Position
Salary

How much does a Water Operator make?

The average salary for a Water Operator is $56,429 per year in the US.

Water operators play a key role in maintaining and managing public water systems. They ensure safe and clean water supply to communities. The average yearly salary for a water operator is $56,429. This means most water operators earn between $32,000 and $88,399 annually.

The salary for a water operator varies by experience and location. Those with more experience and advanced certifications often earn higher salaries. Cities and large towns typically offer higher wages compared to smaller communities. A well-qualified water operator can expect to earn more than the average, especially in metropolitan areas.

View Water Operator jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Water Operator?

Fort Collins, CO, offers the highest average salary for Water Operator jobs at nearly $70,100. This is a great option for those seeking a lucrative career in water operations. In addition to a competitive salary, Phoenix, AZ, and Tucson, AZ, also provide promising opportunities with average salaries around $55,000 and $57,000, respectively. Job seekers should note that other cities like Pittsburgh, PA, Columbia, MO, and Salt Lake City, UT, also offer solid salaries ranging from $50,500 to $53,000. These locations provide stable and rewarding career paths in water operations.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Water Operator jobs, highlighting Fort Collins, CO with the highest at $70,099 and Salt Lake City, UT with the lowest at $50,519.
  1. Fort Collins, CO
    Average Salary: $70,099
    In Fort Collins, working in water operations means you help ensure clean water supply. The city’s strong focus on sustainability makes this role crucial. Major employers like the City of Fort Collins offer stable opportunities.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Fort Collins, CO


  2. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $57,017
    Tucson offers water operator positions in a city known for its water conservation efforts. Companies like the Tucson Water play a big role in managing the area’s water resources. Being a part of these efforts can be both rewarding and impactful.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ


  3. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $54,927
    Phoenix has a growing need for water operators to manage the city's water supply. Employers such as Salt River Project provide important services. This job can offer a good balance of responsibility and community service.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  4. Pittsburgh, PA
    Average Salary: $53,111
    In Pittsburgh, water operators play a key role in maintaining the city's water infrastructure. Working with companies like the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority means contributing to the city's clean water supply. This role combines technical skills with community impact.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Pittsburgh, PA


  5. Columbia, MO
    Average Salary: $50,662
    Columbia offers a chance to work as a water operator for a city that values clean water. Employers such as the City of Columbia look for skilled operators to maintain water quality. This job can provide a good mix of steady work and community service.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Columbia, MO


  6. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $50,519
    Salt Lake City has a need for water operators who manage the city's water systems. Employers like the Salt Lake City Public Utilities focus on providing reliable water services. This role allows for professional growth and community contribution.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Salt Lake City, UT

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

Veolia offers one of the top-paying positions for Water Operators, with an average salary of $60,827. Golden State Water Company also provides competitive compensation, paying around $59,264 on average. For those considering local opportunities, the City of Flagstaff, AZ, pays about $58,287 for this role, making it a solid choice. These companies show that skilled Water Operators can find rewarding positions with good pay.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Water Operator jobs, highlighting Veolia with the highest at $60,827 and HKA Enterprises with the lowest at $42,736.
  1. Veolia
    Average Salary: $60,827
    Veolia offers rewarding careers in water operations. They manage water and wastewater systems across various locations. Job opportunities are available in many major cities, including Los Angeles and San Francisco. Veolia focuses on sustainability and technology in water management.


  2. Golden State Water Company
    Average Salary: $59,264
    Golden State Water Company provides water operator roles with competitive pay. This company serves many parts of California, including Sacramento and San Diego. They offer a stable work environment and opportunities for growth. Golden State Water Company values experience and technical skills in their operators.


  3. City of Flagstaff, AZ
    Average Salary: $58,287
    The City of Flagstaff offers water operator positions with a focus on community service. They manage water systems in Flagstaff, Arizona. This role includes working with the public and ensuring clean water supply. The city provides a supportive work environment with many benefits.


  4. HKA Enterprises
    Average Salary: $42,736
    HKA Enterprises has water operator jobs that provide a solid starting point. They offer roles in various locations, such as Atlanta and Denver. HKA focuses on providing training and career development. They emphasize teamwork and community involvement in their operations.

How to earn more as a Water Operator?

Working as a Water Operator can lead to a rewarding career with good pay. The demand for skilled operators continues to grow, creating more opportunities for higher earnings. By focusing on certain key areas, individuals can increase their income and job prospects. Here are some ways to earn more as a Water Operator.

First, gaining additional certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications in areas like advanced water treatment, wastewater collection systems, or automation control can make an operator more valuable. Employers often pay more for these specialized skills. Second, gaining experience in different environments helps. Working in both small and large facilities offers diverse skills that can lead to higher-paying jobs. Third, continuing education is important. Attending workshops and conferences helps operators stay current with industry trends and technologies. Fourth, gaining leadership skills can open up higher-paying roles. Experience in supervisory positions prepares operators for management roles. Finally, networking with other professionals can lead to job opportunities that offer higher pay.

Here are five key factors to help increase earnings:

  1. Obtain additional certifications
  2. Gain experience in different facilities
  3. Continue education with workshops and conferences
  4. Develop leadership skills
  5. Network with industry professionals

Currently 123 Water Operator job openings, nationwide.

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

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