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Production & Manufacturing · Kansas

How to Become a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Kansas

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Kansas earn a median salary of $47,950/year, which is 18% below the national average. Kansas has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators takes home approximately $1,796/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$48K
Median salary in Kansas
-18%
vs. national average
4.3%
State income tax
1,430
Employed in Kansas

What a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators can afford in Kansas

Gross annual salary$47,950
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.3% state tax)$3,208/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kansas)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home44% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$47,950/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,796/mo

Becoming a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Kansas

1

Meet education requirements

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators positions in Kansas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Kansas. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators positions in Kansas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Kansas licensure or certification

Kansas may require specific licensing or professional certification for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Kansas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Kansas

Kansas employs 1,430 water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators. The highest concentrations are in Lawrence and Manhattan.

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary by metro area in Kansas

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Lawrence$52K$24.95/hr70
Manhattan$46K$22.14/hr70
Wichita$44K$20.95/hr230
Topeka$43K$20.51/hr110

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary range in Kansas

10th percentile (entry)
$34K
25th percentile
$40K
Median (50th)
$48K
75th percentile
$55K
90th percentile (senior)
$65K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators make in Kansas?

The median water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators salary in Kansas is $47,950 per year ($23.06/hr). This is 18% below the national median of $58,260. Salaries range from $33,840 to $64,750.

What are the requirements to become a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Kansas?

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators positions in Kansas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Kansas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Kansas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators afford to live in Kansas?

At the median salary of $47,950, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Kansas would take home approximately $3,208/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Kansas?

The highest paying metro areas for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Kansas are Lawrence ($51,890), Manhattan ($46,050), Wichita ($43,570). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Kansas have state income tax for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators?

Yes, Kansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $47,950 salary, this means roughly $2,076/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.