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Salary

How much does a Water Treatment Plant Operator make?

The average salary for a Water Treatment Plant Operator is $56,837 per year in the US.

A Water Treatment Plant Operator plays a key role in ensuring clean and safe water for communities. This job involves monitoring and controlling the water treatment process. The average yearly salary for this position is around $56,837. This figure 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 about $34,000 per year. The highest 10% earn over $100,000 annually. Most operators fall somewhere in the middle, with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $70,000. This range shows that with experience and additional skills, there is potential for growth in this field. Operators who work in larger cities or more complex treatment plants often earn higher salaries.

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

Denver, CO, offers the highest average salary for Water Treatment Plant Operators at $83,363. This makes it a prime location for those seeking top compensation. Portland, OR, and Austin, TX, follow closely, with average salaries of $64,015 and $62,850, respectively. These cities provide excellent opportunities for professionals in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs, highlighting Denver, CO with the highest at $83,363 and Midland, TX with the lowest at $45,201.
  1. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $83,363
    In Denver, you can find rewarding work with the Denver Water department. This role involves managing water treatment and distribution systems. The city's commitment to sustainability makes it a great place to work.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Denver, CO


  2. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $64,015
    Portland offers a clean and green environment for water treatment professionals. Working with Portland Water Bureau, you will help ensure clean water for the city. The focus on environmental stewardship is a key part of this job.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Portland, OR


  3. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $62,850
    Austin is known for its fast growth and innovation. As a water treatment operator, you will work with Austin Water to manage the city's water supply. The city's emphasis on technology makes this a dynamic place to work.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Austin, TX


  4. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $62,792
    In Baltimore, you will work with the Baltimore Water department to maintain the city's water systems. This role is crucial for ensuring public health. The city's rich history adds a unique backdrop to your work.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Baltimore, MD


  5. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $61,629
    Minneapolis offers a stable and supportive environment for water treatment operators. Working with the city's water department, you will help keep the water supply safe and clean. The city's focus on quality of life makes this a rewarding job.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  6. Indianapolis, IN
    Average Salary: $61,183
    Indianapolis provides a growing market for water treatment professionals. Working with the city's water utility, you will help manage the water supply. The city's commitment to infrastructure makes this a good place to build a career.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Indianapolis, IN


  7. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $58,577
    Phoenix offers a sunny and warm climate for water treatment operators. Working with the Salt River Project, you will manage water resources in a growing city. The city's focus on sustainability is a key part of this job.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  8. Orlando, FL
    Average Salary: $51,854
    In Orlando, you will work with the city's water department to ensure clean water for residents. This role is important for maintaining public health. The city's focus on tourism adds a unique aspect to your work.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Orlando, FL


  9. Wilmington, NC
    Average Salary: $49,479
    Wilmington offers a coastal environment for water treatment professionals. Working with the city's water department, you will help manage water resources. The city's focus on growth makes this a dynamic place to work.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Wilmington, NC


  10. Midland, TX
    Average Salary: $45,201
    Midland provides a stable and growing market for water treatment operators. Working with the city's water utility, you will help manage the water supply. The city's focus on energy and industry makes this a unique place to work.
    Find Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs in Midland, TX

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

GARRATT-CALLAHAN offers the highest average salary for Water Treatment Plant Operators, making it a top choice. RPG LLC and Woodard & Curran also provide competitive pay, with salaries above $60,000. American Water and City of Frederick offer solid compensation, while Fresh Water Systems and Express Employment Professionals provide good opportunities for those entering the field.
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 $46,545.
  1. GARRATT-CALLAHAN
    Average Salary: $67,727
    GARRATT-CALLAHAN offers rewarding Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs. They operate in various locations, including the Midwest and East Coast. Employees enjoy competitive benefits and opportunities for career growth.


  2. RPG LLC
    Average Salary: $62,947
    RPG LLC provides Water Treatment Plant Operator positions with a strong focus on safety and innovation. They have offices across the United States, offering diverse work environments and professional development.


  3. Woodard & Curran
    Average Salary: $60,520
    Woodard & Curran is known for its comprehensive Water Treatment Plant Operator roles. They operate in multiple states and emphasize teamwork and environmental stewardship. Employees benefit from a supportive work culture.


  4. American Water
    Average Salary: $60,363
    American Water offers Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs with a focus on sustainability. They have a nationwide presence, providing various locations for employees to work. The company values employee well-being and offers growth opportunities.


  5. City of Frederick
    Average Salary: $51,078
    The City of Frederick provides Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs with a strong community focus. They operate in Frederick, Maryland, offering a supportive work environment. Employees enjoy a good work-life balance and community engagement.


  6. Fresh Water Systems
    Average Salary: $49,000
    Fresh Water Systems offers Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs with a commitment to innovation. They operate in several states, providing diverse work experiences. The company values employee development and offers competitive benefits.


  7. Express Employment Professionals
    Average Salary: $46,545
    Express Employment Professionals provides Water Treatment Plant Operator jobs with a focus on placement and support. They have locations across the country, offering various opportunities for job seekers. The company emphasizes career advancement and employee satisfaction.

How to earn more as a Water Treatment Plant Operator?

A Water Treatment Plant Operator can increase their earnings through various avenues. Gaining experience and expertise in the field is a key factor. As operators gain more experience, they often qualify for higher-paying positions. Certifications can also boost earnings. Many employers prefer or require operators to have specific certifications, such as the Water Treatment Plant Operator Certification. Continuing education helps operators stay current with industry trends and technologies, making them more valuable to employers.

Operators can also earn more by taking on additional responsibilities. This might include overseeing a team, managing a larger plant, or handling complex treatment processes. Seeking out opportunities for advancement within a company can lead to higher pay. Networking with other professionals in the industry can open doors to better-paying jobs. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can provide valuable connections and job leads. Finally, relocating to areas with higher demand for water treatment operators can result in better salary offers.

Here are some ways to increase earnings as a Water Treatment Plant Operator:

  1. Gain more experience and expertise in the field.
  2. Obtain relevant certifications and continue education.
  3. Take on additional responsibilities and seek advancement opportunities.
  4. Network with other professionals and attend industry events.
  5. Relocate to areas with higher demand for operators.

Currently 104 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
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Water Treatment Plant Operator
104 Job Openings