Position
Salary

How much does a Water Treatment Plant Operator make?

The average salary for a Water Treatment Plant Operator is $56,786 per year in the US.

A Water Treatment Plant Operator plays a vital role in making sure communities have clean water. This job pays well, with many operators earning a solid salary each year. On average, a Water Treatment Plant Operator makes about $56,786. This number can change based on experience and location.

Some operators start with lower salaries and can earn more as they gain experience. The top earners in this field can make over $99,000 annually. Most positions offer good benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans. Experience and certifications can help increase earning potential. These roles often have opportunities for growth and advancement.

For those looking into this career, knowing the average salary can help set realistic expectations. With the right training and dedication, Water Treatment Plant Operators can enjoy a rewarding career with good pay and job stability.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Water Treatment Plant Operator?

Denver, CO, offers the highest salaries for Water Treatment Plant Operators, with an average of $86,628. Job seekers can expect strong earning potential in this vibrant city. Close behind, Austin, TX, provides competitive wages, making it another great option for those in the field. Minneapolis, MN, and Baltimore, MD, also rank well, offering average salaries above $60,000. These cities provide stable opportunities with attractive compensation packages. Portland, OR, Phoenix, AZ, and Midland, TX, though not the highest payers, still offer solid earnings in the mid to high $50,000 range, making them viable choices for career growth.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs, highlighting Denver, CO with the highest at $86,628 and Midland, TX with the lowest at $45,759.
  1. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $86,628
    In Denver, working as a water treatment operator means ensuring safe and clean water for the community. Denver Water oversees many plants, offering a dynamic and stable job. The variety of water sources and treatments presents unique challenges.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Denver, CO


  2. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $63,623
    Austin offers a growing opportunity to manage water treatment plants. The city's focus on sustainability and technology means operators work with advanced systems. Austin Energy, the main utility, provides a reliable work environment.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Austin, TX


  3. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $61,896
    Minneapolis has a strong focus on water quality and environmental protection. Here, operators handle large-scale water systems. The city's commitment to clean water makes it a rewarding place to work. Minneapolis Water works to meet high standards.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  4. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $61,892
    Baltimore's water treatment facilities serve a large population. Operators in this city play a vital role in maintaining water quality. The city’s historical infrastructure offers interesting challenges and learning opportunities.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Baltimore, MD


  5. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $58,664
    In Portland, operators enjoy working in a city known for its environmental focus. The city's water system uses innovative technologies. Portland Water Bureau provides a collaborative work environment with a strong community spirit.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Portland, OR


  6. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $58,075
    Phoenix offers a chance to work in a city with diverse water needs. Operators face unique challenges due to the arid climate. Salt River Project provides numerous opportunities for career growth and learning.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  7. Midland, TX
    Average Salary: $45,759
    Midland has a smaller, tight-knit community where water treatment operators make a significant impact. The city values clean water highly. Operators here play a crucial role in ensuring water safety and reliability.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Midland, TX

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

GARRATT-CALLAHAN leads as a top employer for Water Treatment Plant Operators, offering an average salary of $67,727. RPG LLC and Woodard & Curran also provide competitive salaries, ensuring job seekers can earn up to $62,947 and $59,103 respectively. Local government entities like the City of Frederick and Fresh Water Systems, along with staffing firms like Express Employment Professionals, offer solid salary ranges for experienced operators.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs, highlighting Garratt-Callahan with the highest at $67,727 and Express Employment Professionals with the lowest at $47,857.
  1. Garratt-Callahan
    Average Salary: $67,727
    Garratt-Callahan is a leading provider of water treatment solutions. They offer opportunities for Water Treatment Plant Operators in various locations across the U.S. Employees benefit from competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits.


  2. RPG LLC
    Average Salary: $62,947
    RPG LLC offers a variety of roles for Water Treatment Plant Operators, focusing on innovative water treatment technologies. Positions are available in different states, with a commitment to employee development and safety.


  3. Woodard & Curran
    Average Salary: $59,103
    Woodard & Curran provides specialized services in water treatment and management. They have Water Treatment Plant Operator roles in multiple regions. The company values teamwork and continuous learning.


  4. City of Frederick
    Average Salary: $50,958
    The City of Frederick employs skilled Water Treatment Plant Operators to manage public water systems. Opportunities are available locally, with a focus on community service and professional growth.


  5. Fresh Water Systems
    Average Salary: $49,000
    Fresh Water Systems offers Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs with a commitment to clean water solutions. Positions are available in various locations, emphasizing sustainability and operational excellence.


  6. Express Employment Professionals
    Average Salary: $47,857
    Express Employment Professionals connects job seekers with Water Treatment Plant Operator roles in multiple regions. They focus on quick placements and provide support to ensure job satisfaction and career advancement.

How to earn more as a Water Treatment Plant Operator?

Becoming a Water Treatment Plant Operator opens up opportunities for growth and increased earnings. To achieve higher earnings, focus on gaining relevant experience and qualifications. Start by working in smaller facilities to understand the basics, then advance to larger plants where you can manage more complex systems. Certifications and advanced training can also enhance your skills and open doors to higher-paying positions.

To boost earnings, consider the following steps:

  1. Get certified in advanced water treatment processes.
  2. Seek roles in larger, more complex water treatment facilities.
  3. Pursue supervisory or management roles within the plant.
  4. Take on additional responsibilities to demonstrate leadership.
  5. Invest in continuing education to stay updated with industry trends.

Currently 83 Water Treatment Plant Operator job openings, nationwide.

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

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