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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Must have obtained and currently possess at least a Grade 1 Water Distribution System Operators Certificate from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. * Must have a valid Arizona ...

OPERATOR I Under immediate supervision performs basic installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of water distribution system. Assist and operate specialized equipment, machines, and vehicles ...

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

OPERATOR I Under immediate supervision performs basic installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of water distribution system. * Assist and operate specialized equipment, machines, and ...

Assists with maintenance of water distribution components and water production equipment. Assists with verification of water plans, bluestaking and repair of water mains and fire hydrants. Assists ...

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$24

$37

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Arizona is $24.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $28.22 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 Arizona? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Water Distribution Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Water Distribution Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,599 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Water Distribution Operator

Water Distribution Operator

City of Avondale

Avondale, AZ

$24.65 - $36.98/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Description The Water Distribution Operator performs a variety of daily tasks to operate, maintain, and repair the City's water distribution system. Work includes preventative and reactive O&M activities to ensure reliable system operation. Daily work tasks include repairs, replacements, and evaluation of the water mains, valves, hydrants, service lines, water meters, air release valves, blow-off valves, and other system appurtenances.

Under the direct supervision of the Water Distribution Supervisor, the Water Distribution Operator also performs system manipulations, system shutdowns, customer service investigations, and assists with other divisional tasks, including utility locating and marking and various water meter service activities. The Water Distribution Operator is responsible for responding to emergencies and is required to participate in the 'on-call' program, responding to after-hours callbacks on a rotating schedule as needed. Work may be performed independently or in small teams.

Essential Functions Performs predictive, preventative, and reactive operation and maintenance activities on the City's domestic water system, including valve exercising, valve maintenance, hydrant maintenance, hydrant flushing, customer service investigations, and more. Repairs main breaks, isolates broken mains, sets up traffic control, and operates equipment such as backhoes, combination jet/vacuum trucks, ditch witch units, dump trucks, utility service trucks, jackhammers, underground piercing units, pneumatic and electric power tools, and other equipment for distribution system repair. Repairs and/or replaces water service lines, water valves, valve boxes, air release valves, blow-offs, pressure reducing valves, fire hydrants, and other system appurtenances.

Communicates planned and unplanned interruptions in water service to customers. Ensures work areas are clean and hazard-free after completion of each assignment. Utilizes the City's CMMS software on a daily basis to accurately record and reflect proper equipment, labor, and asset utilization for each assignment.

Investigates customer complaints related to water service, such as low or high water pressure, water quality, air entrainment, system leaks, and more. Participates in the rotational 'on-call' program and responds to emergency callbacks as required. Follows all standard operating procedures (SOP) and job hazard analysis (JHA) for distribution operations and maintenance.

Safely performs work and utilizes required safety equipment (PPE) as required. Occasionally enters confined spaces by safely following OSHA safety regulations. Performs other duties as required, including occasional chlorine residual testing, leak detection, and emergency system marking as required by Arizona811.

May be called upon to assist other divisions within the Department and performs other duties as required. To view the full job description and learn more about the responsibilities and qualifications, please click to view the Class Specification here. Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or GED equivalency is required.

Work requires a knowledge or interest in basic mechanical and/or repair processes. Knowledge obtained through a vocational school or technical college is preferred. One (1) year of experience in operating and maintaining a water distribution system, operating heavy equipment, and/or experience in a construction-related field is required.

An equivalent combination of education and job-related experience may be considered on a year-for-year basis. Must possess an Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Water Distribution Operator Grade I Certification or be able to obtain the Certification within six (6) months of hire, and must be able to maintain certification for the duration of employment. Must possess an Arizona Class 'A' CDL upon hire and must be able to obtain a tanker endorsement within six (6) months of hire and maintain the license for the duration of employment.