How much does a Water Treatment Plant Operator make?
A Water Treatment Plant Operator plays a key role in ensuring clean and safe water for communities. This job involves monitoring and controlling water treatment processes. The average yearly salary for a Water Treatment Plant Operator is $57,232. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the treatment plant.
The salary range for Water Treatment Plant Operators can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn around $34,000 per year. The highest 10% earn over $100,000 annually. Most operators fall between $46,000 and $76,000. This range shows that with experience and skill, there is potential for growth in this field. Operators in larger cities or more advanced treatment facilities often earn more. Those in smaller towns or with less experience may start at the lower end of the scale.
What are the highest paying cities for a Water Treatment Plant Operator?
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $76,933
In Denver, you can find rewarding work with the Denver Water department. This role involves managing water treatment processes to ensure clean and safe water for the community. Denver Water is a prominent employer in this field.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $63,259
Portland offers a chance to work with the Portland Water Bureau. Here, you will play a key role in maintaining the city's water supply. The bureau is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $63,125
Baltimore provides opportunities with the Baltimore Water department. This role focuses on ensuring the city's water is treated and delivered safely. The department is dedicated to improving water quality and infrastructure.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $62,850
In Austin, you can work with the Austin Water Utility. This position involves overseeing water treatment and distribution. The utility is known for its innovative approach to water management.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $60,844
Minneapolis offers roles with the Metropolitan Council. This job involves managing water treatment facilities to provide clean water. The council is a major employer in the region's water sector.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $60,235
Phoenix provides opportunities with the Salt River Project. This role focuses on water treatment and distribution. The project is a leading provider of water and power in the region.
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Indianapolis, IN
Average Salary: $58,572
In Indianapolis, you can work with the Indianapolis Water Company. This role involves ensuring the city's water is treated and delivered safely. The company is committed to providing high-quality water services.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $50,788
Orlando offers roles with the City of Orlando Utilities Commission. This job involves managing water treatment processes. The commission is dedicated to maintaining clean and safe water for the community.
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Wilmington, NC
Average Salary: $49,554
Wilmington provides opportunities with the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority. This role focuses on water treatment and distribution. The authority is known for its commitment to water quality and infrastructure.
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Abilene, TX
Average Salary: $48,865
In Abilene, you can work with the City of Abilene Water Utilities. This position involves overseeing water treatment facilities. The utilities are dedicated to providing safe and clean water to the community.
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What are the best companies a Water Treatment Plant Operator can work for?
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RPG LLC
Average Salary: $62,947
RPG LLC offers competitive salaries for Water Treatment Plant Operators. They operate in various locations across the country, providing opportunities for career growth and development. RPG LLC emphasizes safety and environmental stewardship in their operations.
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American Water
Average Salary: $58,892
American Water is a leading provider of water and wastewater services. They offer attractive salaries for Water Treatment Plant Operators. American Water operates in multiple states, giving employees a chance to work in different regions. They focus on innovation and sustainability in their treatment processes.
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City of Frederick
Average Salary: $50,888
The City of Frederick provides stable employment for Water Treatment Plant Operators. They offer a good salary, along with benefits and opportunities for professional development. The City of Frederick operates in Frederick, Maryland, and is committed to maintaining high water quality standards for its residents.
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Fresh Water Systems
Average Salary: $49,000
Fresh Water Systems specializes in water treatment solutions. They offer a solid salary for Water Treatment Plant Operators. The company operates in several states, providing diverse work experiences. Fresh Water Systems is dedicated to delivering efficient and effective water treatment services.
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Express Employment Professionals
Average Salary: $46,545
Express Employment Professionals connects job seekers with employers in various industries, including water treatment. They offer a competitive salary for Water Treatment Plant Operators. This staffing agency operates in multiple locations, helping candidates find suitable positions. They focus on matching skills with job opportunities.
How to earn more as a Water Treatment Plant Operator?
A Water Treatment Plant Operator can increase their earnings through various strategies. Gaining experience and expertise in the field is a key factor. As operators gain more experience, they often qualify for higher-paying positions. Certifications and advanced training can also lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries. Networking with other professionals in the industry can open doors to higher-paying jobs and promotions.
Another way to earn more is by seeking positions in larger cities or areas with higher living costs. These areas often offer higher wages to attract qualified candidates. Operators can also increase their earnings by taking on additional responsibilities, such as supervising junior operators or managing a team. Finally, staying updated with the latest technologies and methods in water treatment can make an operator more valuable to employers, leading to higher pay.
Here are some factors to increase earnings:
- Gain experience and expertise
- Obtain certifications and advanced training
- Network with industry professionals
- Seek positions in higher-paying areas
- Take on additional responsibilities
