How much does a Utility Operator make?
A Utility Operator plays a key role in ensuring that communities have access to essential services like water, electricity, and gas. This job offers a stable career path with a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a Utility Operator is around $46,211. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of utility being managed.
The salary range for Utility Operators can be quite broad. At the lower end, some operators earn around $31,950 per year. As experience and skills grow, salaries can increase significantly. The highest earners in this field can make upwards of $75,860 annually. This range reflects the importance of the role and the potential for career advancement. Utility Operators who gain more experience or specialize in certain areas often see their salaries rise.
What are the highest paying cities for a Utility Operator?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $80,000
In Washington, DC, professionals manage water and wastewater systems. They work for the DC Water and ensure the city's water supply is clean and safe. The job offers opportunities to collaborate with government agencies.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $55,971
Albuquerque offers a unique environment for those who manage water and wastewater systems. The city's Water Department focuses on sustainability. Employees here often work on innovative projects to conserve water.
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $55,793
Omaha's utility operators play a key role in maintaining the city's water and wastewater systems. They work for the Metropolitan Utilities District. The job involves regular maintenance and ensuring the systems run smoothly.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $55,627
Minneapolis has a strong focus on environmental sustainability. Utility operators here manage the city's water and wastewater systems. They work for the Department of Public Works and focus on keeping the systems efficient.
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Tulsa, OK
Average Salary: $53,370
Tulsa offers a dynamic environment for utility operators. They work with the city's Water Department to ensure clean water and proper wastewater treatment. The job involves both maintenance and monitoring tasks.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $53,140
In Columbus, professionals manage the city's water and wastewater systems. They work for the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks. The job includes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the systems are in good condition.
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Sioux Falls, SD
Average Salary: $50,112
Sioux Falls offers a stable environment for utility operators. They work for the city's Water Department to ensure the water supply is safe. The job involves routine maintenance and responding to any issues that arise.
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Lincoln, NE
Average Salary: $49,601
Lincoln's utility operators manage the city's water and wastewater systems. They work for the Lincoln Water System. The job includes monitoring water quality and ensuring the systems operate efficiently.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $46,904
In Indianapolis, professionals manage water and wastewater systems. They work for the Department of Public Works. The job involves regular maintenance and ensuring the systems are running smoothly.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $46,773
Grand Rapids offers a variety of opportunities for utility operators. They work for the city's Water Department to ensure clean water and proper wastewater treatment. The job includes routine maintenance and monitoring tasks.
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What are the best companies a Utility Operator can work for?

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Wheelabrator Technologies Inc.
Average Salary: $62,673
Wheelabrator Technologies Inc. offers Utility Operator jobs with a focus on waste management and energy production. They operate in various locations across the United States, providing opportunities for professionals to work in different environments.
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Abbott
Average Salary: $55,409
Abbott provides Utility Operator jobs with a focus on healthcare and nutrition. They have facilities in many parts of the world, offering diverse work settings. Abbott values skilled operators who can manage complex systems.
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Land O'Lakes
Average Salary: $51,727
Land O'Lakes offers Utility Operator jobs in the agricultural and food sectors. They operate in multiple locations across the United States, providing opportunities for professionals to work in various agricultural settings.
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Sherwin-Williams
Average Salary: $51,496
Sherwin-Williams provides Utility Operator jobs in the paint and coatings industry. They have facilities in many parts of the world, offering diverse work environments. Sherwin-Williams values operators who can handle large-scale production processes.
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Nestlé Purina
Average Salary: $49,648
Nestlé Purina offers Utility Operator jobs in the pet food industry. They operate in various locations across the United States, providing opportunities for professionals to work in different settings. Nestlé Purina values skilled operators who can manage production facilities.
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Holcim
Average Salary: $49,223
Holcim provides Utility Operator jobs in the construction materials industry. They have facilities in many parts of the world, offering diverse work environments. Holcim values operators who can manage large-scale production processes.
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Watco
Average Salary: $48,545
Watco offers Utility Operator jobs in the rail transportation industry. They operate in various locations across the United States, providing opportunities for professionals to work in different settings. Watco values skilled operators who can manage complex systems.
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North Central Service Inc
Average Salary: $48,000
North Central Service Inc. provides Utility Operator jobs in the utility services industry. They operate in multiple locations across the United States, offering diverse work settings. North Central Service Inc. values operators who can handle large-scale production processes.
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American Packaging Corporation
Average Salary: $47,475
American Packaging Corporation offers Utility Operator jobs in the packaging industry. They have facilities in many parts of the United States, providing opportunities for professionals to work in different settings. American Packaging Corporation values skilled operators who can manage production facilities.
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Mars
Average Salary: $46,233
Mars provides Utility Operator jobs in the food and confectionery industry. They operate in various locations across the United States, offering diverse work environments. Mars values operators who can handle large-scale production processes.
How to earn more as a Utility Operator?
A Utility Operator can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on key areas, one can enhance their skills and value in the job market. This leads to better job opportunities and higher pay. Investing in education and certifications can open doors to higher-paying positions. Gaining experience in different areas of utility operations can also lead to more job offers and higher salaries.
Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings as a Utility Operator:
- Education and Certifications: Completing additional training and obtaining certifications can lead to higher-paying jobs. These credentials show a commitment to the field and can make a candidate more attractive to employers.
- Experience: Working in a variety of roles and gaining experience in different utility systems can increase a Utility Operator's value. Employers often pay more for experienced workers who can handle a range of tasks.
- Specialization: Specializing in a particular area, such as water treatment, wastewater management, or electrical systems, can lead to higher pay. Specializations often require more advanced skills and knowledge, which employers are willing to pay for.
- Location: Working in areas with a high demand for utility operators can lead to higher salaries. Urban areas and regions with growing infrastructure often offer better pay.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities that offer higher pay. Attending industry events, joining professional associations, and connecting with others in the field can open doors to better-paying jobs.