obtain a Grade IIB-GWNYSDOH Community Water Systems Operator license within approximately one year of hire date.
  • Some experience troubleshooting and repair of water treatment equipment, mechanical equipment, pumps, piping, valves, motors, etc.
  • Possess good written and verbal communication skills, including:

    • Ability to follow written instruction procedures, work orders, and similar documents.

    • Ability to sufficiently write/complete work orders and other required documents.

    • Ability to communicate verbally with fellow workers and supervisors.

  • Possess a valid NYS driver's license.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Current holder of a NYSDOH Grade IIB and/or Grade D water operator's license.
  • Experience with the installation of piping and plumbing systems including PVC, copper, ductile iron, and galvanized pipe.
  • Experience with commercial plumbing pipefitting, service repairs and preventative maintenance.
  • Experience with closed loop fluid systems and operations i.e; water pumping systems, filtration systems, sewage treatment equipment.
  • Familiar with the practice of taking various types of water samples and sampling techniques.
  • Experience maintaining cooling tower chemical treatment systems.

Environmental, Health, and Safety Requirements:

Must meet physical requirements of the position, including but not limited to:

  • Standing, bending, and lifting, up to 50-lbs.
  • Ability to work in confined spaces.
  • Ability to climb fixed and portable ladders and work at heights up to 30 feet.
  • Use of a respirator and other related safety equipment.
  • Work outdoors/cold environments.
  • Work in warm environments.
  • Use of powered and air operated hand tools.
  • Operates forklifts, mobile cranes, or other heavy equipment.
  • Work with machinery including benchtop grinders and similar.
  • Act as a primary authorized employee for Complex Lock-out/Tag-out.
  • Ability to use powered hand tools.
  • Working in excavations performing shoveling and digging.
  • Ability to wear proper PPE such as safety glasses, safety shoes, and hearing protection.

Other information:

  • Must have a telephone and must provide the number to BNL for callout and contact purposes.
  • Must be able to complete all the requirements of the Job Training Assessment.
  • The successful applicant will be required to join IBEW Local 2230 and maintain membership within 30 days of their start date.The Lab's placement policy is to select the best qualified candidate for an available position. With respect to Bargaining Unit positions, candidates are considered in the following order:(1) present benefits-eligible employees within the department/division and/or appropriate bargaining unit, with preference for those within the immediate work group; (2) present benefits-eligible employees within the Laboratory; and (3) outside applicants. The starting salary for this position is $39.58.

Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to employee success and we believe that a comprehensive employee benefits program is an important and meaningful part of the compensation employees receive. Review more information at BNL | Benefits Program

Brookhaven National Laboratory requires all non-badged personnel including visitors to produce a REAL-ID or REAL-ID compliant documentation to access Brookhaven National Laboratory - view more information atwww.bnl.gov/real-id. This is due to nationwide identification requirements for federal site access as required by the federalREAL ID Act. Those not in possession of a REAL ID-compliant document will not be permitted to access the site which includes access to the Laboratory for interviews.

About Us

Brookhaven National Laboratory (www.bnl.gov) delivers discovery science and transformative technology to power and secure the nation's future. Brookhaven Lab is a multidisciplinary laboratory with seven Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, 37 R&D 100 Awards, and more than 70 years of pioneering research. The Lab is primarily supported by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Science. Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA) operates and manages the Laboratory for DOE. BSA is a partnership between Battelle and The Research Foundation for the State University of New York on behalf of Stony Brook University. BSA salutes our veterans and active military members with careers that leverage the skills and unique experience they gained while serving our country, learn more at BNL | Opportunities for Veterans at Brookhaven National Laboratory.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Guided by our core values of integrity, responsibility, innovation, respect, and teamwork, Brookhaven Science Associates is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer-Vets/Disabled. We are committed to fostering a respectful and collaborative environment that fuels scientific discovery. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to any characteristic protected by law. All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. *VEVRAA Federal Contractor

BSA employees are subject to restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Talent Recruitment Programs, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation at the time of hire for review by Brookhaven. The full text of the Order may be found at:https://www.directives.doe.gov/directives-documents/400-series/0486.1-BOrder-a/@@images/file