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How much does a Wastewater Operator make?

The average salary for a Wastewater Operator is $54,161 per year in the US.

Wastewater operators play a key role in keeping communities healthy. They manage and monitor water treatment systems. This job is both important and rewarding. The average yearly salary for a wastewater operator is $54,161. This means many operators earn a good living.

The salary for wastewater operators can vary. Some earn less, while others earn more. Here are some common salary ranges:

  • 25% earn less than $39,606
  • 50% earn less than $50,819
  • 75% earn less than $62,032
  • 90% earn less than $73,245
  • 95% earn less than $78,851

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What are the highest paying cities for a Wastewater Operator?

Job seekers looking for high-paying positions as Wastewater Operators can find excellent opportunities in Seattle, WA, where the average salary reaches $94,155. Los Angeles, CA, offers a competitive salary of $91,505, making it another top choice for professionals in this field. Riverside, CA, Baltimore, MD, and San Diego, CA, also provide attractive salaries, with averages around $76,000 to $75,000. These cities present a range of opportunities for those seeking to advance their careers. Salem, OR, and Portland, OR, offer salaries close to $67,000, while Tucson, AZ, Colorado Springs, CO, and Clarksville, TN, provide solid compensation with averages around $66,000 to $62,000. These locations offer a mix of urban and suburban settings, catering to different lifestyle preferences.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Wastewater Operator jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $94,155 and Clarksville, TN with the lowest at $62,193.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $94,155
    In Seattle, working in wastewater management offers a stable career with a focus on environmental sustainability. Companies like Seattle Public Utilities provide opportunities to contribute to the city's clean water initiatives.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $91,505
    Los Angeles provides a dynamic environment for wastewater professionals. With major employers such as the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts, you can play a key role in managing the city's water resources.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  3. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $76,024
    Riverside offers a growing field for wastewater operators. Working with the Riverside County Sanitation Department, you can help ensure the community's water systems are efficient and effective.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in Riverside, CA


  4. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $75,449
    Baltimore presents a rewarding career in wastewater operations. The Baltimore City Department of Public Works offers a chance to work on large-scale water treatment projects.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in Baltimore, MD


  5. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $75,240
    San Diego is a great place for those in wastewater management. With employers like the City of San Diego Public Utilities, you can contribute to the region's water quality and sustainability efforts.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in San Diego, CA


  6. Salem, OR
    Average Salary: $67,657
    Salem offers a supportive environment for wastewater professionals. Working with the City of Salem Public Works, you can help maintain the city's water infrastructure.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in Salem, OR


  7. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $66,437
    Tucson provides a stable career in wastewater management. The Pima County Water & Wastewater Department offers opportunities to work on important water treatment projects.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ


  8. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $66,275
    Portland offers a vibrant career in wastewater operations. With the Portland Bureau of Environmental Services, you can contribute to the city's clean water initiatives.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in Portland, OR


  9. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $66,270
    Colorado Springs provides a rewarding career in wastewater management. Working with the City of Colorado Springs Utilities, you can help ensure the community's water systems are efficient and effective.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  10. Clarksville, TN
    Average Salary: $62,193
    Clarksville offers a stable career in wastewater operations. The Clarksville Public Works Department provides opportunities to work on important water treatment projects.
    Find Wastewater Operator jobs in Clarksville, TN

What are the best companies a Wastewater Operator can work for?

Job seekers looking for top-paying roles as Wastewater Operators should consider King County, WA, which offers an average salary of $105,143. This position stands out for its competitive pay and benefits. Another excellent option is the City of Oxnard, which provides an average salary of $92,080, making it a strong choice for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Wastewater Operator jobs, highlighting King County, WA with the highest at $105,143 and Adient One LLC. with the lowest at $57,470.
  1. King County, WA
    Average Salary: $105,143
    King County, WA, offers rewarding careers for Wastewater Operators. They manage water treatment and wastewater systems across the county. Locations include Seattle, Bellevue, and Kent. The county provides a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for career growth.


  2. City of Oxnard
    Average Salary: $92,080
    The City of Oxnard provides excellent opportunities for Wastewater Operators. They oversee water treatment and wastewater systems in the city. Oxnard is located in Ventura County, California. The city offers a strong benefits package and a supportive work environment.


  3. Federal Bureau of Prisons
    Average Salary: $84,709
    The Federal Bureau of Prisons offers stable positions for Wastewater Operators. They manage water treatment and wastewater systems in federal prisons nationwide. The bureau provides a competitive salary and benefits, along with job security and opportunities for advancement.


  4. City of Scottsdale
    Average Salary: $71,435
    The City of Scottsdale offers rewarding careers for Wastewater Operators. They manage water treatment and wastewater systems in the city. Scottsdale is located in Maricopa County, Arizona. The city provides a comprehensive benefits package and a supportive work environment.


  5. Town Of Cary
    Average Salary: $64,488
    The Town Of Cary offers excellent opportunities for Wastewater Operators. They manage water treatment and wastewater systems in the town. Cary is located in Wake County, North Carolina. The town provides a competitive salary and benefits, along with opportunities for career growth.


  6. Natural Systems Utilities
    Average Salary: $61,118
    Natural Systems Utilities offers rewarding careers for Wastewater Operators. They manage water treatment and wastewater systems for various clients. Locations include cities across the United States. The company provides a competitive salary and benefits, along with opportunities for career growth.


  7. Veolia
    Average Salary: $60,342
    Veolia offers excellent opportunities for Wastewater Operators. They manage water treatment and wastewater systems for clients worldwide. The company provides a competitive salary and benefits, along with opportunities for career growth and professional development.


  8. American Water
    Average Salary: $60,083
    American Water offers rewarding careers for Wastewater Operators. They manage water treatment and wastewater systems for communities across the United States. The company provides a competitive salary and benefits, along with opportunities for career growth and professional development.


  9. North Texas Municipal Water District
    Average Salary: $58,860
    The North Texas Municipal Water District offers excellent opportunities for Wastewater Operators. They manage water treatment and wastewater systems in the district. Locations include cities across North Texas. The district provides a competitive salary and benefits, along with opportunities for career growth.


  10. Adient One LLC.
    Average Salary: $57,470
    Adient One LLC offers rewarding careers for Wastewater Operators. They manage water treatment and wastewater systems for various clients. Locations include cities across the United States. The company provides a competitive salary and benefits, along with opportunities for career growth.

How to earn more as a Wastewater Operator?

Becoming a Wastewater Operator can lead to a rewarding career with good earning potential. To maximize your earnings, consider these key factors:

First, gaining experience is crucial. Operators with more years on the job often earn higher salaries. Employers value the skills and knowledge that come with experience. Second, obtaining certifications can boost your pay. Certifications show that you have the technical skills needed for the job. Third, working in a larger city or a more industrialized area can lead to higher wages. These areas often have more complex systems and need more skilled operators. Fourth, taking on additional responsibilities can increase your pay. This might include overseeing a team or managing a treatment plant. Finally, continuing education can lead to higher-paying positions. Advanced degrees or specialized training can open doors to better-paying jobs.

Here are some ways to increase your earnings:

  • Gain more experience in the field.
  • Obtain relevant certifications.
  • Work in higher-paying areas.
  • Take on additional responsibilities.
  • Pursue further education and training.

Currently 363 Wastewater Operator job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Wastewater Operator in the US?

Learn what a Wastewater Operator does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Wastewater Operator today.
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Wastewater Operator
363 Job Openings