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Water Utility Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Town Of Pecos City

Water Utility Operator I

Pecos, TX · On-site

$37K - $49K/yr

One (1) year of water and sewer utility experience is preferred. Or any equivalent combination of ... SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Must obtain a TCEQ "D" Public Water System Operator License within one (2) ...

Town Of Pecos City

Water Utility Operator I

Pecos, TX · On-site

$37K - $49K/yr

One (1) year of water and sewer utility experience is preferred. Or any equivalent combination of ... SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS Must obtain a TCEQ "D" Public Water System Operator License within one (2) ...

City of Pewaukee

Utility Operator

Pewaukee, WI · On-site

$27.10 - $36.12/hr

The City of Pewaukee is seeking a Utility Operator to join our exceptional Water & Sewer Utility team. We offer a supportive work environment, generous benefits, commitment to career development, and ...

Southwest Water Company

Utility Operator

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

Nexus Water Group is a leading regulated water and wastewater utility serving more than 1.3 million ... Operator . The position is responsible for performing operations and maintenance on water and ...

SouthWest Water Company

Utility Operator

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

Nexus Water Group is a leading regulated water and wastewater utility serving more than 1.3 million ... Operator . The position is responsible for performing operations and maintenance on water and ...

Celanese Corporation

Utility Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

Steam, Compressed Air, Chilled Water, Cooling Water, Potable Water, Dowtherm, Rainwater control ... The Utility Operator must be prepared to cover overtime when needed for vacancies, vacation ...

Celanese Corporation

Utility Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

Steam, Compressed Air, Chilled Water, Cooling Water, Potable Water, Dowtherm, Rainwater control ... The Utility Operator must be prepared to cover overtime when needed for vacancies, vacation ...

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All JobsWater Utility Operator Jobs

Water Utility Operator information

See salary details

$13

$26

$37

How much do water utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water utility operator in the United States is $26.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Utility Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Utility Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often accompanied by state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water testing equipment, and maintenance tools is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are valuable soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the safe and efficient operation of water facilities, compliance with regulations, and the consistent delivery of clean water to communities.

What is the difference between Water Utility Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater Utility OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater operator licenses, state-specific certificationsWater treatment operator licenses, state-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentWater distribution systems, reservoirs, pump stationsWater treatment facilities, filtration systems, chemical handling
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, utility companiesWater treatment plants, municipal water facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles require similar certifications and work within the water industry, but Water Utility Operators focus on maintaining water distribution systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in treating water at treatment facilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position aligned with their skills and certifications.

What are Water Utility Operators?

Water Utility Operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining the systems that treat and distribute water to communities and businesses. They monitor equipment, test water quality, adjust chemical levels, and ensure that water meets safety and regulatory standards. Operators also troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and keep detailed records of plant operations to ensure safe and reliable water delivery.

What are some common challenges Water Utility Operators face in maintaining water quality standards?

Water Utility Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment malfunctions, responding to sudden changes in water demand, and ensuring compliance with strict regulatory standards. They must monitor water treatment processes continuously, troubleshoot technical issues, and perform regular maintenance to prevent contamination. Effective communication with team members and quick decision-making are essential to address these challenges and maintain safe, high-quality water for the community.
More about Water Utility Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Utility Operator jobs? Cities with the most Water Utility Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Water Utility Operator jobs? The top employers for Water Utility Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Water Utility Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Utility Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Utility Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Utility Operator jobs are:
Water Utility Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Utility Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,276 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Water Utility Operator (Trainee, I, II, III)

City of Garland Texas

Newberry Springs, CA

$18.15 - $19.91/hr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Summary

Responsible for inspecting, installing, cleaning, maintaining and repairing the City's Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection system infrastructure.

Pay Range

  • Water Utility Operator Trainee: $18.15 - $19.91 per hour

  • Water Utility Operator I: $19.91 - $29.88 per hour

  • Water Utility Operator II: $21.85 - $32.71 per hour

  • Water Utility Operator III: $23.62 - $36.65 per hour

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Make decisions on how to best maintain, repair or install utility items in the Water/Wastewater utility system.

  • Operate various types of equipment necessary in the daily repair, installation and maintenance of the Water/Wastewater utility system.

  • Perform repairs on water mains, wastewater mains, service lines, service laterals, meters, meter boxes, cleanouts, manholes, valves and fire hydrants.

  • Maintain the Water/ Wastewater utility system.

  • Perform installation of new and replacement substandard utility items.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Skill to operate heavy and light equipment

  • Knowledge of Water Utility installation, maintenance, and repair

  • Knowledge of safety hazards and safety practices

  • Skill to use a variety of tools appropriate for the work assigned

Minimum Qualifications / Licenses and CertificationsWater Utility Operator Trainee

  • High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D)

  • No experience required

Water Utility Operator I

  • High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D)

  • Up to 2 years of experience

  • Water Distribution D license or Wastewater Collections I certification

  • Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement (within 9 months)

Water Utility Operator II

  • High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D)

  • 2-5 years of experience

  • Water Distribution C license or Wastewater Collections II certification

  • Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement

Water Utility Operator III

  • High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D)

  • 5+ years of experience

  • Water Distribution B license or Wastewater Collections III certification

  • Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

The incumbent works in an outdoor environment and confined spaces; frequent exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions or hazards. Majority of work performed outside or with exposure to risk. Exposed to physical exertion such as bending, lifting, stooping, reaching, pulling, and pushing. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

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