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

ENVIROLINK

Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Prefer NC C-Well Water Treatment Certification and Wastewater II Certification or must be willing to obtain within one year of hire. Willing to train the right person. Must possess and maintain a ...

Black & Veatch

Staff Water Operations Specialist

Cary, NC · On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

... water treatment, and advanced disinfection/filtration systems * Prepares standard operating ... procedures, energy control procedures, job safety analysis, and operation and maintenance manuals ...

ENVIROLINK

Operator- Water & Wastewater

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Team Member assigned to this position is responsible for executing municipal water and wastewater utility services, and the maintenance and operation of treatment, transmission and distribution ...

Black & Veatch

Staff Water Operations Specialist

Cary, NC · On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

... water treatment, and advanced disinfection/filtration systems * Prepares standard operating ... procedures, energy control procedures, job safety analysis, and operation and maintenance manuals ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Cary, NC

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 ...

Culligan

Route Driver

Durham, NC · On-site

$36K - $60K/yr

... 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 ...

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

Water Treatment Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$26

$48

How much do water treatment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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.

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, certifications, and location, with some operators earning over $70,000 annually in certain 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 management, such as urban areas or states with strict environmental regulations. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and working in specialized or industrial facilities.

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 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 being a water treatment operator hard?

Water treatment operators are responsible for monitoring and maintaining water purification systems, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can involve shift work, troubleshooting equipment, and obtaining certifications, but it is generally considered manageable with proper training and experience.

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.
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 $55,416 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Facility Operator II, Wastewater

Essential Utilities, Inc.

Cary, NC • On-site

$34.93/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Aqua, an Essential Utilities company, employs people in a variety of roles within our eight-state footprint, ranging from field workers and customer service representatives who are on the front lines working with customers, to scientists and engineers who help ensure we're delivering reliable water and wastewater services to our communities. If you're looking for a rewarding career helping improve our environment and protect our natural resources, we encourage you to join our team!
About Essential Utilities
Essential Utilities, Inc. delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities.
Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status - including a competitive and comprehensive benefits package as well as a commitment to career growth opportunities.
We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.
Our company is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S.
Are you looking for a fantastic career at Aqua? We have a great opportunity for a Facility Operator. This role is under the direction of the Field Supervisor and will perform a variety of activities to support the operation of water production facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, lift stations, booster stations, distribution system, and the wastewater collection system.
CAREER PROGRESSION SCHEDULE AND PAY:
FO Trainee - $25.52/HR
  • Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 months of employment.

FO I - $28.71/HR
  • Minimum license requirement of C Well or Grade I.

FO II - $31/HR
  • Must meet dual licensing requirements and have either a B Well or a Grade II.

FO III - $34.93/HR
  • Must meet dual licensing requirements of at least a B Well and Grade II plus have an A Well or Grade III.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES: (Primary Duties and Responsibilities)
  • Maintains equipment at the assigned water production facilities and booster stations.
  • Operates and maintains distribution systems including mains, valves, hydrants and service lines.
  • Maintains equipment at the wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations.
  • Operates and maintains sewer collection systems including collections mains and pump stations.
  • Troubleshoots and repairs service piping and other related equipment.
  • Performs routine water quality analysis in accordance with established processes and procedures.
  • Makes operational adjustments as needed to comply with state and federal water quality standards.
  • Adjusts chemical treatment to ensure water quality meets standards. Calculates various ratios and dosages.
  • Completes customer service work orders, updates and maintains appropriate system documentation of activities and closes work orders in accordance with department policies and procedures.
  • Performs all tasks safely, professionally and in accordance with company policies and procedures as well as local, state and federal laws, rules and guidelines.
  • Assists with other tasks or projects as assigned

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function(s).
QUALIFICATIONS: (Required Experience, Education, Licenses, and Certifications)
  • A high school diploma or GED.
  • A valid U.S. Driver's License.
  • Strong preference for experienced and licensed water and/or wastewater operators.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Familiarity with computers / tablets and the basic operation of database, spreadsheet and word processing programs preferred
  • Ability to read, understand and accurately follow operating instructions both written and verbal
  • Mathematical ability to perform calculations to determine various ratios, dosages, volumetric calculations that are required for the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Plants and Water Treatment Plants
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate in writing
  • Familiarity with and understanding of the need to prevent wastewater pollution of area waters
  • Understand and maintain plan processes through computer-controlled equipment
  • A team player able to work effectively in a team-fashioned multi-tasking environment

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • May be subject to extreme temperatures, noise, wet and/or humid conditions, mechanical, electrical, gas exposure hazards, fumes, dusts, mists, gases and /or poor ventilation atmospheric conditions.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
  • Working conditions include travel to work sites of Essential Utilities and/or other constituents.
  • Must obtain a CDL Class C with Hazmat endorsement within 90 days of hire
  • Must be available to be on-call nights and on weekends to adequately staff a 24 hour/7day operation

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Aqua, an Essential Utilities company is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. Equal employment opportunity is provided to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to the following legally protected characteristics: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions, including medical conditions related to lactation), physical or mental disability, covered-veteran status, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state or federal law.
Aqua is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you have a condition that may prevent you from applying for a job online or need to request an accommodation during the interview process, please call (1-877-271-9012).
To maintain the integrity of the recruitment process and to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest due to employment and/or assignment of family members and personal referrals, specific guidelines apply to the hiring and assignment of these individuals including, but not limited to:
  • Family members cannot result in a supervisor/subordinate reporting relationship
  • Family members cannot work in the same department.

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