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Water Treatment Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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.

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Brief Description Under general supervision of the Water Treatment Plant Superintendent, work ... Operating and working around machinery, heavy equipment, chemicals, and moving equipment. Recognize ...

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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 16, 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.

What cities are hiring for Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Water Treatment Plant Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs are:

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:

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

V2X

On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


V2X rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

**This Job Posting only applies to RMI Citizens and must be authorized to work in the RMI to be considered for this Job**

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. Produces Class I and Class II water products in accordance with standards in TB MED 576, 577, and other required regulations. This worker starts and stops pumps, engines, and generators to control flow of water or raw sewage through filtering, settling, aeration, and sludge digestion processes, maintains log of operations and records meter and gas readings, performs routine operations and maintenance, and may collect water and sewage samples. Also conducts laboratory tests using testing equipment, such as colorimeter. This position can also operate sewage treatment, sludge processing, and disposal equipment in wastewater (sewage) treatment plant to control flow and processing of sewage, monitors control panels and adjusts valves and gates manually or by remote control to regulate flow of sewage, observes variations in operating conditions and interprets meter and gauge readings, and tests results to determine load requirements. This person may operate and maintain power-generating equipment to provide steam and electricity for plant. Requires a working knowledge of operating systems and ability to adjust controls to ensure operating efficiencies. The Water Treatment Plant Operator will set/up, dismantle and perform preventive maintenance checks and services for ROWPU systems. Will record water distribution operations and equipment issues daily.


Responsibilities

This position description is subject to change at any time as needed to meet the requirements of the program or company.

  • Produces bulk potable and non-potable water using mobile ROWPU and other water production equipment.
  • Produces Class I and Class II water products in accordance with standards in TB MED 576, 577, and other required regulations.
  • Starts and stops pumps, engines, and generators to control flow of water or raw sewage through filtering, settling, aeration, and sludge digestion processes, maintains log of operations and records meter and gas readings, performs routine operations and maintenance, and may collect water and sewage samples.
  • Conducts laboratory tests using testing equipment, such as colorimeter.
  • Also operate sewage treatment, sludge processing, and disposal equipment in wastewater (sewage) treatment plant to control flow and processing of sewage, monitors control panels and adjusts valves and gates manually or by remote control to regulate flow of sewage, observes variations in operating conditions and interprets meter and gauge readings, and tests results to determine load requirements.
  • This person may operate and maintain power-generating equipment to provide steam and electricity for plant.
  • Requires a working knowledge of operating systems and ability to adjust controls to ensure operating efficiencies.
  • The Water Treatment Plant Operator will set/up, dismantle and perform preventive maintenance checks and services for ROWPU systems.
  • Record water distribution operations and equipment issues daily.
  • Other Duties as Assigned

Qualifications
  • Minimum Qualifications: Education/Certifications: One-year related experience may be substituted for one year of education, if degree is required.
    • Must be CAC eligible and/or able to obtain a Common Access Card (CAC)
    • High school diploma or equivalent. Must provide a copy of the diploma.
  • Experience:
    • One (1) year related experience in either water or wastewater treatment.
  • LN Qualifications/Experience Requirements:
    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • Three (3) years of Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator experience.
    • Must read, write and speak English fluently.
  • Skills:
    • Able and willing to perform other duties as needed, as skills and program allow.
  • Working Conditions:
    • Must be capable of working in an extreme weather conditions with temperatures exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Indoor and/or outdoor environment with very adverse and harsh conditions (i.e., hot, dry, duty, desert environment with average temperatures of 130 degrees in the summer months).
    • Includes some industrial production environment conditions as well.
  • Physical Requirements:
    • Medium work. Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
    • Employee use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for some situations. PPE includes, but is not limited to, head, foot, torso, respiratory, vision, and hearing protective devices.
    • Must comply with all Fire and Safety Regulations and post policies.
At V2X, we are deeply committed to both equal employment opportunity, including protection for Veterans and individuals with disabilities, and fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We ensure all individuals are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, recognizing the strength that comes from a workforce rich in diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills. This commitment, aligned with our core Vision and Values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility, allows us to leverage differences, encourage innovation, and expand our success in the global marketplace, ultimately enabling us to best serve our clients.Qualifications:
  • Minimum Qualifications: Education/Certifications: One-year related experience may be substituted for one year of education, if degree is required.
    • Must be CAC eligible and/or able to obtain a Common Access Card (CAC)
    • High school diploma or equivalent. Must provide a copy of the diploma.
  • Experience:
    • One (1) year related experience in either water or wastewater treatment.
  • LN Qualifications/Experience Requirements:
    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • Three (3) years of Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator experience.
    • Must read, write and speak English fluently.
  • Skills:
    • Able and willing to perform other duties as needed, as skills and program allow.
  • Working Conditions:
    • Must be capable of working in an extreme weather conditions with temperatures exceeding 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Indoor and/or outdoor environment with very adverse and harsh conditions (i.e., hot, dry, duty, desert environment with average temperatures of 130 degrees in the summer months).
    • Includes some industrial production environment conditions as well.
  • Physical Requirements:
    • Medium work. Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 30 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
    • Employee use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for some situations. PPE includes, but is not limited to, head, foot, torso, respiratory, vision, and hearing protective devices.
    • Must comply with all Fire and Safety Regulations and post policies.
At V2X, we are deeply committed to both equal employment opportunity, including protection for Veterans and individuals with disabilities, and fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We ensure all individuals are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, recognizing the strength that comes from a workforce rich in diverse experiences, perspectives, and skills. This commitment, aligned with our core Vision and Values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility, allows us to leverage differences, encourage innovation, and expand our success in the global marketplace, ultimately enabling us to best serve our clients.Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About V2X

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1945