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Water Utilities Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

USIC

Utility Locator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20/hr

Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems. * Thoroughly search for underground utilities ...

USIC

Utility Locator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20/hr

Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems. * Thoroughly search for underground utilities ...

Entranosa Water and Wastewater Association

Be Seen First

Chief Executive Officer CEO

Tijeras, NM · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 10 years of experience in utility administration along with either a bachelor's degree from a four-year institution or a Water Supply Certification Level 4 ...

USIC

Utility Locator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$20/hr

Correctly, safely, and efficiently locate underground utilities, including telecommunications, electric power, cable TV, gas, water, and sewer systems. * Thoroughly search for underground utilities ...

The Pueblo of Sandia

UTILITY LAB LEVEL II

Bernalillo, NM

$28.21 - $35.26/hr

The Utility Lab Level II will be responsible for lab data entry water and will assist the Utility Lab Level III on all EPA reports. Our philosophy is built on the principles of integrity, fairness ...

The Pueblo of Sandia

UTILITY OPERATOR 2

Bernalillo, NM · On-site

$28.21 - $31.73/hr

... Sandia Utility infrastructure. Operator 2 will perform duties in accordance with Pueblo and ... Collects tests and preserves water and wastewater samples for chemical and biological properties.

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All JobsWater Utilities JobsWater Utilities Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Water Utilities information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$32K

$92.3K

$148.8K

How much do water utilities jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for water utilities in Rio Rancho, NM is $92,251.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $116,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Water Utilities vs Water Treatment Plant Operators?

AspectWater UtilitiesWater Treatment Plant Operators
CredentialsHigh school diploma; certifications vary by stateHigh school diploma; state-specific operator licenses
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, office, and plant facilitiesPrimarily plant-based, operational environment
Industry UsageUtility companies managing water supply systemsFacilities within water treatment plants
Job FocusManaging water distribution and infrastructureOperating and maintaining water treatment equipment

Water Utilities and Water Treatment Plant Operators both work within the water industry, but Water Utilities focus on managing entire water systems, including distribution, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in operating treatment equipment. Both roles require certifications and are essential for safe water supply management.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

In the water utilities sector, high-paying roles such as senior plant operators or project managers can reach or exceed $10,000 per month with extensive experience and specialized skills. These positions often require technical knowledge, certifications, and on-the-job training rather than a traditional degree.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the water utilities sector, high-paying roles such as senior engineers, project managers, or specialized consultants can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with extensive experience or certifications. These positions often require advanced technical skills, industry knowledge, and sometimes leadership responsibilities, typically working on large-scale infrastructure projects or system management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Water Utilities, and why are they important?

To thrive in Water Utilities, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, distribution systems, and regulatory compliance, often supported by relevant certifications or a degree in environmental science or engineering. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and GIS mapping tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant delivery of clean water to communities.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in water utilities, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in water utilities often encounter challenges such as maintaining aging infrastructure, ensuring regulatory compliance, and responding to emergency situations like water main breaks or contamination incidents. Addressing these issues requires strong problem-solving skills, effective teamwork, and ongoing training in safety and regulatory standards. Many organizations support staff with cross-departmental collaboration and provide opportunities for professional development to help employees stay current with technology and best practices.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the water utilities sector, high-paying roles such as senior engineers, utility executives, and operations managers can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require extensive industry knowledge, management skills, and sometimes advanced degrees or professional licenses.

Is water utilities a good career?

A career in water utilities involves maintaining and operating water treatment and distribution systems, requiring technical skills and certifications. It offers stable employment, opportunities for advancement, and the chance to work in essential public service roles. The job often involves physical work and adherence to safety standards.

What are water utilities?

Water utilities are organizations or companies responsible for providing essential water-related services to communities. They supply clean and safe drinking water, manage wastewater collection and treatment, and often handle stormwater management. Water utilities ensure that water meets health and safety standards, maintain infrastructure such as pipelines and treatment plants, and promote water conservation. These services are crucial for public health, environmental protection, and supporting local economies.
What are popular job titles related to Water Utilities jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Water Utilities jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Utilities jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Water Utilities jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Water Utilities jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Water Utilities job openings:
Water Utilities jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Utilities job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,251 per year, or $44.4 per hour.
Assoc Dir,Utility Services

Assoc Dir,Utility Services

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$7.0K - $10K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 10 days ago

University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

65th of 538 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Assoc Dir,Utility Services
Requisition ID
req36915
Working Title
Assoc Dir,Utility Services
Position Grade
16
Position Summary
The University of New Mexico (UNM) is seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking leader to serve as Associate Director of Utility Services within the Facility Services division. This role provides strategic and operational oversight for the University's utility infrastructure across the Main and Health Sciences Center campuses, including the Ford Utilities Center, Campus Utility Plant, chilled water plants, water wells, and the potable water system. UNM Utility Services' district energy system, including cogeneration, serves approximately 8 million SF of UNM's Main Campus.
Reporting to the Director of Technical Services, the Associate Director ensures the safe, efficient, and reliable delivery of utilities that power academic, research, and healthcare facilities. This position plays a critical role in campus sustainability, operational excellence, and emergency preparedness.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage the operation of high-pressure steam plants, chilled water systems, and potable water systems in compliance with ASME, OSHA, and federal regulations.
  • Oversee utility infrastructure planning, development, and maintenance for Main and Health Sciences Center campuses.
  • Direct and supervise technical and administrative staff, including hiring, training, and performance management.
  • Ensure fiscal responsibility through budget development and expenditure oversight.
  • Coordinate emergency response for critical utility systems supporting healthcare and hospital facilities, or Data Center.
  • Develop and implement short- and long-range plans for utility services, including sustainability initiatives.
  • Manage external contracts and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Support GIS, GPS and other utility mapping systems for accurate infrastructure data management.

See the Position Description for additional information.
Conditions of Employment
  • Possession of a valid New Mexico driver's license is a requirement for this job.
  • Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree; at least 5 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.
Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, or related field.
  • 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in Educational Facilities operation.
  • Strong understanding of FM operations across HVAC, electrical, plumbing, general maintenance, and capital improvement projects.
  • Proven experience leading large teams, to include union staff.
  • Extensive experience in financial management and budgeting.
  • Expertise with facilities maintenance technology platforms (CMMS, work order systems, analytics tools).
  • Exceptional communication, negotiation, and executive-level presentation skills.

Additional Requirements
Campus
Main - Albuquerque, NM
Department
Utility Services Dept Main-Overhead (821D5)
Employment Type
Staff
Staff Type
Regular - Full-Time
Term End Date
Status
Exempt
Pay
Monthly: $7,084.13 - $10,140.00, depending on education and experience
Benefits Eligible
This is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for a more information.
ERB Statement
As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.
Background Check Required
Yes
For Best Consideration Date
6/12/2026
Eligible for Remote Work
No
Eligible for Remote Work Statement
Application Instructions
Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application.
To be considered for this position: 1. Complete the official UNMJOBS application; you must include ALL prior work experience, including the full dates of employment (month and year) for each position held, and the number of hours worked per week. 2. Attach your current resume with three professional references listed. 3. Attach your cover letter that addresses our preferred qualifications. 4.Incomplete applications will not be considered
Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.

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