How to Become a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Texas
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Texas earn a median salary of $48,110/year, which is 17% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators takes home approximately $1,979/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators can afford in Texas
Becoming a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Texas
Meet education requirements
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 10,340 water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators. The highest concentrations are in Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos and Waco.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $60K | $28.69/hr | 850 |
| Waco | $59K | $28.37/hr | 120 |
| Odessa | $52K | $25.14/hr | 70 |
| Corpus Christi | $52K | $25.05/hr | 140 |
| Midland | $52K | $25.04/hr | 270 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $51K | $24.67/hr | 1,960 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $51K | $24.66/hr | 1,870 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $50K | $24.2/hr | 700 |
| Tyler | $49K | $23.47/hr | 140 |
| Sherman-Denison | $49K | $23.36/hr | 100 |
| El Paso | $48K | $23.28/hr | 290 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $48K | $23.27/hr | 190 |
| College Station-Bryan | $47K | $22.7/hr | 80 |
| Victoria | $46K | $22.09/hr | 40 |
| Lubbock | $46K | $22.01/hr | 70 |
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary range in Texas
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 Texas?▼
The median water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators salary in Texas is $48,110 per year ($23.13/hr). This is 17% below the national median of $58,260. Salaries range from $35,660 to $65,660.
What are the requirements to become a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Texas?▼
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $48,110, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Texas would take home approximately $3,391/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.6% 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 Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in Texas are Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($59,670), Waco ($59,010), Odessa ($52,290). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.