As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Wastewater Plant Manager in the United States is $108,106 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $52.
However, a Wastewater Plant Manager's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Wastewater Plant Manager's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Wastewater Plant Manager's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Wastewater Plant Manager | $102,567 |
| Intermediate Level Wastewater Plant Manager | $103,143 |
| Senior Level Wastewater Plant Manager | $105,062 |
| Specialist Level Wastewater Plant Manager | $107,364 |
| Expert Level Wastewater Plant Manager | $109,887 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Wastewater Plant Managers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
For Wastewater Plant Manager roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 70% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Biotechnology and Energy & Utilities sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 30% above the average. In contrast, Wastewater Plant Manager positions in Transportation or Hospitality & Leisure typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Wastewater Plant Manager as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biotechnology | $140,538 | $68.0 | 30% |
| Energy & Utilities | $135,132 | $65.0 | 25% |
| Aerospace & Defense | $129,727 | $62.0 | 20% |
| MFG Durable | $124,322 | $60.0 | 15% |
| Construction | $118,917 | $57.0 | 10% |
Understanding how a Wastewater Plant Manager's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Salaries for a Wastewater Plant Manager can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $102,267 in 2023 to around $102,228 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Wastewater Plant Manager salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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| 2023 | $102,267 |
| 2024 | $102,821 |
| 2025 | $102,228 |
| 2026 |
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| 2027 |
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The Biotechnology industry offers the highest average compensation for Wastewater Plant Manager roles, with salaries approximately 30% above the market median.
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