1

Water Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

The Town of Granby is hiring a Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This is a full-time, benefited position, with health care, dental care, retirement, and paid time off programs available.

The Town of Granby is hiring a Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This is a full-time, benefited position, with health care, dental care, retirement, and paid time off programs available.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Water information

See Colorado salary details

$36.8K

$91.3K

$149.8K

How much do water jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for water in Colorado is $91,268.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,800.00 and $116,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are water jobs?

Water jobs refer to a wide range of careers focused on the management, treatment, distribution, conservation, and protection of water resources. These jobs include roles such as water treatment plant operators, hydrologists, water quality scientists, engineers, and technicians who work to ensure safe and sustainable water supplies. Professionals in this field may work for government agencies, utilities, environmental organizations, or private companies, addressing challenges like water scarcity, pollution, and infrastructure maintenance. Water jobs are essential for public health, environmental protection, and economic development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water treatment plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Treatment Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of water chemistry, mechanical systems, and environmental regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma and relevant state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and safety protocols is crucial for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for monitoring system performance and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe and efficient delivery of clean water, protect public health, and maintain regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by water treatment plant operators on a daily basis?

Water treatment plant operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, maintaining strict regulatory compliance, and adapting to fluctuations in water quality due to weather or seasonal changes. They must work closely with maintenance staff and laboratory technicians to troubleshoot issues and ensure the safety and reliability of the water supply. Operators also need to stay updated on evolving technologies and best practices to optimize plant operations and meet environmental standards.

What is the difference between Water vs Plumber?

AspectWaterPlumber
Required CredentialsNone specific, basic knowledge of water systemsTrade license or certification, plumbing apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentWater treatment plants, distribution systems, industrial sitesResidential, commercial, industrial plumbing installations and repairs
Industry UsageInvolves managing water supply and qualityFocuses on installing and repairing plumbing systems

While 'Water' refers broadly to water systems and management, a 'Plumber' is a skilled tradesperson specializing in installing and repairing plumbing systems. Both roles are interconnected, but plumbers require specific certifications and work directly with water infrastructure in various settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Water jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Water jobs in Colorado?

For Water jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Water jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Water jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Water job openings:

Infographic showing various Water job openings in Colorado as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,268 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Water Dist. Assoc. Tech / Water Dist. Tech / Water Dist. Sr. Tech. - Valve Ops

Denver, CO • On-site

Denver Water
Utilities • 1 - 5K employees

$20 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Denver Water rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Working for Denver Water offers a rewarding and comprehensive employment experience marked by exceptional benefits and a strong organizational culture. Employees enjoy a robust 401(k) plan with employer contributions, a secure pension fund to support long-term financial well-being, and high-quality benefits that include a generous PTO package as well as medical, dental, and vision coverage.
At the heart of Denver Water's workplace are its core values: vision, integrity, passion, excellence, and respect. These principles guide every aspect of the organization, fostering a collaborative and purpose-driven environment where employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the community and the future of water sustainability.
We are currently hiring for three Water Distribution Associate Techs - Emergency Services for day and swing shift. Applicants must be comfortable working either schedule.
Under direct supervision, Water Distribution Associate Technician performs field activities related to the operation and maintenance of the distribution system. Responds to emergency-related tasks that occur throughout the distribution system. Operates distribution and transmission valves and isolates water mains for both internal and external customers. Conducts water quality investigations for individual customers with water quality issues. Performs inspection and maintenance on distribution assets including tasks such as flushing, valve exercising, pressure regulating valve calibration, etc.
Position Summary
Under direct supervision, Water Distribution Associate Technician performs field activities related to the operation and maintenance of the distribution system. Responds to emergency-related tasks that occur throughout the distribution system. Operates distribution and transmission valves and isolates water mains for both internal and external customers. Conducts water quality investigations for individual customers with water quality issues. Performs inspection and maintenance on distribution assets including tasks such as flushing, valve exercising, pressure regulating valve calibration, etc.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities over other employees.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Act as first responders to investigate reported leaks. Determine responsibility for leak repairs and make appropriate notifications. Issue leak notices. Generate work orders to initiate repairs.
  • Operate valves and hydrants. Perform fire flow tests as required.
  • Perform maintenance on distribution assets including tasks such as flushing, valve exercising, pressure regulating valve calibration, etc.
  • Perform facility inspections at pump stations, decentralization stations, and job sites.
  • Provide assistance to other Water Distribution workgroups such as System Operations, Utility Locating, T&D Construction and Maintenance.
  • Perform activities such as unidirectional flushing, sampling, and analyses to monitor, maintain, and improve water quality in the distribution system. Ensure compliance with applicable discharge permits.
  • Monitor SCADA and investigate pressure problems within the distribution system. Perform valve surveys.
  • Under direct supervision, perform complex shutouts at pump stations and of transmission and distribution systems associated with capital construction projects. Perform dewatering, disinfection, dichlorination, and flushing operations.
  • Under direct supervision, perform leak detection services.
  • Provide after-hours coverage for Customer Service Field related to service turn-ons and turn-offs, meter issues, and billing inquiries.
  • Ensure that all work is performed in accordance with Departmental safety standards and policies.
  • May be required to perform on-call duty, work shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as directed, and work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
  • Must be able to perform safety-sensitive functions.
  • Perform related work as required

In addition, Water Distribution Sr. Techs will:
  • Perform complex shutouts at pump stations and of transmission and distribution systems associated with capital construction projects. Perform dewatering, disinfection, dichlorination, and flushing operations.
  • Perform leak detection services.
  • Train other personnel on PRVs and conduit isolations as required.

Minimum Requirements
Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum 1 year of related work experience. - Water Dist. Assoc. Tech
  • Minimum 3 years of related work experience. - Water Dist. Tech
  • Minimum 4 years of related work experience. - Sr. Tech
  • Career progression to Water Distribution Sr Technician requires at least 500 hours of work experience in the Valve Operations workgroup. - Sr. Tech
  • Any equivalent combination of certifications, education, or experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities for the position.

Licenses, Registration, and Certifications
  • Colorado Water Distribution Class 1 Certificate required within 18 months of appointment. - Water Dist. Assoc. Tech
  • Colorado Water Distribution Class 2 Certificate. - Water Dist. Tech
  • Colorado Water Distribution Class 2 Certificate. - Sr. Tech
  • Must be able to possess and maintain a valid Class 'R' Colorado driver's license and have a satisfactory driving record at time of hire.

Safety Sensitive Requirements
  • This is a safety sensitive job where an employee's direct action/inaction may lead to immediate harm to self, team, or the public and/or will have significant risk to the mission of Denver Water. To promote the safety, employees in this job must possess English proficiency adequate to effectively communicate with customers and coworkers, including proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

What Denver Water employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom