Position
Salary

How much does a Water Operator make?

The average salary for a Water Operator is $57,291 per year in the US.

Water operators play a vital role in ensuring clean and safe water for communities. Their salaries reflect the importance of their work. The average yearly salary for water operators stands at $57,291. This provides a stable income for those in this field.

Water operators earn different salaries based on experience and location. The data shows a range from about $33,250 for those just starting out to over $96,000 for the most experienced professionals. Most earn between $50,576 and $67,903 per year. This wide range means there are many opportunities for growth and higher earnings.

View Water Operator jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Water Operator?

Job seekers looking for Water Operator positions can find some of the highest paying cities in Fort Collins, CO, and Phoenix, AZ. Fort Collins offers an average salary of $71,286, while Phoenix provides $65,844 annually. These cities provide competitive salaries for professionals in this field. Additionally, Tucson, AZ, Salt Lake City, UT, and Columbia, MO, offer average salaries ranging from $50,909 to $56,756. While not the highest, these salaries still provide a strong earning potential for Water Operators. Exploring these cities may lead to lucrative career opportunities.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Water Operator jobs, highlighting Fort Collins, CO with the highest at $71,286 and Columbia, MO with the lowest at $50,909.
  1. Fort Collins, CO
    Average Salary: $71,286
    In Fort Collins, you can find rewarding work in water management. Companies like the City of Fort Collins Water Utilities offer stable jobs with growth opportunities. The area's commitment to environmental sustainability makes this role impactful.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Fort Collins, CO


  2. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $65,844
    Phoenix offers a vibrant job market for water professionals. Working here, you'll collaborate with major employers such as the City of Phoenix Water Services Department. The city's need for efficient water resource management provides plenty of career advancement.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  3. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $56,756
    Tucson provides an excellent environment for water operators. You can join the Tucson Water team, which is dedicated to providing reliable services. This city’s focus on conservation efforts ensures that your work has a significant impact.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ


  4. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $51,440
    Salt Lake City has many opportunities for those in water management. Companies like the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities need skilled operators. The city's commitment to clean water makes this role both vital and rewarding.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Salt Lake City, UT


  5. Columbia, MO
    Average Salary: $50,909
    Columbia offers a supportive community for water professionals. Here, you can work with the City Utilities of Columbia. The city values sustainable practices, providing a fulfilling work experience.
    Find Water Operator jobs in Columbia, MO

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

Kleinfelder offers the highest average salary for Water Operator jobs at around $66,073. NW Natural follows closely with an average salary of about $64,185. Both companies value skilled water operators and provide competitive pay. Golden State Water Company also offers a good salary, around $59,146, making it another strong choice for those in this field. Public entities like the City of Flagstaff and the City of Temple, TX, offer stable jobs with salaries of about $58,287 and $54,148 respectively. These positions can offer job security and benefits. HKA Enterprises provides a lower average salary of around $44,514 but may offer opportunities for growth and development in the water industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Water Operator jobs, highlighting Kleinfelder with the highest at $66,073 and HKA Enterprises with the lowest at $44,514.
  1. Kleinfelder
    Average Salary: $66,073
    Kleinfelder offers rewarding Water Operator positions. This company works on projects across the U.S., including major cities like San Francisco and Portland. Kleinfelder values skilled operators who can manage water treatment processes efficiently.


  2. NW Natural
    Average Salary: $64,185
    NW Natural provides competitive salaries for Water Operators. The company operates in Oregon and Washington, delivering natural gas and water services. They seek dedicated operators for their water treatment facilities.


  3. Golden State Water Company
    Average Salary: $59,146
    Golden State Water Company offers Water Operator jobs with a focus on water management in California. They operate in various locations, including Los Angeles and San Diego. Employees enjoy a stable environment and good benefits.


  4. City of Flagstaff
    Average Salary: $58,287
    The City of Flagstaff provides Water Operator positions in Arizona. They manage water systems in Flagstaff and surrounding areas. Operators work to ensure the community has clean and safe water.


  5. City of Temple, TX
    Average Salary: $54,148
    The City of Temple offers Water Operator jobs in central Texas. They serve Temple and nearby communities. Employees are part of a team dedicated to maintaining water quality and infrastructure.


  6. HKA Enterprises
    Average Salary: $44,514
    HKA Enterprises offers Water Operator roles with a focus on water resource management. They operate in various states, including Florida and Colorado. The company seeks operators who can handle diverse water challenges.

How to earn more as a Water Operator?

Becoming a Water Operator offers a stable career path with the potential to earn more over time. Aspiring Water Operators can increase their earnings by focusing on several key factors. These factors require dedication and a willingness to take on more responsibilities. By mastering these elements, Water Operators can improve their job prospects and salary.

Below are five important factors to consider:

  1. Education and Certification: Start with a high school diploma. Pursue further education in water treatment or related fields. Gain certifications from recognized bodies. These steps increase your value to employers.
  2. Experience: Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions. Work your way up to more advanced roles. Experience makes you more valuable and eligible for higher pay.
  3. Technical Skills: Learn to operate and maintain water treatment systems. Develop skills in water chemistry and quality control. Mastery of these skills can lead to promotions and higher pay.
  4. Continuous Learning: Stay updated with new technologies and methods. Attend workshops and training programs. Continuous learning shows dedication and opens up higher-paying opportunities.
  5. Leadership and Management: Take on leadership roles or management positions. Oversee projects and manage teams. Leadership roles often come with higher salaries.

Currently 127 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
Overview
Water Operator
127 Job Openings