Position
Salary
Water operators work to ensure that communities have clean and safe water. They monitor water systems and control equipment to maintain water quality. If you consider a career as a water operator, understanding the salary can help guide your decision.
Water operators earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a water operator is about $54,518. Many new operators can expect to start in the lower range, while those with more experience can move up. The salary can vary based on factors like location, experience, and education. For example, operators with advanced training and certifications may earn more. This career offers a stable income and room for growth as you gain experience.
Here is a breakdown of what different levels of water operators might earn:

Fort Collins, CO
Average Salary: $67,004
Working in Fort Collins means contributing to one of the nation's cleanest and safest water systems. This thriving city provides stable employment and growth opportunities. Companies like the City of Fort Collins Water Utilities offer rewarding careers.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $64,987
Santa Maria's water operations are crucial for the community's well-being. Employees here enjoy a pleasant climate and a strong sense of community. The Santa Maria Valley Water Agency is a key employer in the region.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $56,554
In Tucson, professionals ensure the efficient distribution of water. The desert climate here presents unique challenges and learning opportunities. The Tucson Water department is a leading employer in the area.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $54,300
Phoenix offers a dynamic environment for those in the water industry. The city's growth creates many opportunities for career advancement. Employers like the Salt River Project provide excellent work conditions.
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Salem, OR
Average Salary: $52,349
Salem provides a supportive and collaborative atmosphere for water operators. Employees benefit from a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The City of Salem's utilities department is a key employer.
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Columbia, MO
Average Salary: $49,908
Columbia offers a balanced lifestyle and a growing job market. The city’s water systems are modern and well-maintained. The Columbia Water and Sewer offers stable employment and career growth.
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Salt Lake City, UT
Average Salary: $49,112
Salt Lake City provides a variety of challenges and opportunities for water operators. The city’s focus on innovation benefits employees. Employers like the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities offer promising career paths.
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Golden State Water Company
Average Salary: $59,831
Golden State Water Company is known for its commitment to providing safe and clean water to communities. They offer competitive salaries and benefits to their Water Operators, who work in various locations across California.
Veolia
Average Salary: $59,425
Veolia is a global leader in water management. They employ Water Operators in multiple states, ensuring water treatment and distribution services are efficient. Veolia values its staff and offers a solid compensation package.
Town of Essex
Average Salary: $51,283
The Town of Essex provides essential water services to its residents. Water Operators in Essex enjoy a supportive work environment and a good salary. The company operates in Essex, providing essential services to the community.
City of Columbia, MO
Average Salary: $49,684
The City of Columbia is dedicated to clean water for its citizens. Water Operators here manage local water systems. They offer a competitive salary and a chance to serve the community effectively.
Inframark
Average Salary: $44,809
Inframark specializes in infrastructure services, including water management. They employ Water Operators in various regions. The company is known for its supportive work culture and good pay.
Adient One LLC.
Average Salary: $44,564
Adient One LLC focuses on water and wastewater services. They provide good salaries for Water Operators in multiple locations. The company values its employees and offers a stable work environment.
HKA Enterprises
Average Salary: $43,767
HKA Enterprises offers essential water management services. Water Operators here work in various locations and enjoy a fair salary. The company emphasizes community service and employee well-being.
Becoming a highly skilled Water Operator opens the door to many opportunities for career advancement and higher pay. It is important to focus on continuous learning and gaining experience to maximize earning potential. One way to do this is by becoming certified in specialized areas of water treatment and distribution. Certifications can lead to higher-paying positions.
Another factor is gaining experience in different areas of water operations. Working in various roles can help build a broad skill set. This can make an operator more valuable to potential employers. Moving to a larger city or urban area can also lead to higher pay. These places often have higher salaries for water operators due to higher living costs and greater demand for skilled workers.
Networking with other professionals in the field can provide opportunities for career advancement and higher pay. Attending industry events and joining professional organizations can help build connections. These connections can lead to new job opportunities and higher salaries.
Here are five factors that can help a Water Operator earn more: