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Water Treatment Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

V2X

Under Supervision of the Water Treatment Plant Supervisor, the Water Treatment Plant Operator produces bulk potable and non-potable water using mobile ROWPU and other water production equipment.

Pae

Water Treatment Plant Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$37.80/hr

DUTIES / ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 25210 WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR description from the Service Contract Act (SCA) Dictionary of Occupations (DOT): Controls treatment plant machines and equipment to ...

Amentum

Water Treatment Plant Operator

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$37.80/hr

DUTIES / ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 25210 WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR description from the Service Contract Act (SCA) Dictionary of Occupations (DOT): Controls treatment plant machines and equipment to ...

Town of Andover

Water Treatment Plant Operator

Andover, MA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Description Under the direction of the Water Treatment Plant Primary Operator or designee, responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of the Town's water treatment facility, storage tanks ...

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Water Treatment Plant Operator information

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$30K

$57.4K

$93.5K

How much do water treatment plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for water treatment plant operator in the United States is $57,354.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $66,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do water treatment plant operators make the most money?

Water treatment plant operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and more advanced infrastructure, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment systems also influence earning potential.

How much do water treatment plant operators make in the US?

Water treatment plant operators in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $55,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and certifications such as the Class I or II operator licenses, with some operators earning over $70,000 annually in higher-paying regions or with advanced skills.

What does a water treatment plant operator do?

A Water Treatment Plant Operator is responsible for managing and maintaining the equipment and processes that treat and purify water for public consumption, industrial use, or wastewater treatment. They monitor water quality, operate control systems, perform routine maintenance, and ensure that water meets safety and regulatory standards. Operators may also collect water samples, test for contaminants, and adjust chemical levels to ensure effective treatment. Their work is essential for providing safe, clean water and protecting public health.

What does a water treatment plant operator do?

A water treatment plant operator works with a team of other operators to oversee the treatment of wastewater and production of drinking water at a treatment plant. As a water treatment plant operator, your responsibilities include monitoring the treatment system to ensure that plant processes are working as expected. While the majority of treatment and testing is automated, you are expected to manually spot test water quality to ensure plant systems are working. Your job is to oversee the day to day operation of the water treatment plant to make sure your output meets states standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water treatment plant operator?

To thrive as a Water Treatment Plant Operator, you need a strong understanding of water treatment processes, chemistry, and safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma and relevant state certification or licensure. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for responding to operational issues and working with teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient delivery of clean water to communities.

What are some common challenges faced by water treatment plant operators on a daily basis?

Water Treatment Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to unexpected equipment malfunctions, maintaining compliance with strict environmental and safety regulations, and adapting to changes in water quality due to weather or industrial discharges. Operators must also manage routine maintenance and troubleshooting, sometimes during off-hours or under time constraints. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is essential to ensure smooth operations and address any issues promptly.

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

AspectWater Treatment Plant OperatorWater Distribution System Operator
CertificationsWater Treatment Operator Certification, state-specific licensesWater Distribution Operator Certification, state-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentInside treatment plants, handling chemicals and equipmentOutside in the field, maintaining pipelines and valves
Job FocusPurifying water, managing treatment processesDistributing water, maintaining distribution infrastructure

Both roles require similar certifications and are essential in water management. While Water Treatment Plant Operators focus on water purification within treatment facilities, Water Distribution System Operators handle the delivery of water through pipelines. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Is being a water treatment plant operator a good job?

Water treatment plant operators are responsible for maintaining and operating equipment to ensure safe drinking water and wastewater treatment. The job offers stable employment, requires technical skills, and often involves shift work, with opportunities for certification and advancement. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and environmental protection.
More about Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs
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Who are the top companies hiring for Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs? The top employers for Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs include:
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What are popular job titles related to Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs? For Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Treatment Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,354 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR 1ST CLASS/UF

City of Newport News

Newport News, VA • On-site

$44K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

City Of Newport News rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 844 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR 1ST CLASS/UF
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All levels of experience will be considered. Please review the requirements of this position at all levels. Target Hiring Ranges Based on Experience: Water Treatment Plant Operator 1st Class: $56,300 - $60,500 - Water Treatment Plant Operator 2nd Class: $46,400 - $55,000 - Water Treatment Plant Operator 3rd Class: $44,400 - $45,000- Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee: $40,000 - $41,400 - SUPPLEMENTAL PAY FOR LICENSED OPERATORS! Water Treatment Plant Operators at Newport News Waterworks receive annual supplemental pay based on their Water Treatment Plant Operator (WTPO) certification level: Class I License: $10,000/year supplemental pay Class II License: $7,500/year supplemental pay Class III License: $5,000/year supplemental pay Trainee: $2,500/year supplemental pay
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location : WATERWORKS
Job Family : PROFESSIONAL
Posting Start : 03/04/2026
Posting End : 08/12/2026
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