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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Water Distribution Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in California is $25.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $29.90 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 California? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Water Distribution Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Water Distribution Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,586 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Water Distribution Operator I or II (55.26)

Water Distribution Operator I or II (55.26)

Golden State Water Company

Hollister, CA • On-site

$24.28 - $29.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Golden State Water Company is one of the largest investor-owned water utilities in the United States. We deliver quality, reliable water to more than 1 million people in over 80 communities throughout California. Golden State Water has been in business for more than 90 years because we put customers first.
THIS POSTING IS FOR ONE OPEN POSITION WE ARE ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR I / II. POSITION OFFERED WILL DEPEND ON THE CANDIDATE'S QUALIFICATIONS.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities for all levels of Water Distribution Operator
• Learns to perform the various tasks associated with the maintenance and operation of a water distribution system.
• Learns the proper use of tools and equipment required to perform the job.
• Under direction, participates in the installation, repairs and replacement of water mains, water services, valves, fire hydrants and water meters.
• Interacts with customers and acts as a representative of the Company.
• Performs basic customer support activities associated with the installation, modification, service and repair of water distribution equipment and facilities.
• Locates water main and service lines.
• Installs, repairs and replaces water mains, water services, water meters, valves, fire hydrants and other water distribution system appurtenances.
• Performs routine maintenance activities such as system flushing, valve exercising and fire hydrant maintenance.
• Inspects and tests equipment and records accurate details of working order.
• Performs fire flow tests and accurately records all data.
• Notifies customers of scheduled and emergency outages.
• Develops and implements shut-downs of the water distribution system for planned and emergency work.
• Familiar with the basic duties and tasks associated with the operation and maintenance of a water distribution system.
• May operate heavy machinery including dump truck and back hoe.
• Familiar with basic safe-work practices including but not limited to traffic control, personal protective equipment, basic trench shoring, hazardous materials, confined space and electrical safety.
• Performs meter reads, ons and offs and field investigations.
• Performs collection activities of delinquent accounts.
• Participates in routine maintenance activities such as system flushing, valve exercising and fire hydrant maintenance.
• Under direction, follows established policies and procedures in repair of equipment to ensure proper working order.
• Operates company vehicles and equipment according to established safety procedures and policies.
• Prepares daily logs and reports on work performed.
• May require after hour work due to 24-hour operation
• Available for emergency response, 24 hours/day, seven days/week
• Must reside within 25 miles of the nearest water system boundary where assigned in order to respond to emergencies.
• Performs other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications for a Water Distribution Operator I and II
• High school diploma or equivalent
• General PC skills
• Good communication (both written and verbal) and organizational skills
• Valid California driver license
Certification Requirements for a Water Distribution Operator I
• Not Applicable
Certification / Experience Requirements for a Water Distribution Operator II
• SWRCB Grade 1 Water Distribution Operator Certificate
• Two years as a Water Distribution Operator I or equivalent experience in the water utility industry
Qualities of a Successful Distribution Operator I and II
• Trustworthy; strong personal integrity
• Demonstrates strong level of accountability and ownership
• Collaborative/Team oriented
• Emotional Maturity
• Exhibits professionalism with internal and external customers
• Organized with strong attention to detail and time management skills
• High degree of initiative; self-starter
May include working in all weather conditions, during all hours of the day. Physical demands include but are not limited to standing, climbing, walking, lifting, bending, pulling and/or pushing, grasping, reaching, stooping and crouching, sitting, typing, walking, reading, writing, color determination, speaking and listening for extended periods of time.
BENEFITS
Our Company supports our employees with rich benefit programs and resources to help them thrive today and prepare for tomorrow. Benefit options include medical, dental, and vision plans with the Company currently paying 85% of the monthly premium for employees and their eligible dependents. We also offer paid vacation and sick time and twelve Company paid holidays per year. To help our employees plan for the future, we offer both a 401(k) retirement plan as well as a Defined Contribution Profit Sharing retirement plan. Additional benefits include life, AD&D, and LTD insurance as well as health savings account and flexible spending plans.
COMPENSATION INFORMATION
The compensation range provided is in compliance with state specific laws. Multiple factors are used to determine the actual starting rate of pay for all of our positions, including specific skills, years of experience, education, certification(s), and other job related factors.
The responsibilities of this position will involve access to information that may be considered confidential, private and sensitive. Therefore, the individual filling this position will be required to both allow and pass a background check.
NOTE: Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with special needs to perform the essential functions.