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Production & Manufacturing · New Jersey

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

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in New Jersey earn a median salary of $75,200/year, which is 29% above the national average. New Jersey has a state income tax of ~3.5%. After taxes and rent, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators takes home approximately $3,474/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$75K
Median salary in New Jersey
+29%
vs. national average
3.5%
State income tax
2,040
Employed in New Jersey

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

Gross annual salary$75,200
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.5% state tax)$4,886/mo
Median 2BR rent (New Jersey)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home28.9% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$75,200/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,474/mo

Becoming a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in New Jersey

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain New Jersey licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in New Jersey

New Jersey employs 2,040 water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators. The highest concentrations are in Vineland and Atlantic City-Hammonton.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Vineland$75K$36.03/hr80
Atlantic City-Hammonton$66K$31.6/hr140
Trenton-Princeton$64K$30.85/hr140

Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary range in New Jersey

10th percentile (entry)
$49K
25th percentile
$62K
Median (50th)
$75K
75th percentile
$86K
90th percentile (senior)
$98K
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Full water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators salary breakdown in New Jersey
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Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

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

The median water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators salary in New Jersey is $75,200 per year ($36.15/hr). This is 29% above the national median of $58,260. Salaries range from $49,440 to $97,820.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $75,200, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in New Jersey would take home approximately $4,886/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in New Jersey are Vineland ($74,940), Atlantic City-Hammonton ($65,740), Trenton-Princeton ($64,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, New Jersey has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.5%. On a $75,200 salary, this means roughly $2,664/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.