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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Water/Wastewater Practice Builder

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principals * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Water Quality Specialist

Bullhead City, AZ · On-site

$31.74 - $47.12/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Possess any Three (3) AZ Certified Operator licenses: Water Treatment, Water Distribution. Wastewater Collection or Wastewater Treatment with a minimum of grade II in any two (2) categories.

Showing results 41-60

Water Distribution Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$12

$24

$37

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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 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.

How much does a water distribution operator make?

A water distribution operator in California typically earns an average annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

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 municipalities and utilities upgrade aging systems and require skilled workers with certifications such as Class A or B licenses. The job often involves working in outdoor environments and operating specialized equipment.

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.

Is it hard to become a water distribution operator?

Becoming a water distribution operator typically requires completing relevant training, obtaining necessary certifications such as a water distribution operator license, and gaining experience in water systems. The difficulty varies depending on local regulations and the level of certification required, but it generally involves technical knowledge, physical work, and adherence to safety standards.

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 August 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 Resources Environmental Compliance Inspector I/II - Water Quality

City of Mesa

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$57K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


City Of Mesa rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

218th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description/Duties There is currently one vacancy in the Water Quality assignment, which will be filled at either a level I or level II. This recruitment may also be used to fill future vacancies in the Backflow assignment area. The first review of all applications will be on Monday, August 31, 2026, and weekly thereafter.

Water Resources Environmental Compliance Inspector I ($57,975.63 - $84,314.26 annually) The Environmental Compliance Inspector I position is the first position in a series responsible for performing work and program administration duties in support of the Regulatory Compliance Program. The primary function of the Environmental Compliance Inspector I position is to maintain compliance with state, federal, county, and local regulations, and to protect the health and safety of Mesa's citizens and employees, the water distribution system, and the Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) systems. The Water Quality Inspector samples, monitors, and supports regulatory activities for Drinking Water

This class is distinguished from the Environmental Compliance Inspector II by performing more routine inspections, technical work, program administration duties, and has a more limited knowledge of environmental regulations. The Environmental Compliance Inspector II has extensive knowledge regarding applicable regulations and works with the more complex inspections. This class is supervised by the supervisor in their assigned area and may take direction from an Environmental Compliance Inspector II.

Employees in this class can progress to the Water Resources Environmental Compliance Inspector II class by noncompetitive, criteria-based promotion. This class is subject to frequent emergency call-outs and must be available to work scheduled stand-by and overtime on nights, weekends, and holidays as required. This class is FLSA non-exempt.

Water Resources Environmental Compliance Inspector II ($60,903.44 - $88,572.85 annually) An Environmental Compliance Inspector II position performs advanced level work in water quality inspections, reclaimed/air quality inspections, industrial pretreatment inspections, and backflow/cross-connection inspections. An individual in this class possesses and applies considerable independent judgement and knowledge in environmental regulations and performs the more complex inspections. The primary function of the Environmental Compliance Inspector is to maintain compliance with State, Federal, County, and Local regulations and to protect the health and safety of Mesa's citizens, employees, the water distribution system, and the Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW) systems

The Water Quality Inspector samples, monitors, and supports regulatory activities for Drinking Water. This class is distinguished from the Environmental Compliance Inspector I by performing more complex inspections, completing and submitting the more detailed reports to the various regulatory agencies, and having a more diverse knowledge in environmental regulations. This class is supervised by the supervisor in their assigned area and does not supervise but may provide direction to an Environmental Compliance Inspector I.

This class is subject to frequent emergency call-outs and must be available to work scheduled stand-by and overtime on nights, weekends, and holidays as required. This class is FLSA non-exempt. Please refer to the link below for the full job description and additional information regarding assignments, preferred qualifications, and essential functions.

Qualifications & Requirements Employee Values: All employees of the City of Mesa are expected to uphold and exhibit the City's shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity. Water Resources Environmental Compliance Inspector I Minimum Qualifications Required. Graduation from high school or GED.

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to three years' technical experience in water resources (water or environmental quality, wastewater systems, water/wastewater treatment, industrial pretreatment, water distribution, backflow, stormwater, etc.). Two years of college level coursework, including 12 credit hours of environmental, physical, or biological science coursework may substitute for one year of required work experience (official or unofficial transcripts must be attached with application for verification). Special Requirements

Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License by hire or promotion date. Must obtain within one year of hire date and maintain a Grade I operator certification from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) in either Water Treatment or Distribution certification. Must obtain within one year of hire date and maintain a forty-hour HazWoper certification.

Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment or pre-placement alcohol, drug, and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy and procedures. Water Resources Environmental Compliance Inspector II Minimum Qualifications Required.

Graduation from high school or GED. Any combination of education and/or experience equivalent to five years' experience in the field of water quality, wastewater or environmental quality, backflow, stormwater, industrial pretreatment, water/wastewater treatment, water distribution, wastewater collections, or closely related field. An Associate's degree in a physical or biological science or closely related field may substitute for two years' of experience.

Special Requirements. Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License by hire or promotion date. Must obtain and maintain by start date, a Grade I operator certification in Water Treatment or Distribution as appropriate from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).

Must possess, obtain, and maintain within one year of hire a Forty Hour HAZWOPER certification. Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment or pre-placement alcohol, drug, and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy and procedures.

Link to Job Description Water Resources Environmental Compliance Inspector I http://apps.mesaaz.gov/jobdescriptions/Documents/JobDescriptions/cs4713.pdf Water Resources Environmental Compliance Inspector II https://apps.mesaaz.gov/jobdescriptions/Documents/JobDescriptions/cs4802.pdf


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