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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Water Operator - Distribution

Pine Bluff, AR

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Purpose The Water Operator performs routine functions associated with the daily operations of a water production and distribution system. Duties include daily checks of wells, pumps, lift stations ...

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Bentonville, AR ยท On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/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 ...

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Bentonville, AR

$19 - $26.25/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 ...

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Bentonville, AR ยท On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/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 ...

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Bentonville, AR ยท On-site

$19 - $26.25/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 ...

HVAC/R Supervisor

State University, AR ยท On-site

$72K - $75K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating at or below 15 psi; high pressure steam generation and distribution remain the responsibility of the Heat Plant and District Energy Station classifications. Water treatment and water ...

Meter Reader

Pine Bluff, AR

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform Water Distribution duties as assigned. * Preforms routine meter box and meter setting ... Ability to secure an Arkansas Department of Health Grade D1 water operator license within 18 months ...

Meter Reader

Pine Bluff, AR

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform Water Distribution duties as assigned. * Preforms routine meter box and meter setting ... Ability to secure an Arkansas Department of Health Grade D1 water operator license within 18 months ...

Meter Reader

Pine Bluff, AR ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform Water Distribution duties as assigned. * Preforms routine meter box and meter setting ... Ability to secure an Arkansas Department of Health Grade D1 water operator license within 18 months ...

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$10

$21

$33

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Arkansas is $21.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $25.05 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 Arkansas?

For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Arkansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Arkansas are:

Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,899 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Water Distribution Operator I

City of Bentonville, Arkansas

Bentonville, AR โ€ข On-site

$19.05 - $20.96/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Safety/Security Status: Safety Sensitive


SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Water Distribution Supervisor and supervision of the Crew Leader, performs work on all aspects of the water distribution system including all maintenance, repair, and new installation. Considered entry level, this position typically has 0-1 year experience and is working towards obtaining a Class I Water Distribution Operator License.

Levels of Responsibility


Responsibility Asset Value: None

Technology Knowledge: Workorder Management System, Microsoft Outlook, Executime, Esri products, and BambooHR

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Assists in ensuring that safe, reliable drinking water is delivered in accordance with Federal, State, and City regulations related to public health.

Assists in the installation, repair, and replacement of water mains, services, and all other appurtenances.

Measures, cuts, assembles, and installs a variety of metal and nonmetal pipes, tubes, and fittings, including iron, steel, copper, and plastic.

Has a general understanding of the proper use of all tools and equipment required for the job.

Drives and operates dump trucks to transport and unload materials.

Drives and operates tractors, backhoes, mini-excavators, skid steers, hydro-excavation equipment, and other heavy machinery.

Provides traffic control and is a safety spotter for others working on or near streets or in ditches.

Maintains crew vehicles and equipment including fuel, lubrication, tools, and parts inventory. Ensures all tools and equipment are properly cleaned and stowed.

Assists in the removal and replacement of landscaping, sidewalks, and driveways before and after the completion of projects.

Able and willing to work a rotational stand-by schedule and able to work overtime as needed.

This position is considered a first responder in the event of a citywide emergency or disaster situation. During such an event, this position will respond and perform tasks that are assigned based on the need of the situation.

Reporting relationships, work assignments, and work schedules may be subject to change in order to meet City needs or operational requirements. Attendance at work and the ability to get along with the public, supervisors, and co-workers are essential elements of this position. Other duties may be assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Must also reside within a 30-minute radius of the Water Utilities office in order to respond to emergencies that may arise.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or general education degree (GED). One (1) year related experience and/or training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience preferred but not required.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide into all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percentage. Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.


CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, SPECIAL SKILLS

  • Possess or has the ability to obtain a Class "A" Commercial Driver's License (within 12 months)
  • Ability to obtain a Class I Water Distribution Operator License (within 24 months)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and taste or smell. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and outside weather conditions. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, extreme cold, extreme heat, and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; toxic or caustic chemicals; and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

WORK HAZARDS

Work hazards for this position include:

Noise from jackhammering concrete or asphalt, heavy equipment operations, air compressors, generators, hydro jet trucks, vacuum trucks, cutting/sawing operations, large electric motors, motor-driven pumps, electric saws, drills, and grinders.

Chemical, Bacteriological, and Physical Injury Hazards for this position would include:

Methane gas, natural gas, low oxygen levels, oxygen-rich levels, hydrogen sulfide gas, asbestos dust, clay dust, concrete (skin contact), Hepatitis A, B, and C, drowning, equipment injuries, traffic accidents, snake bites, insect bites, poison plants, and excavation cave-ins.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.