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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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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 Jun 15, 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 are popular job titles related to Water Distribution Operator jobs in Florida? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Florida as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,576 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Water Distribution Operator I

Water Distribution Operator I

City of Clearwater

Clearwater, FL • On-site

$53K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

City Of Clearwater (Florida) rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

544th of 649 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

THE CITY OF CLEARWATER IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship. City of Clearwater will not sponsor employment visas (e.g., H-1B, or any other work authorization status). Position Description ENTRY SALARY: $ 53,662.26 Under general supervision, the Water Distribution Operator I performs skilled, manual labor in the installation, maintenance, and repair of water mains and appurtenances including repairs to grounds, sidewalks, and streets

Maintains water distribution systems, and performs minor repairs, installations, and tests. POSITION OPEN UNTIL FILLED Duties and Responsibilities Essential Functions: -- Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Performs general maintenance and repair of the water distribution system and all equipment and general operations; works under general direction and serves as a crew leader and trainer for the Water Distribution Operator Trainees.

Makes daily operational checks and performs maintenance for all components of the water distribution systems; performs manual labor and investigation for service calls. Performs installations, repair, and maintenance of water mains, meters, and line extensions within the City. Maintains hydrants, valves, water meters, backflow water meters, and service lines; performs minor repairs, installations, and testing of equipment under direct supervision.

Removes dirt, concrete, blacktop, and other materials; digs ditches for laying pipe by use of a trenching machine, backhoe, or manually; assists installing line and laying pipe. Makes, creates, and assists in the development of taps for new water mains and extensions; installs and replaces fittings and performs minor repair work on damaged pipe. Cleans, paints, and maintains fire hydrants, water meters, backflow devices and water distribution appurtenances and surrounding areas.

Locates water lines and sewer lines; uses shut-off valves, repairs leaks, and replaces gate valves, fire hydrants, and other appurtenances. Installs, tests, and repairs water meters and backflow prevention devices and related equipment; assists in the warehouse with stocking, inventory, order pulling, and distribution of parts. Handles complaints, service, and investigations for water distribution issues from customers; performs skills to remedy problems.

Performs standby duty for after-hour responses; assists department in the event of an emergency and may be required to work odd or altered hours. Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Licenses, Certifications, and Equipment: A valid State driver's license is required.

Florida Department of Environmental Protection Water Distribution Operator Level 3 License is required. Does this position require a Commercial Driver's License. Yes Type: Possession and maintenance of Class A CDL within 1 year of hire date.

This position is required to operate the below equipment, machines, tools, and other work aides: Specialized equipment such as directional bore machine, hydraulic valve tuning equipment, portable vacuum trailers, backhoe, trackhoe, light dump truck, double diaphragm pump, walk behind cut saw, hand held cut saw, plate compactor, jumping jack, 90 lb. jackhammer, hand tools, atlas, handheld radio, computer, tablet, and other equipment as assigned. Education and Experience: High School Diploma, High School Equivalency Diploma, or G.E.D Certificate AND completion of the apprentice program as a Water Distribution Operator Trainee, supplemented by two (2) years of experience in construction or operations pertaining to water distribution career field; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered

Supplemental Information Knowledge of - Water materials, method, procedures, and equipment used in the installation, maintenance, and repair of mains and service lines Procedures for locating and repairing leaks Water and distribution systems Common hand and power tools Pipes and fittings Hazards and safety precautions connected with the water and sewer system Equipment maintenance practices and methods Skill in - Operating equipment common to waterworks distribution and sanitary construction Performing repairs and maintenance Operating motorized equipment Reading and interpreting atlases, plans, and specifications Interpreting, and applying various regulations and codes Applying mechanical and mathematical aptitude Teaching and training lower level staff and operators Seeing numbers and demarcations on gauges or dials Understanding and interpreting complex policies, protocols, and procedures

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