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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Clarion Water Distribution System - ISG provided a comprehensive WaterCAD Distribution System Modeling and Preliminary Engineering Report identifying critical improvements needed to the City of ...

... and water distribution system monitoring and rehabilitation and industrial pre-treatment. This ... It's your chance to join one of the country's longest operating engineering firms and a leader in ...

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Iowa is $24.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $28.46 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 Iowa? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,000 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Water Treatment Plant Operator

US Water Services Corporation

Fort Dodge, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

U.S. Water Services Corporation is a well-established and diverse water and wastewater utility organization specializing in utility maintenance, operations, engineering and construction services. U.S. Water is a fast paced and rapidly expanding company headquartered in New Port Richey, Florida with a staff of over 950 employees in twenty states.


GENERAL PURPOSE

The Drinking Water Plant Operator operates and maintains water treatment, processing, and testing equipment in a water treatment facility to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements. Troubleshoots and diagnoses operational problems and takes corrective action per procedure and process knowledge. Monitors flow meters, gauges, flow ratios, pressures and related controls through instrument panels and programmable logic control units in assigned areas. Monitors and records operating conditions observations and data in area shift log. Ensures conformance to process specifications. Verifies and reports suspected malfunctions and variances to the supervisor. Performs routine and preventative maintenance and maintenance related items as assigned. Performs field laboratory tests (chemical and physical) in order to pace chemical dosages for efficient process control. Ensure that all safety and environmental requirements are consistently achieved including strict compliance.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Valid Iowa DNR Water License Grade 2 or higher
  • Valid Iowa driver's license
  • Must have previous maintenance experience

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Performs all operations and maintenance procedures.
  • Participates in complex and technical maintenance and repair tasks.
  • Monitors and adjusts the operation of water plant pumps, motors, and other equipment.
  • Accurately reads gauges, dials and other instruments that depict and/or record data. Services, maintains, and repairs a variety of water system equipment, including pumps, valves, motors, filters, and meters.
  • Inspects water system equipment and facilities to locate needed repairs, and makes repairs to various water system equipment as required.
  • Inspects and maintains water distribution facilities.
  • Assists in the training of other water department personnel.
  • Collects samples and assists in conducting a variety of chemical and physical tests.
  • Maintains clear and concise logs and records. Inspects water sources and water storage tanks.
  • Inspects, services and replaces meters, fittings, and meter boxes.
  • Operates a front-end loader and other vehicles.
  • Maintains all log books, records, and reports required by various laws and permits, as well as those necessary for efficient operation.
  • Performs general plant maintenance work such as sweeping, cleaning, painting, and landscaping.
  • May reads water meters.
  • Coordinates with other company departments for assistance or repair, and as necessary.
  • May be responsible for the ordering, storage and use of supplies needed for general operation of a water plant and outlying system responsibilities and their inventory.
  • Maintains a good relationship with the public and responds to complaints regarding operations. Regular and timely attendance.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

(A) Must have an active Iowa DNR Water Operator's License Grade 2 at a minimum; and (B) One (1) years of experience relating to the construction, repair, and maintenance of water collection or treatment systems including the operation of related maintenance equipment, or (C) Any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: (A) Thorough knowledge of equipment, facilities, materials, methods and procedures used in water collection and treatment systems; Considerable knowledge of water pipe installation, connection, and repair; Considerable knowledge of water treatment plant operation and maintenance. (B) Skill in the operation of the listed tools and equipment. (C) Ability to interpret specific chemical and biological analyses; Ability to guide, direct and motivate employees; Ability to organize and supervise the activities of various crews performing construction and maintenance work; Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other departments and the public.


TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED

Detection devices, mobile radio/phone, a personal computer (may include word processing, excel, and other software), copier and fax machine.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and smell.


Compensation and Benefits: Pay is commensurate with experience and market-reflective. US Water/USW Utility Group offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, paid time off, holiday pay and 401(k) with company match.

US Water/USW Utility Group offers competitive wages and benefits and is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.


Job Posted by ApplicantPro