How much does a Utility Operator make?
Utility operators play a key role in keeping communities running smoothly. They manage water, sewage, and other utility systems. The average yearly salary for a utility operator is $46,496. This means that, on average, utility operators earn a solid income. Their work is important, and so is their pay.
The salary for utility operators can vary based on experience and location. Here are some average salaries at different experience levels:
- Entry-level: $32,000
- Early career: $36,083
- Mid-career: $40,165
- Experienced: $48,331
- Late career: $52,414
- Early post-retirement: $56,496
What are the highest paying cities for a Utility Operator?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $80,000
In Washington, DC, you can find rewarding work with the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority. This role involves maintaining the city's water and wastewater systems. The job offers a stable environment with opportunities for career growth.
Find Utility Operator jobs in Washington, DC
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $56,814
Albuquerque, NM, provides a unique setting for those in utility operations. The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority is a key employer. Here, you will manage water resources and ensure the city's water supply is reliable.
Find Utility Operator jobs in Albuquerque, NM
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $56,527
Omaha, NE, offers a dynamic environment for utility operators. The city's Metropolitan Utilities District is a major employer. This role involves overseeing water and wastewater systems, ensuring the community has access to clean water.
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Tulsa, OK
Average Salary: $54,072
In Tulsa, OK, you can work with the Tulsa Water Utilities. This job involves maintaining the city's water infrastructure. The role offers a chance to contribute to the community's well-being and enjoy a stable career.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $53,060
Columbus, OH, provides a solid career path for utility operators. The Columbus Water Works is a key employer. This role involves managing water systems and ensuring the city's water supply is safe and reliable.
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Sioux Falls, SD
Average Salary: $50,540
Sioux Falls, SD, offers a supportive environment for utility operators. The city's Water Utilities department is a major employer. This role involves overseeing water and wastewater systems, contributing to the community's health and safety.
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Lincoln, NE
Average Salary: $49,601
Lincoln, NE, provides a stable career for utility operators. The Lincoln Water System is a key employer. This role involves managing water resources and ensuring the city's water supply is reliable.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $46,679
In Grand Rapids, MI, you can work with the Grand Rapids Water & Light. This role involves maintaining the city's water and wastewater systems. The job offers a stable environment with opportunities for career growth.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $46,650
Indianapolis, IN, offers a rewarding career for utility operators. The city's Department of Public Works is a major employer. This role involves managing water systems and ensuring the community has access to clean water.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $45,854
Rochester, NY, provides a dynamic environment for utility operators. The city's Water Authority is a key employer. This role involves overseeing water and wastewater systems, ensuring the city's water supply is safe and reliable.
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What are the best companies a Utility Operator can work for?

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Wheelabrator Technologies Inc.
Average Salary: $63,424
Wheelabrator Technologies Inc. offers rewarding Utility Operator jobs. They operate in various locations across the United States. Employees manage waste-to-energy plants, ensuring efficient operations. They work on-site at facilities in states like New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida.
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Land O'Lakes
Average Salary: $53,674
Land O'Lakes provides Utility Operator jobs with a focus on agricultural operations. They have locations in Minnesota, Idaho, and California. Employees maintain and operate equipment to support farming activities. They ensure the smooth operation of facilities that support the company's agricultural products.
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Sherwin-Williams
Average Salary: $51,439
Sherwin-Williams offers Utility Operator jobs in their manufacturing facilities. They operate in multiple states, including Ohio, Texas, and California. Employees manage water treatment and waste management systems. They ensure the facilities run efficiently and comply with environmental regulations.
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Gerdau
Average Salary: $50,567
Gerdau provides Utility Operator jobs in its steel manufacturing plants. They operate in states like Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Texas. Employees manage water treatment and recycling systems. They ensure the plants operate efficiently and meet environmental standards.
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Holcim
Average Salary: $49,283
Holcim offers Utility Operator jobs in their cement manufacturing facilities. They operate in states like Texas, California, and Florida. Employees manage water treatment and waste management systems. They ensure the plants run efficiently and comply with environmental regulations.
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Nestlé Purina
Average Salary: $48,797
Nestlé Purina provides Utility Operator jobs in their pet food manufacturing plants. They operate in states like Missouri, Illinois, and California. Employees manage water treatment and waste management systems. They ensure the plants run efficiently and meet environmental standards.
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American Packaging Corporation
Average Salary: $47,604
American Packaging Corporation offers Utility Operator jobs in their manufacturing facilities. They operate in multiple states, including Ohio, Indiana, and California. Employees manage water treatment and waste management systems. They ensure the plants run efficiently and comply with environmental regulations.
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Mars
Average Salary: $46,100
Mars provides Utility Operator jobs in their manufacturing facilities. They operate in states like Pennsylvania, Illinois, and California. Employees manage water treatment and waste management systems. They ensure the plants run efficiently and meet environmental standards.
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ROYAL OAK ENTERPRISES
Average Salary: $43,416
ROYAL OAK ENTERPRISES offers Utility Operator jobs in their manufacturing facilities. They operate in states like Texas, California, and Florida. Employees manage water treatment and waste management systems. They ensure the plants run efficiently and comply with environmental regulations.
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Cargill
Average Salary: $43,288
Cargill provides Utility Operator jobs in their manufacturing facilities. They operate in multiple states, including Minnesota, Kansas, and California. Employees manage water treatment and waste management systems. They ensure the plants run efficiently and meet environmental standards.
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 higher earning potential. Investing in education and certifications can open doors to better-paying positions. Gaining experience in different utility systems also broadens job opportunities.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Utility Operator:
- Education and Certifications: Completing relevant courses and obtaining certifications can lead to higher-paying jobs. These credentials show a commitment to professional growth.
- Experience: Working in various roles and gaining experience in different utility systems can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Experience often leads to higher salaries.
- Specializations: Focusing on specific areas like water treatment, wastewater management, or electrical systems can lead to specialized roles. These roles often come with higher pay.
- Safety and Efficiency: Demonstrating a strong commitment to safety and efficiency can lead to promotions and higher pay. Employers value operators who can improve system performance.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities that pay more. Networking with other professionals in the field can open doors to better positions.



