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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Mechanic/Operator

Kansas City, KS ยท On-site

$25 - $33/hr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... distribution systems for local and remote facilities. Verify all equipment systems, pressure and ... Perform chemical analysis on boiler water samples as required. * Perform precision alignment and ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Wichita, KS

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... The employee is responsible for operating heavy equipment used for moving or grading earth ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Topeka, KS

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... The employee is responsible for operating heavy equipment used for moving or grading earth ...

Crane Operator

Wichita, KS ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... Responsible for operating a stationary or traveling crane to lift, move, position, and reposition ...

Crane Operator

Wichita, KS ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... Responsible for operating a stationary or traveling crane to lift, move, position, and reposition ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Topeka, KS ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... The employee is responsible for operating heavy equipment used for moving or grading earth ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Wichita, KS ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... The employee is responsible for operating heavy equipment used for moving or grading earth ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Wichita, KS ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... The employee is responsible for operating heavy equipment used for moving or grading earth ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Topeka, KS ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... The employee is responsible for operating heavy equipment used for moving or grading earth ...

Crane Operator

Wichita, KS ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... Responsible for operating a stationary or traveling crane to lift, move, position, and reposition ...

Crane Operator

Wichita, KS ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution. The Sherwood Companies have a proven track ... Responsible for operating a stationary or traveling crane to lift, move, position, and reposition ...

Showing results 41-60

Water Distribution Operator information

See Kansas salary details

$11

$23

$36

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Kansas is $23.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $27.02 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 Kansas?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,425 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Mechanic/Operator

vicinityenergy

Kansas City, KS โ€ข On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Summary


The Mechanic/Operator installs, repairs, operates, monitors, maintains plant equipment to ensure reliable, safe, and efficient operation of the plant systems. The systems include: chillers, high pressure boilers and auxiliary equipment using natural gas as the primary fuel source to ensure continuous reliable service of steam and chilled water to the companyโ€™s customers. This is a full-time, non-exempt, union position and reports to the Plant Manager. The compensation range for this position is $30.84-$40.42 per hour plus a 10% bonus target. This position is located in Kansas City, MO.

Responsibilitiesย 

  • Install, repair, troubleshoot, control, and maintain chillers, steam turbines, HP boilers, valves, traps, expansion joints, piping systems, auxiliary equipment, and distribution systems for local and remote facilities. Verify all equipment systems, pressure and temperatures are operating and maintained within limitations for the intended purpose.
  • Perform chemical analysis on boiler water samples as required.
  • Perform precision alignment and measurement.
  • Install mechanical seals, belts, couplings, and work with any hydraulic, pneumatic or city water system and related equipment.
  • Operate and regenerate cold-water zeolites to produce water for boiler operation.
  • Maintain logs of the various aspects of the plantโ€™s operation as required.
  • Monitor equipment, identify problem areas, and develop problem resolution for equipment failures and out of ordinary conditions. Performs trouble shooting, prepares work permits and work orders.
  • Performs inspections, predictive and preventive maintenance and repairs on equipment including maintenance on valves, pumps, turbines, chiller, distribution system equipment etc.
  • Provide on the job training to new employees.
  • Plan, schedule and implement daily activities and identify and set priorities.ย ย 
  • Communicate timely and relevant information to management, direct reports and others as situations necessitate.ย 
  • Ensure task completion, operation efficiency and reliability for unit and corporate goals attainment.ย 
  • Lock out equipment for maintenance, unlocks equipment and tests equipment after completion of repair following established Lock Out/Tag Out Permit Procedures.ย 
  • Monitor and maintain the cleanliness of the plant and equipment.
  • Perform all work in accordance with established safety procedures.ย 
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures and adhere to company standards.
  • Perform any other duties and tasks as assigned by Supervisor.ย 
  • Must be willing and able to work rotating shifts that include holidays, nights, and weekends.ย ย 

Basic Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in pipe fitting along with steam plant maintenance of boilers, turbines, pumps, valves, and traps.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Navy nuclear experience.
  • Technical trade school training.
  • Ability to use computer and calculator.ย 
  • Ability to meet highest punctuality and attendance requirements.
  • Ability to weld and pass site welding exam.
  • Boiler or power plant experience.
  • Chiller / chilled water system experience.
  • Proficiency with rigging and hoisting, welding, cutting, brazing, and pipe fitting.

Other Qualifications

โ€ขย Will be required to obtain a Kansas City Operating Engineers License within 3 years of starting employment.

Physical Requirementsย 

  • Must possess a valid driver license in good standing in order to operate a company vehicle. Must have and maintain a driving record meeting the standards of the company.
  • Standing, sitting, climbing stairs, bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, walking on uneven surfaces, and grating, working from elevated platforms, scaffolding or ladders, required to lift up to and including 50 pounds and maneuver approximately 100 pounds.
  • Must qualify to wear a respirator.
  • Ability to tolerate confined spaces, including manholes and varying temperatures and weather conditions.
  • Exposure to temperature extremes, high noise level areas, high pressure steam lines, rotating equipment, and dusty/dirty environment.ย 
  • Required to wear PPE such as hard hat, safety glasses, safety shoes, hearing protection and other protective gear as required.

Benefits

  • Personal Leaveย 
    • FMLA up to 12 weeks based on approval
    • Nonpaid benefit
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
    • 120 hours accrued annually which equals 4.62 hours per pay period
  • Sick Leave
    • 40 hours per calendar year prorated based on month of hire
  • Paid Parental Leave
    • 100% pay up to 160 hours upon birth or adoption of a child; must be used in weekly increments
  • 7 paid holidays annually
  • Floating holidays
    • 40 hours per calendar year prorated based on month of hire
  • 401K plan
    • Including Roth option with matching contributions: 100% of first 1% your contributions and 50% of the next 5% of your contributions.
  • Education assistance program
    • Reimbursement for continuing education, certification, licensure, and obtaining higher education degrees after completion of 90 days of employment