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Water Utility Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Gfoat

Water Utilities Director

Garland, TX · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Number of Direct and Indirect Reports (include titles) 1-Water Utilities Maintenance Manager, 1- ... Manage, prepare and review Water Capital Improvement Program and Annual Operating Budget. * Review ...

City of Webster

Utility Equipment Operator

Webster, TX · On-site

$22.11 - $26.94/hr

... Operator. The purpose of this position is to maintain the City's utility services ... This is accomplished by monitoring the City's water and sewer systems, and skilled operation of ...

New

City of Webster

Utility Equipment Operator

Webster, TX · On-site

$22.11 - $26.94/hr

... Operator . The purpose of this position is to maintain the City's utility services ... This is accomplished by monitoring the City's water and sewer systems, and skilled operation of ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsWater Utility Operator JobsWater Utility Operator Jobs in Texas

Water Utility Operator information

See Texas salary details

$12

$24

$34

How much do water utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for water utility operator in Texas is $24.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $28.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water utility operator?

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.

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 popular job titles related to Water Utility Operator jobs in Texas?

For Water Utility Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Utility Operator jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Utility Operator jobs in Texas are:

Water Utility Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Utility Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,566 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Water Plant Apprentice/Water Plant Operator I/Water Plant Operator II

City of Waco, TX

Waco, TX • On-site

$28.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

City Of Waco rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 848 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Waco, TX
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2026-01062
Department: INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES
Division: INFRASTRUCTURE SVCS TREATMENT
Opening Date: 03/05/2026
Summary
Water Plant Apprentice
Starting Salary: $19.4000 per hour
Minimum Qualifications:
Required:
  • H.S. Diploma or GED equivalent
  • Valid Texas Driver's License
  • Texas Commission on Environmental Quality issued Class D License within 180 Days
  • Texas Commission on Environmental Quality issued Class C Surface Water License within 1 1-2 years

Position Overview:
Under basic supervision, performs a combination of basic and semi-skilled work in the operation and maintenance of the Water Treatment Plants (WTP) and related facilities for the Water Utility Services Department.
Essential Functions:
  • Assists in the operation and maintenance of WTP facilities and equipment; performs work in accordance with all quality standards, safety regulations and procedures; duties will vary according to job assignment and skill level.
  • Observes and monitors WTP equipment and process control system; cleans, maintains and adjusts equipment and components to meet WTP specifications; collects samples and checks equipment to verify proper operating conditions; maintains records of services performed.
  • Maintains and repairs mechanical equipment and components and performs preventive maintenance as directed; maintains and adjusts equipment to meet job specifications and technical codes; checks equipment to verify proper operating conditions and identify maintenance needs; maintains records of services performed.
  • May be required to respond afterhours, including holidays and weekends, in the event of a departmental or City-wide emergency.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • Supports the relationship between the City of Waco and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with residents, visitors, and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information.
  • Lives the City of Waco Values.

Water Plant Operator I
Starting salary: $28.2500 per hour
Minimum Qualifications:
Required:
  • H.S. Diploma or GED equivalent and 1 year of treatment plant operations, mechanical and electrical repair, maintenance, and installation experience.
  • Valid Texas Driver's License
  • Class C Surface Water License from Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)

Position Overview:
Under general supervision, performs a combination of semi-skilled and skilled in the operations, monitoring, and maintenance of water treatment (WTP) facilities and associated systems for the Water Utility Services Department.
Employees within this class are distinguished from the Water Plants Apprentice by the performance of the full range of duties assigned, including the ability to operate the plant without supervision. Employees at this level will still receive frequent instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and will be fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.
Essential Functions:
  • Assists in the operation and maintenance of WTP facilities and equipment; performs work in accordance with all quality standards, safety regulations and procedures, and maintaining records of services performed; duties will vary according to job assignment and skill level.
  • Observes and monitors WTP operations, equipment, and process control systems; including, but not limited to, cleaning, maintaining, reading, and interpreting plant equipment gauges, dials, graphs, manuals, and other instrumentation; operates and adjusts treatment processes, chemicals, pumps, valves, motors, and other equipment to maintain appropriate plant operations; receive and unload chemical or other deliveries; troubleshoot treatment issues and communicate to supervisors.
  • Maintains and repairs mechanical equipment and components and performs preventive maintenance as directed; maintains and adjusts equipment to meet job specifications and technical codes; checks equipment to verify proper operating conditions and identify maintenance needs; maintains records of services performed.
  • Operate various WTP lab and mechanical equipment including vehicles, heavy equipment, forklifts, lawnmowers, screens, dewatering equipment, hand tools and power tools, filters, mop, buffer, spray painter, grease gun, and various office equipment.
  • Performs shiftwork and may be required to respond after-hours, including holidays and weekends, in the event of a departmental or City-wide emergency.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • Supports the relationship between the City of Waco and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with residents, visitors, and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information.
  • Lives the City of Waco Values.

Water Plant Operator II
Starting Salary: $30.9700 per hour
Minimum Qualifications:
Required:
  • H.S. Diploma or GED equivalent and 3 years of treatment plant operations, mechanical and electrical repair, maintenance, and installation experience.
  • Valid Texas Driver's License
  • Class B Surface Water License from Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)

Position Overview:
Under basic supervision, performs a combination of basic and semi-skilled work in the operation and maintenance of the Water Treatment Plants (WTP) and related facilities for the Water Utility Services Department.
Employees within this class are distinguished from the Water Plant Operator I by the performance of the full range of duties assigned, including the ability to operate the plant without supervision and train Apprentice employees. Employees at this level will receive minimal instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and will be fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.
Essential Functions:
  • Assists in the operation of WTP facilities and equipment; performs work in accordance with all quality standards, safety regulations and procedures; duties will vary according to job assignment and skill level.
  • Observes and monitors WTP equipment and process control system; cleans, maintains and adjusts equipment and components to meet WTP specifications; collects samples and checks equipment to verify proper operating conditions; maintains records of services performed.
  • Maintains and repairs mechanical equipment and components and performs preventive maintenance as directed; maintains and adjusts equipment to meet job specifications and technical codes; checks equipment to verify proper operating conditions and identify maintenance needs; maintains records of services performed.
  • May be required to respond afterhours, including holidays and weekends, in the event of a departmental or City-wide emergency.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • Supports the relationship between the City of Waco and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with residents, visitors, and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information.
  • Lives the City of Waco Values.

The City of Waco offers a complete benefits package for eligible employees including; health, dental, vision, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Flexible Spending Accounts, life insurance, long term and short term disability, retirement, deferred compensation plans, holidays, vacation, sick leave, credit union and savings bonds.
To learn more about the benefits offered, visit our Benefits page.
Why Work For Waco:
  • Meaningful and challenging work
  • Make a difference and improve communities
  • Competitive Salary and Benefits
    • Full Range of Benefits, including Health, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
    • Mandatory TMRS Retirement Plan with a 2:1 City Match
    • Education Assistance Program
    • Paid Parental Leave
    • Employee Assistance
    • Longevity Pay
    • And More!
  • Chance to do work you are passionate about
  • Desire to give back

01
Do you have a H.S. Diploma or GED equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a Valid Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality issued Class D License?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have a Texas Commission on Environmental Quality issued Class C Surface Water License?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have a Class B Surface Water License from Texas Commission on Environmental Quality?
  • Yes
  • No

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