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Water Wastewater Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water/Wastewater Operator

Culpeper, VA ยท On-site

$45K - $73K/yr

Requires Class 1-4 Wastewater and Water Operators licenses within specified time frame. Must possess and maintain a valid Virginia driver's license, Virginia Class B commercial driver's license ...

Water / Wastewater Operator

Forney, TX ยท On-site

$19.50 - $27/hr

Operator I JOB FUNCTION / PURPOSE The Operator I is responsible for operation and maintenance of equipment in water or wastewater treatment facilities. D water or Wastewater license minimum required ...

About the Role We're hiring a Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator to perform a variety of tasks in the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater treatment plant, including equipment ...

Pay: $22.00- $30.00 per hour DOE We're looking for a dependable, safety-conscious Water/Wastewater Operator to join our facility operations team. You'll monitor and control treatment processes ...

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How much do water wastewater operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for water wastewater operator in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water wastewater operator?

Water Wastewater Operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining systems that treat water and wastewater. They monitor and operate equipment to ensure that water is safely processed and meets regulatory standards before being distributed or released into the environment. Their duties often include testing water samples, adjusting chemical levels, troubleshooting equipment, and keeping accurate records. These operators play a critical role in protecting public health and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water wastewater operator?

To thrive as a Water Wastewater Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and often a state-issued operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure safe water quality, regulatory adherence, and efficient plant operations, all critical for public health and environmental protection.

What are some common challenges water wastewater operators face in maintaining regulatory compliance?

Water Wastewater Operators often encounter the challenge of keeping up with evolving environmental regulations and ensuring that all treatment processes consistently meet quality standards. This requires continuous monitoring, accurate record-keeping, and prompt response to any system irregularities. Operators must also stay updated on best practices and technological advancements, as compliance often involves adapting to new equipment or processes. Working closely with regulatory agencies and participating in regular training can help address these challenges and maintain compliance.

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

AspectWater Wastewater OperatorWastewater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsState-specific water and wastewater licensesState wastewater operator license
Work EnvironmentWater treatment plants, distribution systemsWastewater treatment facilities
Industry UsagePublic water utilities, municipalitiesMunicipal wastewater treatment plants

Both roles require similar certifications and work in water-related environments, often within public utilities. The main difference is that Water Wastewater Operators handle both water supply and wastewater processes, while Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators focus solely on wastewater treatment. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the water industry.

How much do water wastewater operators make?

Water wastewater operators in Georgia typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the facility. Entry-level operators may start lower, while experienced operators with advanced certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What are the requirements to be a water wastewater operator?

Water wastewater operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must obtain relevant state certifications or licenses, which often require passing written exams and gaining practical experience. They should have knowledge of water treatment processes, safety procedures, and operate related equipment, with some positions requiring ongoing training or continuing education.

Where do water wastewater operators make the most money?

Water wastewater operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and more advanced infrastructure, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment systems also influence earning potential.
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Infographic showing various Water Wastewater Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,624 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Water/Wastewater Operator

County of Culpeper

Culpeper, VA โ€ข On-site

$45K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Does a career in an everchanging and advancing field interest you. Are you interested in learning about water and wastewater. Does the idea of working at a modernized and automated plant intrigue you.

How about working in an environment that is family oriented and community driven. If you said yes to any of these questions, you should consider coming to Culpeper County, with our advanced treatment plants, amazing staff, training, and opportunities for advancement. Responsible for performing a variety of duties related to the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater plants in accordance with State and Federal water quality regulations.

Pay is based on licensure level attained by the employee. Duties and responsibilities vary slightly depending upon licensure level. Job Functions ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Engages in the safe and compliant operation, and monitoring, of the County's water, wastewater treatment facilities, and distribution and collection systems Follows standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements for operating water and wastewater treatment systems Collects regulatory samples and maintains plant records and audit documentation Maintains appropriate inventories of chemicals, operator supplies and personal protective equipment Performs a variety of preventive maintenance tasks associated with operating water and sewer treatment systems and associated collection and distribution systems Reads water meters, conducts utility inspections, and supervises contractors Inspects construction of water and sewer utilities to ensure they are built to County standards Reading blueprints and document inspections NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Performs general and preventive maintenance, supervise inmate or community service work force, when needed Class 1 and Class 2 Wastewater Operators may be assigned duties and responsibilities of the Water/Wastewater Lab Manager, when needed Qualifications Education and Experience: Education equivalent to a high school diploma.

Special Qualifications: Must possess satisfactory results of a criminal history background check. Requires Class 1-4 Wastewater and Water Operators licenses within specified time frame. Must possess and maintain a valid Virginia driver's license, Virginia Class B commercial driver's license preferred.

OSHA Industrial including lock out tag out procedures, confined space entry. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of the principles, laws, procedures and regulations of water and wastewater treatment Knowledge of the biological, chemical, and physical processes of water and wastewater treatment Knowledge and ability to operate, monitor, and maintain water and wastewater plant machinery and equipment Ability to evaluate operational process performance and to select appropriate actions Knowledge of appropriate operational responses to emergency situations Ability to write accurate reports and maintain accurate records Skilled in using a computer and various software applications Ability to perform heavy physical work Ability to follow safety procedures Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment Working Conditions & Disclaimer PHYSICAL DEMANDS This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as heavy. Must be physically able to operate water/wastewater equipment.

Must be able to exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 25 pounds of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. May occasionally involve heavier objects and materials (up to 125 pounds). May be required to work afterhours, on weekends, or on call.

Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors. Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate depths. Some tasks require visual perception and discrimination.

Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate odors. WORK ENVIRONMENT Essential functions are regularly performed in at the various water/wastewater facilities. Tasks may risk exposure to chemicals, odors, machinery, wetness, dust, fumes, dirt, vibrations, electricity, driving and confined spaces.

Disclaimer The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications as required of employees assigned to this job. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Culpeper County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

General Sign-off: The employee is expected to adhere to all County policies and to act as a role model in the adherence to the policies. The above information in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performance by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications as required of employees assigned to this job.

Culpeper County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Culpeper County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.