ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Sherwood Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Topeka, KS · On-site

... 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 ...

Sherwood Companies

Crane Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

... 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 ...

Wildcat Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

... 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 ...

Wildcat Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Topeka, KS · On-site

... 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 ...

Sherwood Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Topeka, KS · On-site

... 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 ...

Sherwood Companies

Crane Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

... 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 ...

Wildcat Companies

Crane Operator

Wichita, KS · On-site

... 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 ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsWater Distribution Operator JobsWater Distribution Operator Jobs in Kansas

Water Distribution Operator information

See Kansas salary details

$11

$23

$36

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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.

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 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:

Water Distribution Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% 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.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Sherwood Companies

Wichita, KS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Sherwood Companies rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Wildcat has the ability to self-perform many types of civil construction including earthwork and site prep, concrete and asphalt paving, civil and structural concrete, rock excavation, piling and sheet piling, sub-grade stabilization, and water/waste-water treatment facilities. We also have a tremendous amount of experience with all underground utilities including sanitary sewer, water, storm sewer, and main electrical distribution.

The Sherwood Companies have a proven track record of completing a variety of projects from General Construction, to Construction Management and Design Build Projects for both public and private owners. A brief summary of the types of projects include, urban expressways, bridges, underground utilities, dam construction, asphalt/concrete paving and water/wastewater treatment plants. 

JOB DESCRIPTION

The employee is responsible for operating heavy equipment used for moving or grading earth, applying concrete, asphalt or other materials to road beds or equipment used for tamping gravel, dirt or other materials. The incumbent will need to operate in a safe and efficient manner following all personal protective equipment (PPE) and process requirements. Travel may be required.

BENEFITS

  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Accident and Cancer Insurance
  • Short-term and Long-term disability
  • 401(k) with match
  • Yearly boot reimbursement
  •  Referral bonus program

ACTIVITIES/TASKS/SCOPE

  • Keep work area clean, orderly and safe
  • Could operate graders, roller, booms, dozers, scrapers, blades, loaders, etc. to move and grade earth
  • Move levers, depress foot pedals and turn dials to operate power machinery, such as power shovels, stripping shovels, scraper loaders or backhoes
  • Perform minor maintenance and adjustments on equipment
  • Understand the use of equipment in various jobs such as: trenching, excavating, loading, leveling, rough grading and finishing
  • Become familiar with digging plans and with efficient and safe digging procedures
  • Observe hand signals, grade stakes or other markings when operating machines to work can be performed to specifications
  • Operate machinery to perform activities such as backfilling excavations, vibrating or breaking rock or concrete
  • Move materials over short distances
  • Other duties as assigned

INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTOR COMPETENCIES

  • Work Standards
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Initiating Action
  • Adaptability
  • Contributing to Team Success
  • Managing Work (Time Management)
  • Communication

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

  • High School or Degree or GED required
  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • 2-3 years of experience of heavy equipment operation in heavy highway or farm experience preferred

CERTIFICATION/OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Mechanical knowledge of machines and tools
  • Mathematics
  • Operation monitoring
  • Control precision
  • Depth perception
  • Manual dexterity
  • Reaction time
  • Coordination

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described below 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.

  • Ability to stand, walk, sit, stoop, bend, walk, climb ladders, reach, grasp, push/pull, twist, and lift heavy objects (50 lbs.)
  • Safe negotiation of uneven terrain in various weather conditions
  • Ability to handle a large volume of work and perform multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to effectively verbally communicate, see close and at distances, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Work is performed in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to outdoor elements.

What Sherwood Companies employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply