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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

The City of Eutaw Alabama

Utility Technician

Eutaw, AL

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Identify and Repair Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection System lines * Installation of new ... Under supervision of a certified operator, check wells and lift station for ADEM regulatory ...

The Scion Group

Maintenance Technician

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

Assume responsibility (as required) over operating, system monitoring/diagnostics, and preventative ... hot- & cold-water distribution systems (plumbing, pressure/pneumatic/storage tanks, variable ...

The Scion Group

Maintenance Manager

Birmingham, AL · On-site

... Standard Operating Procedures, and in compliance with the State/Federal Govt./OSHA's Codes ... hot & cold water distribution systems (plumbing, pressure/pneumatic/storage tanks, variable ...

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All JobsWater Distribution Operator JobsWater Distribution Operator Jobs in Alabama

Water Distribution Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$11

$23

$36

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Alabama is $23.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $27.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Water Distribution Operators?

Water Distribution Operators are professionals responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of clean drinking water to homes, businesses, and other facilities. They monitor water distribution systems, maintain equipment such as pipes, pumps, and valves, and test water quality to comply with health and safety regulations. These operators also respond to emergencies like leaks or contamination and keep detailed records of system performance. Their work is essential for public health and the reliable operation of municipal water systems.

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

AspectWater Distribution OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater Distribution Certification, State LicensingWater Treatment Certification, State Licensing
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, maintaining pipelines, valves, and metersPlant environment, operating treatment equipment
Job FocusDistributing potable water, repairing infrastructureTreating water to meet safety standards
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, utility companiesWater treatment facilities, municipal agencies

While both roles involve working with water systems, the Water Distribution Operator primarily manages the distribution network, ensuring safe water delivery, whereas the Water Treatment Plant Operator focuses on treating water to meet health standards. Certifications and work environments differ, but both are essential for maintaining safe and reliable water services.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Distribution Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Water Distribution Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to emergency repairs, maintaining water quality standards, and managing aging infrastructure. These situations require quick problem-solving, clear communication with team members, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Staying up-to-date with training and industry regulations can help operators handle these challenges efficiently, while strong teamwork ensures that issues are resolved promptly to maintain uninterrupted water service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Distribution Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Distribution Operator, you need a solid understanding of water distribution systems, hydraulics, and basic math, typically supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help operators quickly identify and resolve issues while coordinating with team members. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safe, reliable delivery of potable water and compliance with regulatory standards.
What are popular job titles related to Water Distribution Operator jobs in Alabama? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Alabama are:
Water Distribution Operator jobs near you
General Maintenance Worker

General Maintenance Worker

American Water Works Service Company, Inc.

Fort Novosel, AL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

American Water rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 50 rated energy and utility

Job description

Requisition ID:  109824 

Share Our Purpose.  Be Yourself.  Feel Valued. 

People are the heart of our business. As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career.  Our benefits packages focus on key areas such as health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.

We are Beautifully Different. We strongly believe having diversity across our company makes us more successful and helps us provide essential services to our customers. We are stronger because we embrace different ideas, viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds. American Water is the best choice for your next role!  Click here for more information on our inclusion, diversity, and equity journey.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations.  American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Primary Role

This position performs technical work in the maintenance and repair of water/wastewater systems. This position also assists in the Operations of the Water/Wastewater Treatment plants on an as needed basis. Annual average of time this position works in Repair & Maintenance versus Operations is as follows: 90% Repair & Maintenance and 10% Operations. Position may require some overtime, weekend, and holiday work as well as On-Call responsibility.

#LI-HA1. 

#LI-onsite.

Key Accountabilities
  • Using a company vehicle, performs repairs, preventive and corrective maintenance on water distribution systems, valves, hydrants, meters and mains and on wastewater collection systems, mains, manholes, clean outs etc.  process equipment including pumps, blowers, motors and maintains pumps, electrical controls, emergency signaling and related components.
  • Cleans and maintains wet wells, lift stations, grounds, facilities and related equipment.
  • Prepares orders for maintenance materials, supplies, spare parts and equipment.
  • Makes equipment adjustments and reports any serious equipment problems.
  • Maintains computerized and manual records and prepares reports pertaining to the operation of the water distribution & collection systems, reviews daily work orders, completes daily reports, and makes changes as required to meet operating requirements.
  • Identifies, schedules and coordinates the work of outside utility maintenance contractors in support of project.
  • Follows Company’s Environmental, Health, and Safety Policies.  Wear and work in proper personal protective equipment. Drives a company vehicle during scheduled work hours.
  • Assist with operational tasks in conjunction with operators or as directed by operators.
  • Performs other related functions assigned or as they become apparent or as management assigns.
Knowledge/Skills
  • Effectively and safely operates hand tools, pneumatic tools, air compressors and other small equipment related to the maintenance trades and water distribution and wastewater collection systems operations.
  • Hands-on experience in light duty electrical power systems (240 V/ single and three phase) and instrumentation calibration and use.
  • Ability to use and direct excavation crews for repairs of underground utilities, including past demonstrated experience using backhoe and driving a small dump truck.
  • Knowledge of mechanical operation, maintenance and repair of equipment and water and wastewater systems.
  • Knowledge of electrical systems related to equipment in assigned work area.
  • Knowledge of proper operation of hydraulic, pneumatic and telemetry equipment.
  • Knowledge of the National Electrical Code.
  • Knowledge of water and wastewater processes including ability to operate basic water distribution and wastewater collection systems independently.
Experience/Education
  • Must possess a high school diploma or GED.
  • Additional trade specific courses preferred.
  • Five (5) years’ experience in maintenance of water distribution systems, water pump stations and wastewater collection systems, wastewater Lift Stations etc.
Certifications & Licenses
  • Must possess a valid, active state license preferred commercial Driver’s License and be able to successfully pass a motor vehicle background check.
  • Prefer state certified Water and Wastewater Operator license.
Work Environment
  • Employee may be required to work indoor or outdoor work during seasonal heat and cold or other adverse weather conditions.
  • Employee may be required to work where regularly they may be exposed to fumes, dust and odors.
  • Some high noise levels from operations of equipment.
  • Must be physically able to complete necessary tasks while wearing an approved respirator as required, as some required work may have potential for exposure to harmful contaminants, environments, noise, etc.
  • May have to work after normal work hours for on-call assignments.
  • In addition to American Water’s pre-employment screenings, this position requires the ability to pass a Department of Defense background check for access to the military installation.
Travel Requirements

< 5%

Competencies
Champions safety
Customer obsessed
Cultivates innovation
Nimble learning
Drives Results
Collaborates

Join American Water...We Keep Life Flowing™

American Water is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants based on his or her age, race, color, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, citizenship, or because they are an individual with a disability, protected veteran or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws.

What American Water employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About American Water

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With a history dating back to 1886, American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 6,500 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and regulated-like drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people in 24 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to help keep their lives flowing.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Camden, NJ, US

Year founded

1886

Social media

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