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Water Treatment Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$80K - $180K/yr

Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze water quality, facility design, and operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide recommendations for treatment and process improvements.

GFT.

Senior Water Wastewater Design Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$100K - $220K/yr

Monitoring operator reports and lab results to refine treatment techniques. * Technical: Function as a technical specialist in the areas of conventional and advanced water and/or wastewater treatment ...

Kinetico Advanced Water Systems

Be Seen First

Switchboard Receptionist

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$31K - $60K/yr (+ commission)

Great software skills Company Description In 1970, Kinetico pioneered the development of a non-electric, demand operated fully automatic water softener that eventually changed the water treatment ...

ENVIROLINK

Wastewater Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The incumbent will perform routine to complex technical and administrative assignments including analyzing and evaluating issues related to the treatment of water and wastewater. Operations as ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator II, Wastewater

Cary, NC · On-site

$34.93/hr

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... Adjusts chemical treatment to ensure water quality meets standards. Calculates various ratios and ...

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All JobsWater Treatment Operator JobsWater Treatment Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Water Treatment Operator information

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$13

$26

$48

How much do water treatment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for water treatment operator in Raleigh, NC is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $32.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does a water treatment operator do?

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 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 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.

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, and they often work in shifts to ensure continuous operation of treatment facilities.

Is being a water treatment operator hard?

Water treatment operators are responsible for maintaining and operating water treatment systems, which requires technical knowledge, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and often involves shift work, but proper training and certifications can help manage the complexity of the tasks involved.

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 management, such as urban areas or states with strict environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment systems also influence earning potential.
More about Water Treatment Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Treatment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Water Treatment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Treatment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Water Treatment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Treatment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Treatment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Water Treatment Operator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Water Treatment Operator job openings:

Water Treatment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Treatment Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,413 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Water Treatment Operator (ST II)

ENVIROLINK

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

The Team Member in this position is responsible for the maintenance and operation of wastewater collection and water distribution systems and equipment. The incumbent will perform routine to complex technical and administrative assignments including analyzing and evaluating issues related to the distribution of water and collection of wastewater as well as other duties as required or assigned. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • The essential function of the position within the organization is to participate in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities, water distribution facilities and wastewater collection facilities to deliver safe potable water and efficient collection of sanitary sewers. Under limited supervision, the position is responsible for lift stations inspections, collection of water samples, water testing, performing utility locates, inspection of booster stations, operation of chemical feed systems, occasional meter reading, meter replacements, meter setting, troubleshooting pumps & motors, responding to customer inquiries, and other duties as assigned.  
  • This position does interact with customers and the public, so professional communication is important.
  • The position utilizes software for management and tracking duties and tasks. Computer skills and good record keeping are key.

US Citizen. E-Verification required. No felonies or major misdemeanors. High school diploma or equivalent.

One (1) year of experience in water or wastewater. Preference given to applicants with an A-Surface license.

Must possess and maintain a valid North Carolina Driver’s License.

Excellent communication skills required including demonstrated fluency with reading, writing and speaking the English language. Readily accessible by phone with ability to work "on-call" for emergencies.

Envirolink, Inc. is a drug-free work place. Initial and random drug testing is required. Successful candidate must submit to post offer, pre-employment physical examination/medical history check.

Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.

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