Average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary in Texas
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Texas earn an average annual salary of $50,220. This figure is notably below the national average of $60,280, suggesting that regional economic factors and demand dynamics play a significant role in compensation within the state. The specific pay rates are influenced by the state's unique industrial landscape and the prevailing wage scales for essential infrastructure roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $50,220 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 21.6% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $65,660.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 10,340 individuals, the market for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Texas is substantial. The Location Quotient of 0.91 indicates that the concentration of these jobs in Texas is nearly on par with the national average, suggesting a stable and consistent demand for these essential professionals. This robust workforce size points to a healthy job market with ongoing opportunities for skilled operators.
Salary Overview
The average Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Texas earns-16.7%below the national average.
$24.1
$966
$4,185
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Texas have experienced gradual growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by increasing infrastructure needs, evolving regulatory standards, and the general rise in the cost of living, ensuring that compensation keeps pace with economic shifts.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Salary Distribution in Texas
Experience significantly impacts the earning potential for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while senior operators with extensive knowledge and specialized certifications can earn considerably more. The widening salary gap between junior and senior roles, often seen across different pay percentiles, clearly signifies a strong career progression path with substantial financial rewards for accumulated expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $35,660 | $17.1 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $37,665 | $18.1 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $48,110 | $23.1 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $62,775 | $30.2 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $65,660 | $31.6 |
Detailed Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$50,220
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$54,000
Adjusted for COL (93)
The nominal average annual salary of $50,220 in Texas for this role should be viewed in conjunction with the local Cost of Living Index of 93. Since this index is below the national average of 100, the purchasing power of the Texas salary is relatively stronger than the raw number might suggest. This means that the $50,220 earned can go further in Texas compared to areas with a higher cost of living, making the compensation more favorable in real terms.
Job Market Context
10,340
Total Jobs
0.747
Per 1K Jobs
0.91
Location Quotient
Texas has 0.91x the national average concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.91 for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Texas signifies that the employment concentration for this occupation is slightly below the national average. This suggests that while the job market is present and functional, it may be marginally less saturated than in other regions, potentially offering a competitive environment for skilled professionals seeking employment. The market is neither overly abundant nor exceptionally scarce, indicating a balanced demand.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Comparing salaries near Texas
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators make in Texas?
The median annual salary for a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Texas is $50,220. This typically ranges from $35,660 for entry-level positions to $65,660 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Texas is 16.7% lower than the national median of $60,280.
Is Texas a lucrative place for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operatorss?
Yes, with caveats.While the average salary of $50,220 is below the national average, the lower cost of living in Texas enhances the real value of this income. The stable job market also provides consistent opportunities for employment.
Is Texas a good place to live for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators?
With a Cost of Living Index of 93 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Texas?
Some top paying nearby cities include Killeen-Temple, TX ($46,180) and Waco, TX.
How does the Texas salary compare to the national average?
The average annual salary for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in Texas is $50,220, which is $10,060 less than the national average of $60,280.
What is the concentration of Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators jobs in Texas?
Texas has a Location Quotient of 0.91 for this role, meaning the concentration of jobs is slightly below the national average.
How does the cost of living affect the salary in Texas?
With a Cost of Living Index of 93 (100 being the national average), the $50,220 salary in Texas offers better purchasing power than it would in a higher cost-of-living area.
What is the total workforce size for this role in Texas?
There are approximately 10,340 Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators employed in Texas.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 10,340 employees in the Texas area with a job density of 0.747 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Texas