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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT Must possess a valid Florida Department Environmental Protection (FDEP) Water Distribution System Operators Class I License. A valid Florida Class A Commercial Driver's License is ...

NASSCO PACP certification, Water Distribution Operator license, and 40 hour OSHA training is a plus. A valid driver's license is required. The candidate must also be self-motivated, work well with ...

NASSCO PACP certification, Water Distribution Operator license, and 40 hour OSHA training is a plus. A valid driver's license is required. The candidate must also be self-motivated, work well with ...

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Florida salary details

$9

$19

$30

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Florida is $19.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $22.64 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 job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Water Distribution Operator jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Water Distribution Operator job openings:
Water Distribution Supervisor

Water Distribution Supervisor

City of Palm Bay

Palm Bay, FL • On-site

$62K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


City Of Palm Bay rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

297th of 692 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

MINIMUM TRAINING & EXPERIENCE May be eligible for sign-on bonus: Local applicants - up to $2,500 Out of area/Relocating - up to $7,500 Graduation from high school plus a minimum of five (5) years of experience in water distribution system operation and maintenance. An associate degree in water technology or related field is preferred. Two (2) years of supervisory experience working in a foreman, or higher, capacity for a water distribution system required.

Must possess a valid Florida Driver's License and have and maintain an acceptable driving record. SPECIAL REQUIREMENT Must possess a valid Florida Department Environmental Protection (FDEP) Water Distribution System Operators Class I License. A valid Florida Class A Commercial Driver's License is preferred.

Licenses/Certifications must be kept current while in this classification. NOTE: Out of State candidates applying for reciprocity of the required license may be considered for this position. EMERGENCY DECLARATION STATUS Code 1: Essential Employees may be required to work during an undeclared emergency and/or declared emergency.

On an incident-by-incident basis, the employee's Department Head will make the determination as to who will be required to work. GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB Under general supervision, performs supervisory and administrative work overseeing the technical installation, maintenance and repair of the City's water distribution infrastructure and related appurtenances; to include raw water transmission and reclaimed water systems. Work includes considerable independence and discretion while planning, organizing, supervising and reviewing the work of skilled and semi-skilled workers performing assigned tasks and, at times, during emergency circumstances.

Typical maintenance work overseen by this position includes, but is not limited to, repairs on potable water mains and service lines, hydrants, valves, meters and heavy equipment related operations. Must be able to plan and coordinate several simultaneous and complex activities in multiple locations performed by subordinate staff. Responsible for establishing and monitoring schedules, purchasing equipment, supplies and material and preparing activity reports.

In cases where in-house construction projects are required, employee shall be responsible for establishing construction schedules, procurement of all parts, equipment and/or materials required to complete project to entirety, following all City of Palm Bay specifications and standards. Reports to the Water Distribution Superintendent. SPECIFIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBLITIES ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Supervises, assigns and directs activities of the City's water distribution system operations.

Develops, establishes and ensures adherence to policies, goals, procedures and standards. Effectively leads staff by communicating Departmental goals, divesting control and encouraging employee innovation through the implementation of reciprocated practices. Administers and makes recommendations for routine personnel matters affecting direct subordinates, including recruiting, interviewing, hiring, training, assigning, scheduling, granting leave, performance evaluations and discipline, etc., and submitting such records and reports as required per Department and City policies

Establishes and monitors adherence to maintenance schedules for Department equipment; oversees performance of maintenance and repair work as scheduled or otherwise necessary. Researches equipment and supply prices and prepares purchase specifications; purchase supplies and equipment as necessary to maintain adequate inventory for daily maintenance operations. Prepares and maintains various activity records and reports; submits reports to management as requested or as otherwise deemed appropriate; projects personnel and cost estimates to assist in Department budget proposal preparation.

Reviews trade journals and other appropriate literature to enhance and maintain knowledge of trends and developments in the field of water distribution. Prepares rough drawings, specifications and calculations for the rehabilitation and replacement of the water systems. Determines equipment, labor, and material requirements to perform construction projects.

Utilizes computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), GIS and other related programs to manage workflows and data collection. Responds to questions and complaints from the public related to division activities and explains City of Palm Bay Utility policies, as necessary. Consults with staff to resolve technical, operational or personnel problems; troubleshoots complex technical problems, develops alternative solutions and makes recommendations for action.

May be assigned to shift work. May be required to work weekends and holidays. May be required to respond to after hour calls.

ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONS Performs other related work as required. This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position. While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary that are a logical assignment to the position.


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