1

Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Certified Water Operator (CWO), OSHA 30 Certification , Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Certification , Water Distribution Operator Certification Experience:Minimum of 4-6 years of ...

HVAC/R Supervisor

Muncie, IN · On-site

$72K - $75K/yr

... operating at or below 15 psi; high pressure steam generation and distribution remain the responsibility of the Heat Plant and District Energy Station classifications. Water treatment and water ...

Water Laborer

Danville, IN

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

... and distribution. Assist with, as required, ensuring compliance to meet or exceed EPA, Safe ... operating practices, water storage, and treatment principles. Assist with implementing and ...

Water Laborer

Danville, IN · On-site

$22.67 - $30.34/hr

... and distribution. Assist with, as required, ensuring compliance to meet or exceed EPA, Safe ... operating practices, water storage, and treatment principles. Assist with implementing and ...

... operating units, and managing and meeting performance targets * Distribution System Large (DSL) and/or WT3 license(s) preferred * Automatic Shut-Off (ASO) license preferred Join American Water... We ...

New

... for water distribution and waste water disposal in the facility. The Plumber II works in ... Maintains vehicle, tools and equipment to ensure availability in safe operating condition. * May ...

... for water distribution and waste water disposal in the facility. The Plumber II works in ... Maintains vehicle, tools and equipment to ensure availability in safe operating condition. * May ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Water Distribution Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Indiana is $24.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $28.80 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.

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 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 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 utilities seek skilled workers to operate and maintain water systems, often requiring certifications and technical knowledge.

How much does a water distribution operator make?

The average salary for a water distribution operator in California ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Is it hard to become a water distribution operator?

Becoming a water distribution operator typically requires completing relevant training, obtaining a state certification or license, and gaining experience in water systems. The difficulty varies depending on local requirements and the level of technical knowledge needed, but it generally involves passing exams and demonstrating practical skills. Strong attention to detail and understanding of safety protocols are also important for success in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Water Distribution Operator jobs in Indiana?

For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,667 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Water Distribution System Operator

Lebanon Utilities

Lebanon, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

The mission of Lebanon Utilities is to provide our community with reliable, economical and high quality services in a friendly and courteous manner.
What we are proud to offer you:
  • Health Insurance (begins first day of employment)
  • Retirement
  • Health Savings Account
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • STD, LTD
  • Term & Accidental Life
  • PTO
  • Sick Leave
  • Floating Holidays
  • Paid Holidays
  • Continuing Education Benefits

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Operates various trucks, equipment, power tools, hand tools, and diagnostic devices to maintain and repair water distribution lines and all related equipment. Such as service trucks, dump truck, backhoe, tow behind vacuum, gas/electric/air power tools, shovels, masonry tools, and carpentry tools.
  1. Installs, performs maintenance, and repairs the water distribution system pipes, hydrants, valves, air release valves, and other related equipment.
  2. Installs, performs maintenance, and repairs water service connections.
  3. Utilize leak detection equipment for both pinpointing visible leaks and surveying in the water system to find non-surfacing leaks.
  4. Modify water system by making hot taps, installing hydra stops, and inserta-valves.
  5. Perform maintenance and repairs of various components of the water treatment plants and the water towers.
  6. Perform flushing of water mains in the distribution system.
  7. Inspects both new installation of water mains and laterals in the distribution system to confirm they meet City of Lebanon Standards.
  8. Periodically assists in cleaning and maintaining vehicles, equipment, and work space such as washing, lubricating, checking fluid levels, changing oil and filters.
  9. Complies with safety procedures established by regulatory agencies to ensure the protection of all workers.
  10. Complies with safe and manageable traffic control procedures for all work in public rights-of-way.
  11. Periodically assists with flagging and traffic control in work zones.
  12. Answers questions and provides information to the public at work sites as needed.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Utility, construction, or other related work experience preferred.
  • Ability to work in extreme weather conditions.
  • Working knowledge of and ability to make practical application of department safety policies and procedures, and ability to properly operate a various trucks, tools, and equipment.
  • Ability to physically perform assigned duties including: far vision, depth perception, hearing, communicating, handling, grasping objects, standing, kneeling for long periods, walking on uneven terrain, pushing, pulling, lifting, carrying objects weighing more than 50 pounds, reaching, bending, and crouching.
  • Working knowledge of local geography and ability to read and interpret local maps.
  • Ability to work alone and with others in a team environment, and maintain appropriate, respectful interrelationships with co-workers.
  • Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions/directions, and appropriately respond to constructive criticism.
  • Ability to comply with all employer/department personnel policies and work rules, including attendance, safety, drug-free workplace, and personal conduct.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with co-workers and the public, including being sensitive to professional ethics, gender, cultural diversities and disabilities.
  • Ability to competently serve the public with diplomacy and respect, including occasional encounters with irate and hostile persons.
  • Ability to occasionally work extended, weekend and/or evening hours.
  • Ability to regularly serve on 24-hour call and respond swiftly, rationally and decisively to emergency situations.
  • Possession of a valid Indiana Class B, with air brakes minimum, commercial driver's license and demonstrated safe driving record.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.