Wastewater Operator Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Wastewater operators manage water treatment facilities and are eligible for H-1B visa and other work visa sponsorship when the role requires specialized technical knowledge. Many positions qualify as specialty occupations, particularly those involving advanced treatment processes, regulatory compliance, or supervisory responsibilities at municipal or industrial facilities. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsRequisition ID: 110563
Share Our Purpose. Be Yourself. Feel Valued.
People are the heart of our business. As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career. Our benefits packages focus on key areas such as health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.
We are Beautifully Different. We strongly believe having diversity across our company makes us more successful and helps us provide essential services to our customers. We are stronger because we embrace different ideas, viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds. American Water is the best choice for your next role! Click here for more information on our inclusion, diversity, and equity journey.
About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.
For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.
Job Title: Wastewater Treatment Operator
Posting Start Date: 11/10/26
Primary Role
Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of pump stations, regulators, and interceptors. Maintains flow meters and collects CSO data for daily and monthly reporting.
-
LI-Onsite
-
LI-MR23
Key Accountabilities
- Operates, maintains, and performs routine duties of a wide variety of specialized equipment in a plant/treatment facility which includes pumps, motors, and chemical feed systems, as well as biological wastewater treatment processes: control equipment and monitoring equipment.
- Performs daily duties to maintain permit compliance and optimization of treatment including laboratory analysis, treatment changes and sample collection. Makes necessary adjustments to equipment, processes, and chemical feeds, as test results may indicate to optimize treatment. Maintains records of operations as well as completing reports as assigned.
- Inspects all mechanical equipment for proper operation and performs normal lubrication, adjustment, seal, packing, minor maintenance, and minor repairs, as necessary both in the plant and collections system and maintain records of this work.
- Performs all necessary work within the collection system including but not limited to new line inspection and as built, 811-mark outs, videoing sewer main and laterals, manhole inspections, customer issues, clearing sewer right of ways. Must also be able to jet and rod sewage lines as needed.
- Maintain housekeeping at all facilities as well as lawn care and snow removal, at the standard of PAWC. Engages in cleaning structure chambers, freeing plugged gates and laterals, and correcting back water gate malfunctions, to prevent or minimize combined sewer overflows (CSOs).
Additional Key Accountabilities
- Documents all records of flow data & metering equipment.
- Cleans inside and outside of structures and maintains lawn and rights-of-way. Engages in flow studies and measurements.
- Records unusual conditions of sewage flow or odors. Reports any malfunctions of bypasses, control gates or flap gates to Supervisor.
- Lubricates control and back water gates. Performs all pump station maintenance including cleaning bar screens and removing rags/debris, sweeping/mopping of floors, painting and general pump maintenance.
- Completes and files Confined Space sheets. Inspects and reports problems from pump station equipment such as motors, pumps, valves, compressors, level control devices, generators, odor control systems.
- Records data from operating equipment such as flow meters, level control system, UPS system, gas detection system and generator.
- Checks, cleans, and maintains interceptor system to prevent and minimize CSOs. Opens sewer covers, checks for gas, uses gas monitors, blows in fresh air (as needed). Responds to customer service calls. Performs maintenance of all flowmeters & regulators.
Knowledge/Skills
- Considerable knowledge of materials, methods, and techniques commonly used in public works activities and general sewer treatment operations.
- Thorough knowledge of safety rules and safe work practices in a collection system work area.
Experience/Education
- Minimum one (1) year experience in the wastewater field preferred.
- High school diploma or GED required.
Hours/Schedule
- Full-time
- Monday-Friday, 7am-3:30pm
- Rotating call-out coverage every three (3) weeks
- On-call responsibilities
Other Requirements:
- Work overtime at any time of day or year as required by management.
- Attend training sessions and participate in updated work procedures as necessary.
- Able to carry out written and oral directions and required tasks.
- Able to relate to the general public in a professional and courteous manner.
Physical/Cognitive Requirements
- Able to lift, carry, and drag equipment and exert force up to forty (40) pounds; climb over and pull up oneself over obstacles; jump down from an elevated surface; climb through openings; jump over obstacles; crawl in confined areas; balance on uneven or narrow surfaces and use body force to gain entrance.
- Climb steps and ladders on a regular basis to perform assigned tasks.
- Work safely in an environment that includes significant noise, atmospheric conditions, and some environmental hazards that necessitate safety gear, eye protection, and occasionally a respirator.
Certifications
- Successful completion of the appropriate state certification examination through PA Department of Environmental Protection for collection system operators, currently an E-certificate.
- Valid PA driver license.
- Completion of pre-employment medical examination including drug and alcohol test.
- Good oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Some knowledge of computer operated equipment.
Competencies
Plans & Aligns
Decision Making
Communicates Effectively
Builds Networks
Action Oriented
Requisition ID: 110563
Share Our Purpose. Be Yourself. Feel Valued.
People are the heart of our business. As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career. Our benefits packages focus on key areas such as health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.
We are Beautifully Different. We strongly believe having diversity across our company makes us more successful and helps us provide essential services to our customers. We are stronger because we embrace different ideas, viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds. American Water is the best choice for your next role! Click here for more information on our inclusion, diversity, and equity journey.
About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.
For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.
Job Title: Wastewater Treatment Operator
Posting Start Date: 11/10/26
Primary Role
Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of pump stations, regulators, and interceptors. Maintains flow meters and collects CSO data for daily and monthly reporting.
-
LI-Onsite
-
LI-MR23
Key Accountabilities
- Operates, maintains, and performs routine duties of a wide variety of specialized equipment in a plant/treatment facility which includes pumps, motors, and chemical feed systems, as well as biological wastewater treatment processes: control equipment and monitoring equipment.
- Performs daily duties to maintain permit compliance and optimization of treatment including laboratory analysis, treatment changes and sample collection. Makes necessary adjustments to equipment, processes, and chemical feeds, as test results may indicate to optimize treatment. Maintains records of operations as well as completing reports as assigned.
- Inspects all mechanical equipment for proper operation and performs normal lubrication, adjustment, seal, packing, minor maintenance, and minor repairs, as necessary both in the plant and collections system and maintain records of this work.
- Performs all necessary work within the collection system including but not limited to new line inspection and as built, 811-mark outs, videoing sewer main and laterals, manhole inspections, customer issues, clearing sewer right of ways. Must also be able to jet and rod sewage lines as needed.
- Maintain housekeeping at all facilities as well as lawn care and snow removal, at the standard of PAWC. Engages in cleaning structure chambers, freeing plugged gates and laterals, and correcting back water gate malfunctions, to prevent or minimize combined sewer overflows (CSOs).
Additional Key Accountabilities
- Documents all records of flow data & metering equipment.
- Cleans inside and outside of structures and maintains lawn and rights-of-way. Engages in flow studies and measurements.
- Records unusual conditions of sewage flow or odors. Reports any malfunctions of bypasses, control gates or flap gates to Supervisor.
- Lubricates control and back water gates. Performs all pump station maintenance including cleaning bar screens and removing rags/debris, sweeping/mopping of floors, painting and general pump maintenance.
- Completes and files Confined Space sheets. Inspects and reports problems from pump station equipment such as motors, pumps, valves, compressors, level control devices, generators, odor control systems.
- Records data from operating equipment such as flow meters, level control system, UPS system, gas detection system and generator.
- Checks, cleans, and maintains interceptor system to prevent and minimize CSOs. Opens sewer covers, checks for gas, uses gas monitors, blows in fresh air (as needed). Responds to customer service calls. Performs maintenance of all flowmeters & regulators.
Knowledge/Skills
- Considerable knowledge of materials, methods, and techniques commonly used in public works activities and general sewer treatment operations.
- Thorough knowledge of safety rules and safe work practices in a collection system work area.
Experience/Education
- Minimum one (1) year experience in the wastewater field preferred.
- High school diploma or GED required.
Hours/Schedule
- Full-time
- Monday-Friday, 7am-3:30pm
- Rotating call-out coverage every three (3) weeks
- On-call responsibilities
Other Requirements:
- Work overtime at any time of day or year as required by management.
- Attend training sessions and participate in updated work procedures as necessary.
- Able to carry out written and oral directions and required tasks.
- Able to relate to the general public in a professional and courteous manner.
Physical/Cognitive Requirements
- Able to lift, carry, and drag equipment and exert force up to forty (40) pounds; climb over and pull up oneself over obstacles; jump down from an elevated surface; climb through openings; jump over obstacles; crawl in confined areas; balance on uneven or narrow surfaces and use body force to gain entrance.
- Climb steps and ladders on a regular basis to perform assigned tasks.
- Work safely in an environment that includes significant noise, atmospheric conditions, and some environmental hazards that necessitate safety gear, eye protection, and occasionally a respirator.
Certifications
- Successful completion of the appropriate state certification examination through PA Department of Environmental Protection for collection system operators, currently an E-certificate.
- Valid PA driver license.
- Completion of pre-employment medical examination including drug and alcohol test.
- Good oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Some knowledge of computer operated equipment.
Competencies
Plans & Aligns
Decision Making
Communicates Effectively
Builds Networks
Action Oriented
See all 68+ Wastewater Operator Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Wastewater Operator roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Wastewater Operator Jobs
Target roles requiring specialized knowledge
Focus on advanced wastewater operator positions that require expertise in membrane bioreactors, nutrient removal systems, or industrial pretreatment programs to strengthen specialty occupation arguments.
Highlight relevant certifications and education
Emphasize water treatment certifications, environmental engineering degrees, or chemistry backgrounds that demonstrate specialized knowledge beyond basic operational skills for stronger visa petitions.
Consider municipal and industrial employers
Large municipal water authorities and industrial facilities with complex treatment needs are more likely to sponsor visas and understand the specialty occupation requirements.
Leverage environmental compliance expertise
Positions involving NPDES permit compliance, effluent monitoring, or regulatory reporting to EPA often qualify as specialty occupations requiring specific technical education and training.
Build experience with advanced treatment technologies
Gain expertise in membrane filtration, biological nutrient removal, or industrial waste treatment systems that require specialized knowledge and support H-1B specialty occupation criteria.
Network through professional water associations
Join Water Environment Federation or similar organizations to connect with employers who understand the technical complexity of modern wastewater treatment and visa sponsorship processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do wastewater operator jobs qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Advanced wastewater operator positions can qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship when they require specialized knowledge of complex treatment processes, regulatory compliance, or supervisory responsibilities. Basic operational roles typically don't meet specialty occupation requirements, but positions involving membrane bioreactors, nutrient removal systems, or industrial pretreatment often qualify with proper documentation of technical requirements.
What degree do I need for wastewater operator visa sponsorship?
Environmental engineering, civil engineering, chemistry, or related technical degrees typically support H-1B petitions for wastewater operator roles. Some positions may accept water treatment certifications combined with relevant experience. The key is demonstrating that the specific role requires theoretical and practical application of specialized knowledge that comes from formal education in the field.
How to find Wastewater Operator jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Wastewater Operator jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international workers with sponsoring employers. Focus your search on water treatment facilities, municipal utilities, industrial manufacturing plants, and environmental services companies that commonly hire wastewater operators. These employers often sponsor H-1B, H-2B visa, or EB-3 visas for skilled operators with relevant certifications and experience in water treatment processes.
Which employers sponsor wastewater operators for work visas?
Large municipal water authorities, industrial facilities with complex treatment needs, and engineering consulting firms are most likely to sponsor wastewater operators. These employers typically have HR departments familiar with visa processes and can justify specialty occupation requirements for advanced treatment system operations, regulatory compliance roles, or supervisory positions requiring specialized technical knowledge.
How do wastewater treatment certifications help with visa applications?
Professional certifications from organizations like the Water Environment Federation demonstrate specialized knowledge and can strengthen H-1B petitions. Grade IV or V operator certifications, along with specialized endorsements for membrane systems or industrial pretreatment, help establish that the role requires expertise beyond basic operations and supports specialty occupation arguments for visa approval.
What makes a wastewater operator role qualify as a specialty occupation?
Wastewater operator positions qualify as specialty occupations when they involve complex treatment technologies, regulatory compliance responsibilities, or supervisory duties requiring specialized technical knowledge. Roles managing membrane bioreactors, biological nutrient removal systems, industrial pretreatment programs, or NPDES permit compliance typically meet H-1B requirements by demonstrating the need for formal education and specialized training.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Wastewater Operator jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.