ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Treatment Operator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

HKA Enterprises

Water Operator III

Santa Fe, NM · On-site

$35.08/hr

Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot water treatment and distribution systems * Monitor and adjust ... Support training of junior operators and assist with safety/process meetings * Follow all safety ...

Solvenow Inc.

Operator

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

$16.50 - $21.75/hr

... water treatment processes; principles of supervision and training; and safe work practices ... Observes variations in operating conditions and interprets meter and gauge readings * Operates ...

Apidel Technologies

UC.334.WAT.JC3.Operator.NP

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

$96K - $131K/yr

... in water treatment processes, principles of supervision and training, and safe work practices ... operating conditions and interprets meter and gauge readings Operates valves and gates either ...

Materion

Operator II, Chemical Stripping

Albuquerque, NM

$18.75 - $21.25/hr

Perform Waste Water Treatment Processes per approved SOP * Ability to process PVD shield components ... Must follow strict operating and safety procedures. Must be able to wear necessary personal ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Treatment Operator JobsWater Treatment Operator Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Water Treatment Operator information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$12

$24

$44

How much do water treatment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for water treatment operator in Rio Rancho, NM is $24.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $29.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do wastewater operators make?

Wastewater operators in Alabama typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific facility. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with advanced certifications can earn higher wages. The job often requires knowledge of treatment processes, equipment, and safety protocols.

What jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

Water Treatment Operators typically do not earn $5,000 a week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include skilled trades such as commercial pilots, certain sales roles, or entrepreneurship, but these usually require specific skills, licenses, or significant experience. Most jobs paying this much weekly without a degree are rare and often involve high risk or self-employment.

Is it hard to become a water treatment operator?

Becoming a water treatment operator typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, gaining on-the-job training, and obtaining relevant certifications or licenses, which vary by state or region. The job involves understanding water treatment processes, operating equipment, and adhering to safety and environmental regulations, but with proper training, it is accessible to many candidates.

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 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.

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.
More about Water Treatment Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Water Treatment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Water Treatment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Treatment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Water Treatment Operator jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
Water Treatment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Treatment Operator job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,415 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
Water Treatment Operator - 23512

Water Treatment Operator - 23512

The Bergaila Companies

Rio Rancho, NM • On-site

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Overview
We are seeking a Water Treatment Operator for assignment in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. The selected candidate will gain skills in operating treatment facilities to control flow and processing of water, wastewater, sludge and effluent.
Hours are Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm
This position requires a New Mexico Level 1 Certification in Water
Responsibilities
  • Learn and performs any combination of tasks pertinent to controlling operation of plants and pumping stations as directed
  • Operates treatment facilities to control flow and processing of wastewater, sludge, and effluent
  • Monitors gauges, meters, and control panels
  • Observes and reports abnormalities to supervisor or Lead Operator
  • Operates valves and gates either manually or by remote control; starts and stops pumps, engines and generators to control and adjust flow and treatment processes
  • Maintains shift log and records meter and gauge readings
  • Collects samples and performs process control laboratory tests and analyses
  • Performs routine maintenance functions and custodial duties
  • Ability to carry and respond to pages as requested by management
  • Ability and willingness to work on-call shifts, as requested, including being fit and able to respond to call-ins in a timely manner
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • A valid Drivers License
  • New Mexico Level 1 Certification in Water

Apply