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Utility Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Peak Utility Services Group

Gas Operator

Hope, AR · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

This position will be required to operate a mini excavator to dig around live utilities. Operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner as required for placing utilities to new and ...

Superior Pipeline Services

Gas Operator

Hope, AR · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

This position will be required to operate a mini excavator to dig around live utilities. Operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner as required for placing utilities to new and ...

VALTO Inc

Front Utility

Jonesboro, AR · On-site

Monitor operating condition of equipment and machinery at front-end of the line. Communicate any ... Each front utility should have a tape gun. * Use skill saw to cut boards needed for skids and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsUtility Operator JobsUtility Operator Jobs in Arkansas

Utility Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$11

$21

$30

How much do utility operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility operator in Arkansas is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Utility Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectUtility OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in safety and equipment operationHigh school diploma, certifications in water treatment and safety
Work EnvironmentFactories, power plants, utility facilitiesWater treatment plants, municipal facilities
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, energy providersMunicipalities, water service providers

Utility Operators and Water Treatment Plant Operators both work in utility environments and require safety and equipment operation certifications. However, Utility Operators often work across various utility sectors, while Water Treatment Plant Operators focus specifically on water purification processes. Both roles are essential in maintaining public utility services and share similar credentials and work environments.

What are the duties of a utility operator?

A utility operator is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment used in the production and distribution of utilities such as water, gas, or electricity. They monitor systems, perform inspections, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety protocols are followed, often working with control panels and tools. Certification and knowledge of safety standards are typically required for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, operational procedures, and safety regulations, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pumps, valves, and relevant certifications such as OSHA or water/wastewater operator licenses is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators manage issues and collaborate with team members. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of utility systems and help maintain compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges utility operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them effectively?

Utility Operators often work rotating shifts, which can affect sleep patterns and personal schedules. Managing fatigue, maintaining consistent communication with team members across shifts, and responding quickly to unexpected equipment issues are common challenges. Effective strategies include adhering to a sleep routine, staying updated on shift handovers, and participating in regular safety and equipment training. Building strong teamwork and clear communication helps ensure smooth operations and minimizes downtime.

What is a utility operator?

A utility operator is a machinist who works with different types of utility systems, such as water piping, wastewater plants, electrical cabling, or manufacturing equipment. Typical job duties include installation, maintenance, and repair of utilities. Qualifications for this job depend on the type of utilities but often include experience working with mechanical systems. Additional career skills include knowledge of specific types of machinery, such as overhead cranes and forklifts.

More about Utility Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in Arkansas? For Utility Operator jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Operator jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Operator jobs in Arkansas are:
What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Utility Operator jobs? Cities in Arkansas with the most Utility Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Utility Operator jobs in AR? For Utility Operator jobs in AR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Utility Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Operator job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,881 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Gas Operator

Peak Utility Services Group

Hope, AR • On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Position Title: Gas Operator
Our Core Values: Guided by Safety. Focused on Communities. Powered by Care.
Classification: Non-Exempt
Essential Functions:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
The Operator I is a valued member of a 2-4-person construction crew, has full knowledge of operations, and is an expert in heavy equipment. This position will be required to operate a mini excavator to dig around live utilities. Operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner as required for placing utilities to new and existing residential homes, multifamily and commercial units. Heavy equipment may include trucks, front end loaders, dozers, graders, compactors, trenchers, backhoes, loaders, and other pieces of equipment.
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Operates, maneuvers, navigates, or drives vehicles or mechanized equipment or passenger vehicles.
  • Uses either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes.
  • Inspects equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
  • Uses relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards and communicates abnormal working conditions to appropriate parties.
  • Provides mid-level laborer functions including hand digging with a shovel, setting up traffic control, equipment operations, loading materials, etc. on various safety sensitive utility construction sites.
  • Proficient with utility print and map reading.
  • Has performed at least 6 months of independent operating of various equipment (directional drill, mini); knows all safety regulations with basic operating skills.
  • Meets company and customer specifications for all trench or backhoe jobs.
  • Exposes underground utilities manually.
  • Utilizes defensive driving practices.
  • Operates truck in a manner that ensures compliance with all applicable company, state and federal safety regulations.
  • Follows required company and DOT reporting procedures.
  • Maintains paperwork during the day including DVIR and driver's log book.
  • Ensures the truck has current licenses, tags, permits, and proof of insurance.
  • Clean, Grease, checks fluid levels and conducts a visual inspection of equipment to assure your equipment is performing at optimum safety and the required paperwork.
  • Working alongside with another team member taking hand signals to safely excavate a site.
  • Follows 811 digging laws and company's safe digging practices.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Success Factors:
  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor for extended periods, often under adverse climatic conditions.
  • Ability to lift up to 80 lbs multiple times during a work shift.
  • Ability to climb, dig, work in tight spaces, on uneven surfaces, walking, stooping, and kneeling.
  • Ability to understand and follow specific oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to work well independently and as a part of a team with co-workers.
  • Ability to pass motor vehicle, criminal background check, and comply with drug-free workplace policy.
  • English usage sufficient to keep records, place orders, and prepare simple narrative reports.
  • Willingness and ability to learn additional skills.

Experience and Education:
  • One (1+) plus years of experience in backhoe/mini excavator operation is required.
  • One (1+) plus years of experience digging and working around underground utilities is required.
  • Two (2+) plus years of demonstrated experience in dry utilities preferred.
  • Three (3+) plus years' experience in a construction role is required.
  • Experience reading basic prints and Underground Facility Location Sketch is preferred.
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted on a year-to-year basis.

Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications:
  • Maintain valid Driver's License
    Candidates must pass criminal and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) background checks and pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Notes:
The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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