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Water Utility Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

... water supply, and outgoing wastewater pre-treatment systems . This role supports continuous plant ... Ability to obtain and maintain Ammonia Operator II certification. * Ability to obtain and maintain ...

... water supply, and outgoing wastewater pre-treatment systems. This role supports continuous plant ... Assist with maintaining operating procedures and process safety information related to energy and ...

... water supply, and outgoing wastewater pre-treatment systems . This role supports continuous plant ... Ability to obtain and maintain Ammonia Operator II certification. * Ability to obtain and maintain ...

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Water Utility Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$13

$26

$37

How much do water utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for water utility operator in Wisconsin is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $31.06 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.
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Water Utility Operator jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Water Utility Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Utility Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,783 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Utility Maintenance Worker

City of Rhinelander, WI

Rhinelander, WI • On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Salary : $50,502.40 - $53,352.00 Annually
Location : 135 S. Stevens Street, Rhinelander, WI
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26-010
Department: Administration
Opening Date: 06/29/2026
Closing Date: 7/29/2026 11:30 PM Central
Summary of Job
Job Title: Utility Maintenance Worker
Department: Water Department
Immediate Supervisor: Water Department Superintendent
Full time - $24.38-$25.65
***TO APPLY: email resume to
The Utility Maintenance Worker will routinely operate and perform maintenance upon the water distribution, sanitary and storm water collection systems. This employee will work both independently or as part of a crew to complete assigned work tasks. This employee shall work rotating weekend shifts as per the agreed work schedule
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Operate heavy equipment, such as tractors, backhoes, front-end loaders, jetter, vac truck and other machinery in a safe and effective manner.
• Operate computer and office equipment as required to receive and document utility activities.
• Perform daily safety and maintenance checks; responsible for preventative maintenance duties including lubrication and inspection of mechanical equipment; cleaning and installation of underground piping, valves, manholes and equipment to maintain proper operating conditions.
• Perform "Diggers Hotline" requests.
• Properly locate, document and accurately record utility construction and other activities.
• Maintain utility buildings, structures and grounds.
• Perform other utility duties or maintenance as directed by the Water Superintendent or designated Supervisor.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
• HS Diploma or equivalent.
• Must be able to obtain CDL licenses "B, C, D and N" within 12 months from date of employment.
• Shall be a licensed water operator or qualified to become one within 12 months from the date of employment.
Physical and Environmental Factors:
• Physical demand requirements are at levels of those for heavy work.
• Must have the ability to work in an outside environment containing dust, snow, rain and ice.
• This position requires: stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motion. Must be able to exert up to 75 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 70 pounds of force frequently
Job Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
• Knowledge of the operation of backhoes, front-end loaders, vac truck, dump trucks, thawing equipment and other routinely used utility equipment items.
• Knowledge of required equipment operational safety, and, experience in equipment cleaning and maintenance.
• Knowledge in the operation, construction, maintenance and troubleshooting of water distribution, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer collection systems.
• Knowledge of installing, testing, reading and repairing water meters.
• Knowledge of electrical and other equipment used for thawing frozen portions of the utility systems.
• Ability to work independently or as a member of a team successfully.
• Ability to read and write to record routine utility activities and records.
• Ability to work with the public and outside contractors in manner that represents City favorably.
• Ability to observe, adapt and react effectively in emergency situations.
• Ability to make joints of various types, drilling and tapping mains and installing any of the appurtenances of the water, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer utility systems.
• Ability to adapt to periodic assignment to other tasks within the department and relating to other City departments.
• Ability to work designated hours of the position, to include rotating weekend shifts
Vacation/9 Paid Holidays/3 Floating Holidays
Sick Time -
Credit Earned at 8 hours each month employed
Employee Assistance Program
YMCA corporate membership
Aspirus Signature Health Plan (HDHP $5,000/$10,000) w/ HRA $3,000/$6,000 w/HSA
Single $ 89.64/month
Two Party $179.27/month
Family $268.90/month
Aspirus Signature Health Plan (HDHP $5,000/$10,000) w/HSA
Single $ 0/month
Two Party $ 0/month
Family $ 0/month
Aspirus Broad Network Health Plan Options also available
Delta Dental Insurance
Single $17.30/month
Family $52.07/month
Vision Insurance
Single $5.51/month
Family $13.72/month
ID Shield
Single $8.95/Month
Family $18.95/Month
Legal Shield
Single $16.95/Month
Family $18.95/Month
Wisconsin Retirement System
Employee Contribution 6.75%
Employer Contribution 6.75%
Deferred Compensation Options
Wisconsin Public Employers Group Life Insurance Options
Income Continuation Insurance
AFLAC