▼22%
$20.76
Avg. Base Hourly Rate (USD)
/ hour
Avg. Base Hourly Rate (USD)
10%
$14.93
MEDIAN
$20.76
90%
$30.74
The average hourly pay for a Water Plant Operator is $20.76 in 2025
Hourly Rate
$15 - $31
Bonus
$152 - $5k
Total Pay
$31k - $68k
Is Average Water Plant Operator Hourly Pay your job title? Find out what you should be paid
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Water Plant Operators?
What Do Water Plant Operators Do?
Water Plant Operator Tasks
- Maintain water testing and treatment plant equipment.
- Maintains documentation and records of plant operations and data.
- Collect, test, and analyze water samples.
- Operate wells and chemical feed systems, and oversee store tank levels to ensure compliance with regulations.
Find your market worth – how it works:
How do Water Plant Operators Rate Their Jobs?
Based on 39 responses, the job of Water Plant Operator has received a job satisfaction rating of 3.61 out of 5. On average, Water Plant Operators are highly satisfied with their job.
Common Health Benefits for a Water Plant Operator
Medical
82%
Dental
65%
Vision
55%
None
18%
Gender Breakdown for Water Plant Operators
Male
96.1%
Female
3.9%
This data is based on 76 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Water Plant Operators
What is the highest pay for Water Plant Operators?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Water Plant Operator is $30.74 / hour
What is the lowest pay for Water Plant Operators?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Water Plant Operator is $14.93 / hour
How can Water Plant Operators increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Water Plant Operator is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Water Plant Operator that oversees more junior Water Plant Operators, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.