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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Monitors water distribution cycle and water treatment. * Monitors the steam cycle and distribution system. * Responsible for reporting or correcting mechanical problems of unusual operating ...

UTILITY PERSON

Temperance, MI · On-site

$24.86/hr

This job requires knowledge of water distribution. Duties may include: * Operate tapping machine to ... operating equipment. * Service requests as related to meters (such as repairs, replacement ...

Industrial Process Water/Wastewater Leader

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

Strong technical background and experience in designing water distribution systems * Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, MicroStation and hydraulic modeling software * Project Engineering and Project ...

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$22

$35

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Michigan is $22.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $26.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Water Distribution Operators?

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 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.

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 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 Michigan? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Michigan are:
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,325 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Water Distribution Operator Trainee

Water Distribution Operator Trainee

City of Flint

Flint, MI

$17.50 - $19.92/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Pre-Employment Requirements Employment is contingent upon successful completion of all applicable pre-employment screenings and verification of eligibility to work in the United States, in accordance with applicable laws, civil service rules, and collective bargaining agreements. GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES Under an on-the-job training program with close supervision installs, maintains and repairs water mains, valves, meters, hydrants and other appurtenances of the water supply system; performs related work as required. As the training progresses, supervision may be proportionately decreased and the responsibility of assignments increased.

After completion of 2080 paid working hours, not including overtime, of on-the-job training, in the Water Service Center Division, the training period will be considered complete and the employee eligible for examination for promotion to Water Distribution Operator. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Installs water mains and new service lines; inserts tapping valves for new mains and service lines. Lays and repairs water mains; repairs gate valves; installs, repairs and tests fire hydrants; constructs and repairs wells on line gates.

Installs service connections, including tapping water main and laying service pipe; connects and disconnects shut-off valves and stop box; digs and back-fills trenches; locates and digs up curb boxes as necessary; thaws frozen lines in winter. Caulks joints, cuts pipe, cuts out broken pipe, puts on sleeves, shuts off gate valves, repairs stuffing boxes. Installs and removes consumer water meters.

Performs water turn on and offs. Operates equipment such as air compressors, valve turning or other equipment associated with water distribution and repair. Drives utility dump trucks or other vehicles; orders materials; makes out simple reports on work performed and materials used.

May work with one or more Water Service Center employees. May clean and repack water meters and/or be assigned duties in the stockroom. May be required to perform duties in Sewer Operations.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS Ability to communicate orally and carry out oral instructions. Skill in the use of the more common shop tools. Ability to perform manual labor for extended periods under unfavorable climatic conditions or in mud or water.

Mechanical aptitude. Ability to meet the physical, mental and visual standards of the job. Ability and willingness to work in a manner that will not needlessly endanger the safety to one's self, other persons and equipment.

Underground excavation and heavy equipment experience preferred. NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession and maintenance of a valid Driver's License. Ability to obtain a commercial learners permit (CLP) within 30 days of date of hire.

Ability to obtain a CDL B license within 90 days of date of hire. Ability to obtain an N endorsement within 90 days of date of hire. *IMPORTANT - Failure to obtain the above requirements within the timelines could lead to termination of position.

Progression in the training series to Senior Operator level is required to remain in the program. Must make continuous satisfactory progress in the training program including promotion to Operator within twelve (12) months to remain employed in the series. Operational knowledge and training progress will be assessed periodically by WSC supervision.

Employee must successfully complete six (6) month probationary period. Driving Record Requirement Applicants must have a safe and responsible driving record. Candidates will not be considered if they have multiple accidents, excessive violations, a current suspension or disqualification, or a major violation (DUI, reckless driving, vehicular homicide, or endangerment) within the past seven (7) years.

Employees hired by the City must maintain residency as follows: Exempt - within 25 miles of the nearest boundary of the City of Flint. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in outside weather conditions. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, traffic, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, and vibration.

The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear; and smell. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. You must meet the minimum entrance requirements and attach supporting documentation to be considered for employment. Failure to supply required documentation (i.e

Transcripts, Driver's License, incomplete application) will result in disqualification for consideration. Employees hired by the City must maintain residency as follows: Local 1600 - within 20 miles of the nearest boundary of the City of Flint. Please be sure to complete the application in full.

Resumes may be uploaded with your application, but will not be accepted in lieu of a fully completed application and will not be considered for qualifying credit. "See Resume" or "See Attachment" will NOT be accepted. The job description does not constitute an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills.

It is also not an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The City of Flint is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Notice Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to participate in the hiring or selection process should contact the Human Resources Department.