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Water Utility Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

SunCoke Energy

Utility Operator

East Chicago, IN

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ... Water, Lubricants. Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are ...

SunCoke Energy

Utility Operator

East Chicago, IN · On-site

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ... Water, Lubricants. Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are ...

Pregis

Utility

Elgin, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

The role requires adherence to safety guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures, along with ... Maintains consumables (paper ink water etc.) during production Essential Functions and ...

Albanese Candy

Utility Engineer Manager

Merrillville, IN · On-site

... Water Systems. Perform routine rounds, inspections, readings, and documentation to verify equipment is operating safely and efficiently. Troubleshoot utility system issues and support timely repairs ...

pregis

Utility

Elgin, IL

$20 - $24/hr

The role requires adherence to safety guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures, along with ... Maintains consumables (paper ink water etc.) during production Essential Functions and ...

pregis

Utility Days/Nights

Elgin, IL

$20 - $24/hr

The role requires adherence to safety guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures, along with ... Maintains consumables (paper ink water etc.) during production Essential Functions and ...

Mantis Innovation

Project Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

We look at the entire facility-inside and out-and can impact 70% of what a building operator ... Perform engineering evaluations of energy, water, utility, and infrastructure systems to identify ...

Mantis Innovation

Project Engineer

Schaumburg, IL

We look at the entire facility-inside and out-and can impact 70% of what a building operator ... Perform engineering evaluations of energy, water, utility, and infrastructure systems to identify ...

Mantis Innovation

Project Engineer

Schaumburg, IL

$80K - $115K/yr

We look at the entire facility--inside and out--and can impact 70% of what a building operator ... Perform engineering evaluations of energy, water, utility, and infrastructure systems to identify ...

City of Naperville, IL

Director of Finance

Naperville, IL · On-site

$189K - $208K/yr

... operating and capital budget approaching $700 million. The position oversees budgeting, financial ... and water utility. As a member of the executive leadership team, the Director aligns financial ...

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All JobsWater Utility Operator JobsWater Utility Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Water Utility Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$26

$38

How much do water utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for water utility operator in Chicago, IL is $26.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.54 and $31.68 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 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 popular job titles related to Water Utility Operator jobs in Chicago, IL? For Water Utility Operator jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Utility Operator jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Water Utility Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Water Utility Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Utility Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 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 $55,912 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Senior Utilities Operator

Sterling Engineering Inc.

North Chicago, IL • On-site

$33 - $40/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: Senior Utilities Operator
Location: North Chicago, IL
Hire Type: Contract-to-Hire (Converts after 3 months) | Onsite
Target Pay Range: $33.00 - $40.00/hour (DOE)
Work Schedule: 3rd Shift (11:00 PM - 7:00 AM); Schedule rotates every 4 weeks
Benefits: PTO, Paid Holidays, BCBS Medical, Dental/Vision, 401(k), ESOP

Job Summary:
Our client is seeking an experienced Sr. Utilities Operator to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot critical facility utility systems supporting a large manufacturing and research campus. This role ensures the reliable operation of steam, chilled water, compressed air, purified water, water treatment, natural gas, and other plant utilities while supporting manufacturing, laboratory, and warehouse operations.
The ideal candidate has experience operating industrial utility systems in a manufacturing, pharmaceutical, food & beverage, chemical, or other regulated environment and possesses strong mechanical troubleshooting skills.

Must-Have Skills:
  • 5+ years of industrial maintenance or utilities experience in a manufacturing or regulated environment
  • Experience operating and troubleshooting industrial utility systems
  • Strong mechanical skills with pumps, valves, piping, rotating equipment, process systems, or related
  • Experience performing independent mechanical troubleshooting and repairs
  • Ability to read mechanical drawings, schematics, and/or technical manuals
  • Ability to support a 24/7 operation with occasional overtime or emergency response

Job Duties:
  • Operate and monitor boilers, chillers, compressors, pumps, cooling towers, water treatment, distillation systems, and related utility equipment
  • Monitor utility systems through a DCS and respond to alarms or abnormal conditions
  • Adjust operating parameters to meet facility demands
  • Perform utility sampling and basic water quality testing
  • Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain plant utility equipment
  • Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on utility systems
  • Support equipment installations, startups, modifications, and commissioning activities
  • Conduct inspections, lubrication, and reliability checks
  • Respond to equipment failures and facility emergencies
  • Maintain maintenance records and work orders using CMMS
  • Coordinate work with contractors and maintenance personnel
  • Train employees on equipment operation and safe work practices
  • Follow safety procedures including LOTO and confined space requirements
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives and capital projects
  • Serve as a technical resource for utility operations and maintenance

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 7+ years of industrial maintenance, utilities, or facilities operations experience
  • Experience supporting utility systems in pharmaceutical, biotech, medical device, food, chemical, or other regulated industries preferred
  • Working knowledge of:
    • Boilers, steam, and condensate systems
    • Chilled water systems and cooling towers
    • Oil-free compressed air systems
    • Water treatment and purified water systems
    • Distillation equipment
  • Experience with pump repair/alignment and Maximo (or similar CMMS) preferred
  • Multi-craft maintenance experience (mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, or utilities) preferred
  • Familiarity with GMP environments and Microsoft Office applications
  • Strong troubleshooting, leadership, and organizational skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and work flexible hours as needed

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.