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Water Treatment Operator Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

... the water treatment industry. This location is independently owned and operated. Your application will go directly to the owner, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this ...

Maintenance Tech

Moweaqua, IL · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Position Summary The Maintenance Person is responsible for operating and maintaining electrical and mechanical equipment used to provide heating and hot water for the property, assume the provision ...

Maintenance Technician

Clinton, IL · On-site

$27 - $34/hr

May also include light fabrication skills / welding, operating machining equipment such as lathes ... water chiller systems. * Must have good mechanical maintenance and trouble shooting skills ...

Maintenance Tech

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... water leaks if possible or work with Community Manager to arrange outside plumbing company * • Equipment inventory tracking and upkeep * • Read Water Meters * • Other duties and projects as ...

You'll determine causes of operating problems in areas including, but not limited to, plumbing, electrical systems/components, HVAC, carpentry, electrical fixtures/switches/power sources, and ...

Maintenance Technician

Clinton, IL · On-site

$27 - $33/hr

You'll determine causes of operating problems in areas including, but not limited to, plumbing, electrical systems/components, HVAC, carpentry, electrical fixtures/switches/power sources, and ...

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Water Treatment Operator information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$13

$26

$48

How much do water treatment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for water treatment operator in Decatur, IL is $26.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $31.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do water treatment operators make in the US?

Water treatment operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and certifications such as the Wastewater Treatment Certification or Water Treatment Certification, with some operators earning over $70,000 annually in higher-paying regions or with advanced skills.

Where do water treatment operators make the most money?

Water treatment operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for water infrastructure, such as urban areas or states with extensive water treatment needs. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment systems also influence earning potential.

What are some common daily responsibilities for a Water Treatment Operator, and how do these tasks contribute to plant operations?

Water Treatment Operators are typically responsible for monitoring and adjusting equipment, conducting water quality tests, recording data, and responding to alarms or malfunctions. Daily tasks may include inspecting pumps and filters, adding chemicals, and ensuring regulatory compliance. These responsibilities are vital for maintaining safe, reliable water supply and for preventing environmental contamination, making operators integral to both public health and operational efficiency.

What is a Water Treatment Operator?

Water treatment operators treat and transfer water and wastewater. They operate treatment plant machine systems with control boards, collect water and sewage samples, test and study water for quality, and transport water to designated locations. They also add chemicals to wastewater to disinfect it and turn it into drinking water. Water and wastewater treatment operators must hold a special certification or license and adhere to state regulations and safety procedures.

What is the difference between Water Treatment Operator vs Water Plant Operator?

AspectWater Treatment OperatorWater Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires state-specific water treatment certificationsOften requires similar water treatment or plant operation licenses
Work EnvironmentWorks at water treatment facilities, handling water purification processesOperates and maintains water treatment or distribution systems
Industry UsageCommonly used in municipal water treatment plantsUsed in municipal, industrial, and commercial water facilities

Water Treatment Operators and Water Plant Operators often perform similar roles in water facilities, focusing on water purification and system maintenance. While their titles may differ, both require comparable certifications and work environments. The main distinction lies in terminology used by employers, but their responsibilities and industry usage overlap significantly.

Is a water treatment operator a hard job?

A water treatment operator's job involves monitoring and maintaining water treatment systems, which requires technical skills, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. The work can be physically demanding and may involve shift work, but proper training and certifications can help manage the job's challenges.

What does a water treatment operator do?

A water treatment operator is responsible for monitoring and operating equipment to treat and purify water, ensuring it meets safety and quality standards. They perform tests, adjust chemical levels, maintain equipment, and follow safety protocols, often working in shifts and requiring relevant certifications. Their work helps provide clean, safe drinking water and protect public health.

What are Water Treatment Operators?

Water Treatment Operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining systems that treat water to make it safe for drinking, industrial use, or environmental release. They monitor and operate equipment, conduct tests to ensure water quality, and adjust processes to comply with safety standards and regulations. Their work is essential for public health, as they help ensure communities have access to clean and safe water.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Treatment Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Treatment Operator, you need knowledge of water treatment processes, chemistry, and safety regulations, generally supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant certifications like a state water operator license. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of water treatment facilities and compliance with environmental standards, directly impacting public health.
What are popular job titles related to Water Treatment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL? For Water Treatment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Treatment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Water Treatment Operator jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Water Treatment Operator jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Water Treatment Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Treatment Operator job openings in Decatur, IL 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 $55,296 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Field Service Technician

Field Service Technician

Culligan

Lincoln, IL • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Culligan rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 123 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

360th of 421 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Medical insurance
  • Vacation, paid time off
  • Company-provided workwear, cell phone, tablet
  • Company-paid training
  • Additional Culligan Corporate Subject Matter Expert training offered
  • Employee discounts for Culligan in-home products
  • Eligibility for annual recognition and training meetings/events

Comprehensive training provided. We will teach you everything you need to know to launch your career in the high-growth water treatment business!
Culligan Water is seeking an individual to provide installation, service, and repair of Culligan products in homes and/or businesses. Our products include water softeners, drinking water systems and solutions for problem water.
The service technician provides repairs, upgrades, maintenance, and installations for Culligan equipment and products in customers' homes and/or businesses. The technician's goal is to provide the maximum amount of quality service to Culligan customers.
Responsibilities
  • Performing all diagnostics and analysis to troubleshoot and repair equipment in a timely and efficient manner
  • Installing, upgrading, and maintaining equipment
  • Completing paperwork related to tasks in an accurate and timely manner
  • Assisting other employees with the delivery and installation of products/equipment
  • Maintaining company vehicles, tools, and equipment
  • Communicating positively with customers and maintaining positive public relations for the company
  • Following all rules and regulations about safety and Culligan policies

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Plumbing experience is highly preferred
  • Minimum two years of installation and maintenance experience preferred
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • May require lifting/moving equipment from 50-75 lbs

About Culligan
As the world's leading water experts, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality water solutions to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Headquartered in Rosemont, Illinois, Culligan International offers technologically advanced, state-of-the-art water filtration products, including water softeners, water filtration systems, industrial water treatment solutions, drinking water systems, and whole-house filtration systems.
Compensation: $18.00 - $21.00 per hour
About Culligan
Great tasting water. Brighter future. Bigger job opportunities. Culligan is making a real difference in the lives of people all over the world by providing better, cleaner water through our suite of innovative products and exceptional customer service. Join the Culligan team. Apply for a job now.
Culligan provides healthy, delicious water for our customers in their homes, offices, businesses, and industrial facilities around the world. Our complete line of water softeners, water filtration systems, commercial and industrial water treatment solutions, drinking water systems, whole-house filtration systems and bottled water delivery options set the standard in the water treatment industry.
This location is independently owned and operated. Your application will go directly to the owner, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this location. All inquiries about employment at this location should be made directly to the location owner, and not to Culligan Corporate.

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