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Production & Manufacturing · Montana

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

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Montana earn a median salary of $58,040/year, which is 3% below the national average. Montana has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators takes home approximately $1,840/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$58K
Median salary in Montana
-3%
vs. national average
4.0%
State income tax
690
Employed in Montana

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

Gross annual salary$58,040
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.0% state tax)$3,863/mo
Median 2BR rent (Montana)-$2,023/mo
Rent as % of take-home52.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$58,040/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,840/mo

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

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Montana licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Montana

Montana employs 690 water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators. The highest concentrations are in Bozeman and Missoula.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Bozeman$76K$36.73/hr70
Missoula$67K$31.99/hr60
Billings$61K$29.1/hr80
Helena$57K$27.6/hr60
Great Falls$57K$27.36/hr30

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

10th percentile (entry)
$37K
25th percentile
$50K
Median (50th)
$58K
75th percentile
$69K
90th percentile (senior)
$81K
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Frequently asked questions

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

The median water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators salary in Montana is $58,040 per year ($27.9/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $60,020. Salaries range from $37,320 to $81,420.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $58,040, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Montana would take home approximately $3,863/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $2,023/month, that's 52.4% 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 Montana?

The highest paying metro areas for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Montana are Bozeman ($76,390), Missoula ($66,550), Billings ($60,530). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Montana has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $58,040 salary, this means roughly $2,317/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.