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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Addison Group

Maintenance Superintendent

Lakewood, CO · On-site

Colorado Distribution Operator Level III certification (or higher) preferred. * Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Water Utility Management, or a related field preferred ...

Pueblo Water

Maintenance Worker I In-Training

Pueblo, CO · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Colorado Class 2 Water Distribution Operator certification. * Must successfully complete continuing education/training unit courses required to maintain certification. * Two years of related ...

MasTec

Underground Distribution Operator

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

... and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power ... Job Summary The UGE Operator is responsible for operating the machines required to install the ...

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All JobsWater Distribution Operator JobsWater Distribution Operator Jobs in Colorado

Water Distribution Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Colorado is $27.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.73 and $31.83 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 Colorado? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Water Distribution Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Water Distribution Operator job openings:
Water Distribution Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,095 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Water Distribution Superintendent

Addison Group

Lakewood, CO • On-site

$97K - $121K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Water Distribution Superintendent

Location: Lakewood, CO

Compensation: $97,000 – $121,500 Base Salary (Exempt)

Status: Exempt, Salaried

Company Overview

Our client is a well-established water utility serving a large residential and commercial customer base throughout the greater Denver metropolitan area. This leadership position plays a critical role in maintaining the reliability, safety, and performance of the organization's water distribution infrastructure while leading multiple field operations teams responsible for preventative maintenance, emergency response, and capital improvement initiatives.


Position Summary

The Water Distribution Superintendent is responsible for leading the daily operations, maintenance, and reliability of the water distribution system. This individual will oversee multiple supervisors and field crews while planning work activities, prioritizing infrastructure improvements, monitoring regulatory compliance, and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the distribution network.

This role serves as a key operational leader responsible for balancing field leadership with strategic planning, budgeting, asset management, and personnel development.


Responsibilities

  • Lead, mentor, and develop multiple supervisors, operators, technicians, and contractors responsible for water distribution operations.
  • Plan, prioritize, and coordinate daily maintenance activities, preventative maintenance programs, emergency repairs, and capital improvement projects.
  • Oversee inspections of water distribution infrastructure, equipment, pump stations, hydrants, valves, pipelines, and related assets to ensure system reliability and regulatory compliance.
  • Monitor operational performance, maintenance activities, budgets, and department metrics while identifying opportunities for continuous improvement.
  • Evaluate infrastructure conditions and assist in prioritizing asset replacement and long-term capital improvement planning.
  • Review operational reports, maintenance summaries, regulatory documentation, and system performance data to support informed decision-making.
  • Coordinate with Engineering, Operations, contractors, regulatory agencies, and executive leadership regarding infrastructure projects and operational priorities.
  • Lead emergency response efforts involving water main failures, equipment breakdowns, weather events, and other distribution system emergencies.
  • Foster a strong safety culture by coaching employees, conducting performance evaluations, and ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
  • Maintain effective communication with internal departments, contractors, government agencies, customers, and other external stakeholders.
  • Stay current on industry regulations, technologies, and best practices to improve operational performance and employee development.


Qualifications

  • Minimum 8 years of progressively responsible experience within water distribution, utility operations, or closely related infrastructure environments.
  • Previous leadership experience managing supervisors, field personnel, or multiple operational teams.
  • Strong knowledge of water distribution systems, maintenance practices, construction methods, underground utilities, pumps, valves, hydrants, and related infrastructure.
  • Experience planning maintenance activities, allocating resources, budgeting, and managing capital improvement projects.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical documents, and operational reports.
  • Strong problem-solving, decision-making, communication, and leadership skills.
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Water Utility Management, or a related discipline preferred (equivalent experience considered).
  • State Water Distribution Operator certification (or ability to obtain reciprocal certification) preferred.


Preferred Experience

  • Water utility maintenance and reliability leadership.
  • Infrastructure asset management and lifecycle planning.
  • Preventative maintenance programs.
  • Pump station operations and maintenance.
  • Capital improvement project coordination.
  • Regulatory compliance and emergency response.
  • Contractor management.
  • Budget planning and resource allocation.
  • Utility safety programs and employee development.


Benefits

  • Competitive base salary
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Pension Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Vacation & Sick Time
  • Paid Holidays
  • Professional Development & Training
  • Wellness Program


Additional Information

  • Full-time, exempt leadership position based onsite in Lakewood, CO.
  • Primarily onsite with a combination of office leadership and field oversight.
  • Rotating on-call responsibility requires candidates to reside within approximately one hour of the service territory to respond to operational emergencies.
  • Opportunity to lead a highly visible maintenance and reliability organization while driving infrastructure improvements, employee development, and long-term operational excellence.

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