Distribution System Operator Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Posting expires: June 15, 2026

Salary range: $44, 369 - $51, 313

General Description and Classification Standards:
Performs the physical connecting and disconnecting of water supply to customers; reads water meters for service account initiation and termination; installs and removes water meters; and performs related work as required. This is an experienced, skilled or technical level capable of carrying out most assignments typical of the position or specialty with limited guidance or review. This level would be considered a promotional level and attainable by any incumbents in a work group who demonstrate the necessary knowledge, ability, and performance. Could be the only position in this specialty in a work group or could be part of a general or specialized work team.

Supervision Received:
Works under very general supervision. May work independently or with other skilled or semi-skilled 
workers with responsibility for completion of assigned tasks. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
These are typical responsibilities for this position and should not be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.
Locates and/or traces service lines and stop boxes as requested by customers, plumbers, public utilities or other outside agencies. 
Locates, traces, and records location of all other utilities within the affected area of work prior to making repairs to the distribution system. 
Operates computerized/electronic leak detection and locating equipment to survey and pinpoint leaks in the water distribution system and on a contractual basis for other water utilities, plumbers, etc. 
Investigates water leaks and low-pressure problems to determine source and determines corrective action needed to remedy problem. 
Inspects various customer owned water facilities for rules and regulations compliance. 
Advises customer of necessary corrections, ensures repairs are made in a timely fashion, grants variances to regulations and terminates service for failure to comply. 
Locks meters due to delinquency and unlocks meters upon bill resolution. 
Performs various inspection and testing activities to assure new facilities can be accurately located and are leak free. 
Relocates service lines.
Changes out registers on meters.
Installs new meters; repairs large meters.
Repairs/replaces curb stops, meter couplings, and sidewalk pieces.
Investigates pressure complaints.
Responds to meter related service emergencies.
Interprets blueprints, sketches, and written or oral instructions. 
Requests locations of lines and cables of other utilities.
Documents work activities and prepares reports both manually and with a computer. Maintains and performs minor repairs of electronic equipment to ensure their proper function. 
Provides guidance and training as required to lower-level employees, interns, temporary employees, etc.
May perform other duties as assigned.

The above statements reflect the general duties, responsibilities and competencies considered necessary to perform the essential 
duties and responsibilities of the job and should not be considered as a detailed description of all the work requirements of the 
position. COA may change the specific job duties with or without prior notice based on the needs of the organization.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
This is a partial listing of necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the job successfully, it is not an exhaustive list.

Knowledge of the operation of the water distribution system and how various issues may affect customers.
Knowledge of data available for field use in various distribution record systems.
Knowledge of requirements of cross connection control, devices used, and their installations.
Knowledge of water utility rules and regulations for customers, and skill in their application. 
Skills in analytical thinking and decision making.
Skills in operating electronic leak detection and locating equipment to accurately locate leaks and underground infrastructure.
Skills in utilizing fault locating equipment to pinpoint failures. 
Ability to build and maintain good working relationships with staff members and the public.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

Minimum Qualifications:
Education and Experience - High school diploma, or equivalent. Three (3) years of work 
experience in a water distribution system.

Licensures and Certifications - Valid State of Georgia driver's license. Water Distribution Operator's Certification, or the ability to obtain within six (6) months of employment.

Preferred Requirements - Completion of Technical or Vocational course of study in 
Construction, Utility Management, or related area and five (5) years of work experience in a 
water distribution system.

Work Environment:
Required physical, lifting, and sensory capabilities are requirements to perform the job 
successfully. Typical environmental conditions associated with job.

Lifting Requirements:
Heavy work: Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force 
frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

It is the policy of the City of Atlanta ("COA") that qualified individuals with disabilities are not discriminated against because of
their disabilities regarding job application procedures, hiring, and other terms and conditions of employment. It is further the 
policy of the COA to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in all aspects of the employment 
process. The COA is prepared to modify or adjust the job application process or the job or work environment to make reasonable 
accommodations to the known physical or mental limitations of the applicant or employee to enable the applicant or employee to 
be considered for the position he or she desires, to perform the essential functions of the position in question, or to enjoy equal 
benefits and privileges of employment as are enjoyed by other similarly situated employees without disabilities, unless the 
accommodation will impose an undue hardship. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Human Resources 
Director for your department.

The City of Atlanta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, 
disability, sex, sexual orientation, ender identity, marital status, veteran's status or national origin, or any other basis prohibited 
by federal, state, or local law. We value and encourage diversity in our workforce.