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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

... Water Distribution Certifications after one-year experience as a Trainee. Employee must apply for ... Field Operator Trainee $42,973 - $56,724 Pay Grade 101 To perform this job successfully, an ...

Monitors panel boards and adjusts controls to regulate flow and distribution of water * Cleans ... operating conditions, meters, and gauges to determine load requirements and detect problems

CENTRAL PLANT OPERATOR

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$19.80 - $26/hr

... water distribution and plant operations. • Performs additional duties as assigned to support plant operations. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: • Proficient in operating and maintaining chilled ...

Utility Technician

Eutaw, AL · On-site

$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 ...

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$11

$23

$36

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 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 is a water distribution operator?

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 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 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 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.

Are water distribution operators in high demand?

Water distribution operators are in high demand due to ongoing infrastructure needs and the importance of maintaining safe drinking water. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as utilities seek skilled workers to operate and maintain water systems, often requiring certifications and technical knowledge.

How much does a water distribution operator make?

The average salary for a water distribution operator in California ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Is it hard to become a water distribution operator?

Becoming a water distribution operator typically requires completing relevant training, obtaining a state certification or license, and gaining experience in water systems. The difficulty varies depending on local requirements and the level of technical knowledge needed, but it generally involves passing exams and demonstrating practical skills. Strong attention to detail and understanding of safety protocols are also important for success in this role.

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:

Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,214 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Equipment Operator Skilled (Class B CDL) Water Distribution

GovernmentJobs.com

Phenix City, AL • On-site

$19.91 - $26.94/hr

Full-time

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


Job description

Utilities Department Water Distribution Operator

Employer: City of Phenix City

Salary: $19.91 - $26.94 Hourly

Location: Phenix City, AL

Job Type: Full-Time Permanent

Department: Utilities

Closing Date: Continuous

Job Summary

Under general supervision inspects equipment to ensure signaling and safety equipment is operable, checks for proper fluid levels, reports major equipment malfunctions to foreman, cleans and maintains equipment, operates various hand held tools and machinery to complete repair and construction; gather materials, equipment and tools needed to perform tasks; receives daily work assignments, reviews work orders, inspects work site to determine type of repair or installation needed and performs follow up inspection to ensure work has withheld, positions safety equipment around worksite and operates various equipment and tools in repairing asphalt and performs additional tasks in support of the department as needed or upon request.

Essential Job Duties & Responsibilities

  • Inspects equipment for proper operating condition and makes safety checks.
  • Using a grease gun performs lubrication services on equipment.
  • Checks oil, water and hydraulic fluid levels; adds fluids if needed.
  • Performs minor repairs and services on equipment to include replacing blown light bulb and fuses. Inspects tires to ensure no wear or damage is visible; uses air pressure gauge to ensure tires are properly inflated.
  • Refuels vehicle and gas powered equipment as needed.
  • Ensures that safety equipment such as fire extinguisher, road markers, and flares are on board and serviceable.
  • Reports major equipment malfunctions to foreman for repair by shop mechanics.
  • Receives instruction on assignments or special projects from supervisor.
  • Operates push mower to cut grass around facility grounds; uses string trimmer to cut grass in areas not easily accessible with mower.
  • Uses hand clippers to cut vines or other debris.
  • Operates jackhammer to cut large areas of concrete or pavement; uses backhoe to load and transport heavy debris.
  • Operates concrete saw to cut concrete when repairing sidewalks and driveways.
  • Operates backhoe to dig holes, repair or install asphalt for transporting to the landfill.
  • Operates other equipment used to lay water lines.
  • Uses shovel to fill holes with dirt or gravel; levels and packs surface using hand held packer.
  • Operates chain saw to remove low hanging limbs from right-of-ways.
  • Uses post hole diggers to dig holes and set poles near hydrants. Forms, mixes and pours concrete to repair areas damaged repairs.
  • Receives daily work assignments from supervisor; gathers materials and supplies before leaving for work site.
  • Reviews work orders and inspects work site to determine type of repair or installation needed.
  • Notifies customer and disconnects water leading to pipe before making repair.
  • Measures and marks section of pipe used in repairs and installations.
  • Operates pipe saw to cut pipe needed to repair water mains.
  • Uses various hand tools to include hammers, wrenches and hand saws to perform pipe fitting installation and repairs.
  • When performing new installations lays main pipe and use gland packs to connect and seal pipes. Performs follow up inspection to ensure installation and repairs have withheld.
  • Perform additional tasks as assigned or upon request.

Qualifications

Education & Experience Guidelines Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities required for this position would be:

Education/Training Have high school education, GED or demonstrated level of proficiency.

Experience Licenses or Certifications Required Valid Class B CDL state driver's license.

The following generally describes the knowledge and abilities required in order to successfully perform the assigned duties of the position:

  • Water distribution operations installation and maintenance.
  • Organization and operational procedures of asphalt repair and construction division of Utilities Department.
  • Various tools and equipment including packers, jack hammers and pipe saws.
  • Utilities department safety rules and procedures.

Ability to:

  • Comprehend directives, forms and other non-complex material.
  • Prepare reports, work orders and reports.
  • Communication skills to converse with supervisor and co-workers on work related issues.
  • Count, add, subtract, divide and perform simple calculations when measuring for pipe fitting. Operate push mower and string trimmer to cut grass around facility grounds.
  • Operate jack hammer to cut pavement, concrete and asphalt.
  • Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment used in laying water lines.
  • Operate chainsaw to remove low hanging limbs and debris.
  • Use pipe saw to cut pipes used in installations and repairs.
  • Work under general supervision and complete assigned tasks.
  • Exercise judgment particularly in tasks involving safety and others or efficiency operations.
  • Work as a member of a team.

Physical Demands & Working Environment

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the city encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations needed to perform the essential duties of this position.

Environment: Work done primarily outdoors.

Physical Demands: See accompanying page for details (Download PDF reader)

Key Working Relationship: Supervisors, co-workers and other city employees.

How to Apply

Applications for this position will be accepted until a pool of 20 applications is received or the position is filled, whichever comes first. Current city employees wishing to apply should send Internal Job Application provided by the Human Resources Department to the HR Director by the deadline stated. (A courtesy copy will be sent to the employee's department head.)

Applications can be found online (download an application (Download PDF reader)) or picked up at the City of Phenix City Human Resources Department: 1200 8th Avenue Phenix City, AL 36867 Ph: 334 448-2706

Applications are available for pick up and drop Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. ET. You may also email your completed application with the required supporting documents.