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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

Louisiana Bridge Builders

Water Truck Driver I

Lake Charles, LA · On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

This position ensures consistent water distribution to meet project specifications while adhering ... operating commercial vehicles, ideally within roadway, bridge, or civil construction environments ...

City of Shreveport, LA

Operator

LA · On-site

$2.9K - $4.6K/mo

... Water Distribution Certificates issued by the State of Louisiana, Dept. of Health and Hospitals within 3 years. Normal Promotion Path from this Class: Senior Operator or any higher class for which ...

City of Shreveport

Operator

Shreveport, LA

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

... Water Distribution Certificates issued by the State of Louisiana, Dept. of Health and Hospitals within 3 years. Normal Promotion Path from this Class: Senior Operator or any higher class for which ...

City of Shreveport

ADMIN ASSISTANT

Shreveport, LA · On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

... duties tending/operating personal computers (PC's). 9. May supervise activities of employees ... Water Distribution and Wastewater Collection Certificates issued by the State of Louisiana, Dept. ...

City of Shreveport, LA

Cr. Chief Sup

LA · On-site

$4.2K - $6.5K/mo

... Operator's License. 4). Amiss Plant Assignment - Possession of valid Class 4 Water Production, Water Treatment and Water Distribution Certificates issued by the State of Louisiana, Dept. of Health ...

City of Shreveport

Cr. Chief Sup

Shreveport, LA

... Operator's License. 4). Amiss Plant Assignment - Possession of valid Class 4 Water Production, Water Treatment and Water Distribution Certificates issued by the State of Louisiana, Dept. of Health ...

City of Shreveport

Maintenance Specialist II

Shreveport, LA

$16.75 - $23/hr

... Operator's License with class applicable to assigned position. 3). Three years experience as a ... Water Distribution Certificates issued by the State of Louisiana, Dept. of Health and Hospitals ...

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Louisiana salary details

$11

$22

$34

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Louisiana is $22.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $25.91 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 Louisiana?

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

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

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

Water Distribution Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,431 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Equipment Operator III, Water Distribution

City of Alexandria, LA

Alexandria, LA

$39K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

454th of 849 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary : $39,855.19 Annually Location : Alexandria, Louisiana Job Type: Classified Division: Utilities Department: Water Distribution Opening Date: 05/13/2026 Closing Date: Continuous FLSA: Non-Exempt SELECT THE TEXT MESSAGE OPTION TO RECEIVE APPLICATION UPDATES BY TEXT. After your account has been established, you can upload documents from a saved document on your computer or manually enter your personal information. This application will be saved and used to apply for future job openings. YOU MUST UPDATE ANY NEW EMPLOYMENT HISTORY WHEN YOU APPLY FOR NEW JOBS. Description The purpose of this classification is to operate heavy equipment and perform manual work functions associated with construction, maintenance and repair of City streets/roads, drainage systems, right-of-way areas, parking lots, parks, recreation facilities, grounds areas, utility systems, or other areas of assignment. Emphasis is on the operation of track or rubber-tired construction equipment with specialized functions related to maintenance and construction activities where the operation of complex mechanisms requires the highest degree of skill, dexterity, and finesse, and where work is performed to exacting tolerances; incumbents may function as lead worker on occasion as needed. Classification is reserved for those positions where operation of included equipment is the primary function of the job. Examples of Duties
  • Operates excavator, track hoe, and backhoe to perform skilled digging and trenching for maintenance, upkeep, and construction projects for public utilities and other infrastructure, where exacting tolerances and specifications are required; controls placement of equipment and determines optimum approach to each digging scenario to minimize destruction of property and avoid electric, water, sewer, and other public utility lines.
  • Operates motor-grader, scraper, and excavator with blade attachment to set gradients for large construction and maintenance projects such as roads, landscaping, embankments, and other projects requiring exacting specifications related to slope, angle, and pitch; determines appropriate settings and adjusts blades for height, angle, and pitch to achieve desired outcome; maneuvers equipment and operates mechanisms to skillfully set gradient, smooth surfaces, and spread materials.
  • Responds to emergency calls during inclement weather or other emergencies.
  • Performance testing will be operating a mini excavator.
Typical Qualifications High school diploma or GED; Two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in the operation of heavy equipment used in roadway repair, maintenance and installation of utility infrastructure (water, wastewater, gas, and electric), or similar work; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Must possess and maintain a valid Class B commercial driver's license, and any state or federal certifications required in the field of assignment. Will be required to obtain a valid State of Louisiana Class B commercial driver's license at time of appointment and maintain throughout employment for this classification. Assignment on some equipment may require a valid State of Louisiana Class A commercial driver's license and/or special endorsements. May be required to obtain Flagging certification.
  • Must possess a valid Class A commercial driver's license.
Water Department will be required to obtain a HAZMAT endorsement within forty-five (45) days of appointment and maintain throughout employment for this classification. Supplemental Information Applicants must supply complete and accurate information concerning their previous training and experience including a detailed description of their work experience, the names and addresses of all previous employers and the dates of employment. The information is subject to verification. Examination may consist of a written test, a rating of training and experience, a performance test or any combination thereof deemed necessary to adequately screen and rank applicants.Examination notices will be sent out via email with a testing date, time, and location if applicable. ** If you prefer to receive text messages regarding your application update, please include a current cell phone number on your application.** Must include copies of driver's license, diploma, GED, DD214, degree, etc. with application for consideration. The City of Alexandria is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, sex, color, religion, national origin, or disability. We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees, including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, sick leave, and a wellness clinic for employees. To learn more details, visit our 01 Do you possess a CDL-A?
  • Yes
  • No
02 If yes, can you operate a Mini Excavator?
  • Yes
  • No
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