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How much does a Water Operator make?

The average salary for a Water Operator is $52,726 per year in the US.

Water operators play a key role in ensuring communities have clean and safe water. They work in water treatment plants, pumping stations, and other facilities. The average yearly salary for a water operator is around $52,726. This job offers a stable income and the chance to make a real difference in public health.

The salary for water operators can vary based on experience and location. Here are some common salary ranges:

  • The lowest 10% earn about $33,000 per year.
  • The next 20% earn between $33,000 and $43,648.
  • The middle 20% earn between $43,648 and $54,296.
  • The next 20% earn between $54,296 and $64,944.
  • The top 10% earn more than $64,944 per year.

View Water Operator jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Water Operator?

Job seekers looking for Water Operator roles can find some of the best pay in Santa Maria, CA, where the average salary reaches $67,151. Colorado Springs, CO, and Tucson, AZ, also offer competitive wages, with averages of $58,296 and $57,147, respectively. These cities provide attractive opportunities for those seeking higher earnings in the water operations field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Water Operator jobs, highlighting Santa Maria, CA with the highest at $67,151 and Salt Lake City, UT with the lowest at $47,072.
  1. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $67,151
    In Santa Maria, working in water management offers a stable career with good benefits. The city's water treatment facilities are well-maintained, providing a safe work environment. Companies like Santa Maria Water Services are known for their commitment to quality.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Santa Maria, CA


  2. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $58,296
    Colorado Springs provides a dynamic environment for water operators. The city's focus on sustainability makes it a great place to work. Employers like the City of Colorado Springs Utilities are dedicated to innovation and employee development.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  3. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $57,147
    Tucson offers a unique setting for water management professionals. The city's diverse climate and water needs create interesting challenges. Companies such as Tucson Water are known for their strong community focus and employee support.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ


  4. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $54,283
    Phoenix is a bustling city with a high demand for water operators. The city's large population and arid climate make it a critical area for water management. Employers like Salt River Project provide excellent career growth opportunities.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  5. Salem, OR
    Average Salary: $52,349
    Salem offers a balanced lifestyle for those in water management. The city's commitment to environmental stewardship creates a positive work atmosphere. Companies such as Salem Water Utilities are known for their dedication to quality and safety.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Salem, OR


  6. Columbia, MO
    Average Salary: $50,166
    Columbia provides a supportive environment for water operators. The city's focus on education and community makes it a great place to work. Employers like Columbia Water & Light are committed to employee development and job satisfaction.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Columbia, MO


  7. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $47,072
    Salt Lake City offers a rewarding career in water management. The city's growing population and diverse landscape create unique challenges. Companies like Salt Lake City Water Services are known for their strong work ethic and community involvement.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Salt Lake City, UT

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

Golden State Water Company offers one of the highest salaries for Water Operator jobs, with an average of $58,767. This company provides a competitive pay package and valuable benefits. Job seekers can expect a rewarding career with good opportunities for advancement. City of Columbia, MO also pays well, with an average salary of $51,696 for Water Operators. This city offers a stable work environment and a chance to serve the community. It is a good place for those looking for a fulfilling career.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Water Operator jobs, highlighting Golden State Water Company with the highest at $58,767 and Aerotek with the lowest at $35,353.
  1. Golden State Water Company
    Average Salary: $58,767
    Golden State Water Company offers rewarding Water Operator jobs. They operate in California, providing clean water to communities. Their roles focus on maintaining water treatment systems and ensuring water quality.


  2. City of Columbia, MO
    Average Salary: $51,696
    The City of Columbia, MO, provides Water Operator jobs with a focus on public service. The city operates in Columbia, Missouri, and offers roles that involve water treatment and distribution. Employees work to ensure safe drinking water for residents.


  3. Adient One LLC.
    Average Salary: $50,057
    Adient One LLC. offers Water Operator jobs with a focus on industrial water management. They operate in various locations, providing roles that involve managing water systems for manufacturing processes. Employees ensure efficient water use and quality.


  4. Town of Essex
    Average Salary: $49,798
    The Town of Essex offers Water Operator jobs with a focus on community water management. They operate in Essex, Vermont, and provide roles that involve maintaining water treatment facilities. Employees ensure the town’s water supply is safe and reliable.


  5. Inframark
    Average Salary: $46,009
    Inframark offers Water Operator jobs with a focus on facility management. They operate in multiple locations, providing roles that involve managing water systems in commercial buildings. Employees ensure water systems run efficiently and safely.


  6. HKA Enterprises
    Average Salary: $44,280
    HKA Enterprises offers Water Operator jobs with a focus on environmental consulting. They operate in various locations, providing roles that involve water quality management. Employees work on projects to improve water systems and ensure compliance with regulations.


  7. Aerotek
    Average Salary: $35,353
    Aerotek offers Water Operator jobs with a focus on temporary staffing. They operate in multiple locations, providing roles that involve water treatment and distribution. Employees work on short-term projects to support water systems in various industries.

How to earn more as a Water Operator?

A Water Operator plays a crucial role in ensuring communities have access to clean water. This job can be rewarding, but it also offers opportunities to increase your earnings. By focusing on certain key areas, you can enhance your skills and potentially earn more. Here are some factors that can help you earn more as a Water Operator.

First, gaining more certifications can lead to higher pay. Certifications in areas like wastewater treatment or water quality management can make you more valuable. Employers often pay more for these specialized skills. Second, taking on more responsibilities can also increase your earnings. If you show leadership and take on supervisory roles, you may earn a higher salary. Third, working in different environments can lead to better pay. Operators who work in larger cities or industrial settings often earn more than those in smaller towns. Fourth, gaining experience in multiple areas of water operations can make you more versatile. This can lead to higher-paying positions. Finally, continuing your education can open up more opportunities. Advanced degrees or courses in environmental science or engineering can lead to higher-paying jobs.

By focusing on these areas, Water Operators can increase their earning potential. Certifications, responsibilities, and experience all play a role in how much you can earn. Keep learning and growing in your career to see your salary rise.

Currently 111 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
111 Job Openings