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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 Aug 10, 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,576 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Equipment Operator - Water Distribution/Sewer

City of Fort Myers

Fort Myers, FL

$21.24 - $32.13/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Description The City of Fort Myers strives to be an employer of choice and most of our employees turn jobs into long term careers. The salary shown in the job description is the full range for this position from entry to later career. NEW EMPLOYEES ARE HIRED AT, OR NEAR THE ENTRY POINT SHOWN, DEPENDING ON QUALIFICATIONS AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Safety Sensitive: YES Level II Screening: NO Under the general direction of the designated supervisor, the incumbent performs semi-skilled work in the operation of equipment and devices used in the maintenance of City streets including, but not limited to the repair of pavement, sinkholes and potholes, rights-of-ways, canals, roadways, solid waste disposal, sewer, stormwater repair & maintenance, parks and recreational facilities, and construction projects. This job has no supervisory responsibilities. Responsibilities and Reporting During an Emergency Situation: Essential Employees may be required to work during a declared emergency.

Depending on the nature of the emergency, this may require working around the clock for several days on short notice. Non-Essential Employees will not be required to work during a declared emergency. The employee's Department Head will determine when the employee will be required to work.

Duties/Responsibilities When Assigned to Water or Sewer, or Stormwater Distribution: Operates a vacuum / jetter truck, Valve Machine, Skidsteer, slope mower, flat deck/bush hog mower, excavator, and other essential equipment to accomplish the task. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Knowledgeable in various types of semi-skilled manual work performed in maintenance and repair of municipal storm water systems, irrigation, roadways, and/or related structures. Knowledgeable in various types of manual, gas, or diesel powered equipment employed in maintenance and repair of municipal storm water systems, irrigation, roadways, and/or related structures.

Knowledgeable in occupational safety rules, practices and personal protective equipment associated with performing duties using heavy equipment, in traffic and in adverse weather conditions. Knowledgeable in the City and State rules, regulations, and protocols. Skilled in the safe use and operation of various maintenance and repair tools and light gas or diesel powered equipment Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to adapt to performing under frequent deadlines and/or in response to emergencies. Ability to operate necessary equipment. Ability to follow both oral and written directions.

Ability to recognize and address common safety issues in the field Ability to detect improper functioning mechanical systems Ability to effectively use devices such as a computer or tablet. Minimum Requirements High School diploma or GED. One (1) year experience in the operation of equipment including, but not limited to regular boom grad-all, asphalt patch truck, small backhoe, Scatback, Flusher, sewer cleaning truck, dump truck, vacuum / jetter truck, dump truck with tandem trailer attached, flatbed, front loader, grader, or similar equipment.

Mandatory Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) Drug/Alcohol Testing required. Must possess or obtain within 12 months of hire a valid Florida Class "A" Commercial Driver's License with tanker endorsement with an acceptable driving record. Must have or obtain within 12 months of appointment Intermediate MOT certification When Assigned to Water Distribution: Must hold a State of Florida Level three (3) or higher Water Distribution System Operator License at the time of hire or be able to obtain within eighteen (18) months from date of hire

Physical Demands and Working Conditions This work typically requires the following physical activities to be performed. Balancing - maintain equilibrium to prevent falling while walking, standing, or crouching. Climbing - ascending, descending ladders, stairs, ramps, requires body agility.

Crawling - moving about on hands, knees, or hands, feet. Crouching - bending body forward by bending leg, spine. Feeling - perceiving attributes of objects by touch with skin, fingertips.

Fingering - picking, pinching, typing, working with fingers rather than hand. Grasping - applying pressure to object with fingers, palm. Handling - picking, holding, or working with whole hand.

Hearing 1 - perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, receive information. Hearing 2 - receive detailed information, make discrimination in sound. Kneeling - bending legs at knee to come to rest at knees.

Lifting - raising objects from lower to higher position, moving objects side to side, using upper extremities, back. Pushing - use upper extremities to press against objects with force, or thrust forward, downward, outward. Reaching - extending hands or arms in any direction.

Repetitive Motion - substantial movements of wrists, hands, fingers. Speaking - expressing ideas with spoken word, convey detailed, important instructions accurately, concisely. Standing - for sustained periods of time.

Stooping - bending body downward, forward at waist, with full motion of lower extremities and back. Talking 1- expressing ideas by spoken word Talking 2 - shouting to be heard above ambient noise. Visual Acuity 2 - color, depth perception, field of vision.

Visual Acuity 3 - determine accuracy, neatness, observe facilities/structures. Visual Acuity 4 - operate motor vehicles/heavy equipment. Visual Acuity 5 -close acuity for inspection of small defects, machines, use measurement devices, or fabricate parts.

Walking - on foot to accomplish tasks, long distances, or site to site. Mental Acuity - ability to make rational decisions through sound logic, deductive reasoning. Pulling - use upper extremities to exert force, haul or tug.

Work performed is primarily: Very heavy work: Exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. WORK ENVIRONMENT Tasks are performed outside, subject to weather conditions and uneven terrain, and risk of exposure to toxic agents/chemicals, pathogens, and smoke. Must have the ability to work after hours, including nights, weekends, holidays and during emergencies.

May be required to work hours other than the regular schedule including on call hours To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions described herein. Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were actually written out in this job description.