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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

City of Kansas City Missouri

Senior Project Engineer

Kansas City, MO · Hybrid

$5.7K - $8.8K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The department is responsible for maintaining and operating extensive systems for water collection, treatment, and distribution, serving more than 170,000 residential and business customers, as well ...

City of Kansas City Missouri

Senior Project Engineer

Kansas City, MO · Hybrid

$5.7K - $8.8K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The department is responsible for maintaining and operating extensive systems for water collection, treatment, and distribution, serving more than 170,000 residential and business customers, as well ...

City of Kansas City Missouri

Water Servicer

Kansas City, MO

$22.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The department is responsible for maintaining and operating extensive systems for water collection, treatment, and distribution, serving more than 170,000 residential and business customers, as well ...

City of Kansas City Missouri

Water Servicer

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$22.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The department is responsible for maintaining and operating extensive systems for water collection, treatment, and distribution, serving more than 170,000 residential and business customers, as well ...

City of Belton

Wastewater Plant Operator

Belton, MO · On-site

$22.64/hr

... water and pollution control properties; joint sewer and water station checks on weekends and ... Distribution System Operator III License, and Voluntary Collection Systems Certificate may be ...

City of Belton

Wastewater Plant Operator

Belton, MO · On-site

... water and pollution control properties; joint sewer and water station checks on weekends and ... Distribution System Operator III License, and Voluntary Collection Systems Certificate may be ...

City of St. Peters

UTILITY OPERATOR

Saint Peters, MO · On-site

$27.37 - $31.71/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Utility Operator , you will play an essential role in ensuring safe and efficient water and ... Monitor and control water treatment, distribution, and wastewater systems. * Conduct sample ...

University of Missouri

Steam Plant Operator I

Columbia, MO · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... water, and electricity to heat, cool, and energize more than 17 million square feet of academic ... With more than 100 miles of underground utility distribution systems beneath the campus, Utility ...

City of St. Peters

UTILITY PLANT OPERATOR

Saint Peters, MO · On-site

$27.37 - $31.71/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Utility Operator, you will play an essential role in ensuring safe and efficient water and ... Monitor and control water treatment, distribution, and wastewater systems.Conduct sample collection ...

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Missouri salary details

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$24

$38

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Missouri is $24.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $28.41 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 Missouri?

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

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

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

Water Distribution Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,931 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Inflow & Infiltration Water Technician

City of St. Robert

Saint Robert, MO • On-site

$18.23 - $19.78/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

GENERAL PURPOSE OF POSITION:
Under limited supervision, perform inspections, test and studies to locate, identify and repair defects and sources of inflow and infiltration into the sanitary sewer system.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Perform Inspections
  • Operate the closed-circuit television truck, camera crawler and lateral camera to inspect sewer collection mains and lateral lines
  • Inspect, analyze and detect leaks, cracks and other defects in sanitary sewer lines, lift stations, and service lines being put in by contractors
  • Determine the condition of pipe joints, note location of any damaged pipe
  • Check to make sure all seals are tight in manholes, wet wells and pipes
  • Create reports regarding inflows and infiltration for supervisor
  • Schedule work orders to be accomplished
  • Schedule work orders in accordance with the maintenance schedule
  • Time work to be done with contractor's schedule
  • Assures copies of actual work orders are filed according to procedure

Perform Maintenance Duties:
  • Clean manholes, sewer mains and wet wells
  • Perform manhole and pipe line inspections
  • Perform smoke and dye testing of sewer system in order to detect defects and sources of inflow and infiltration and accurately documents findings
  • Install manhole inserts
  • On call for twenty-four hours a day seven-day period for the Wastewater Collection Department

Troubleshoot Controls:
  • Maintain, repair and conduct routine repairs on mechanical, electrical and electronic equipment such as generators, pressure gauges, television equipment and circuitry associated with the televising and repair equipment

Repair Taps and System Mains:
  • Dig up existing sewer mains and taps for service lines
  • Repair sewer mains by removing and replacing procedures or trenchless pipe patch repair
  • Set manholes, wet wells, and lay pipe in ditches

System Planning:
  • Inspect all work to make sure it is done according to specifications and regulations
  • Provide material list for contractors

Locate Mains:
  • Obtain request for information
  • Research to find appropriate answer
  • Report answer to proper personnel
  • Use maps and locators to locate mains
  • Complete work order and work log entries

Operate Equipment:
  • Use basic hand tools
  • Use Gas Detector for checking sewer gases in manholes and buildings
  • Utilize Volt and Amp meters to troubleshoot controls
  • Use vactor flusher to clean and maintain sewer lines, manholes, and wet wells, determining the correct hose to use, operating hose to clean pipe, maintaining appropriate water pressure, and checking to assure lines are clean
  • Utilize Pipe Laser for installing new mains
  • Use transit to determine elevations for lines, manholes, and wet wells
  • Operate jackhammer and dump truck for cutting roads and clearing rock out of ditches
  • Operate closed-circuit television truck and smoke testing equipment to inspect, analyze, and repair defects in the Wastewater Collection System

Assist with other Departments:
  • Perform duties with other departments when needed
  • Use small crane for lifting motors
  • Perform taps and work main breaks with the Water and Gas Departments
  • Help with power outages and clearing lines with the Electrical Department
  • Help in snow removal and patching roads with the Street Department

Performs duties as directed
JOB CONTEXT:
The Inflow and Infiltration Technician is a full-time, permanent position in the Water and Wastewater Department. The immediate supervisor for this position is the Water
/Wastewater Supervisor. The person in this position is supervised daily, primarily for
reporting purposes. The person in this position works regular hours most of the time. The person in this position works overtime or at night only in the event of an emergency or to assist other departments. There is no shift work associated with this position. The person in this position is on call on a rotational basis. 10% of the work done in this position is done indoors; 90% of the work is done outdoors in all types of weather conditions.
There is exposure to chemicals and/or hazardous materials in this position such as weed killer, raw sewage, sewer gas, gasoline diesel fuel, cleaners, bleach, and paint on a regular basis. The stress level associated with this position is average. Physical work consists of, but is not limited to, digging, climbing, crawling, bending, and carrying equipment and supplies, shoveling, operating a jackhammer, and standing for a long period of time.
LICENSE AND CERTIFICATIONS:
The person in this position must have and maintain a valid Commercial Driver's
License, and obtain and maintain a Missouri Wastewater Operator certification or be able to obtain within 1 year of employment.
National Association of sewer service companies (NASSCO) certification; pipeline assessment and certification program (PACP), Water Operators certification and a Water
Distribution certification is preferred.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
The person in this position must have a high school diploma or its equivalent. At least two to three years of work experience in inflow and infiltration field or related water and wastewater systems along with any combination of the following knowledge, skills and abilities
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge:
  • Knowledge of the principles, practices, procedures and equipment used in maintaining and repairing sewer systems
  • Knowledge of the proper procedures for operating, inspecting and maintaining assigned equipment
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards, safety precautions and regulations related to equipment operation
  • General construction work
  • Traffic laws and regulations governing the operation of equipment
  • Ability to read and interpret a variety of maps, plans, construction diagrams, blueprints and survey data
  • Federal and State regulations and laws governing water and sewer systems
  • Operation of wastewater systems
  • Proper installation, maintenance and repair of sewer and water pumps
  • Proper storage and use of various chemicals and herbicides Safety
  • Proper use and basic maintenance of heavy equipment, including backhoe, dump trucks and water jet truck
  • Lift station operations and maintenance
  • Basic principles and procedures of electrical work
  • Basic carpentry work
  • Maintenance and repair of all types of equipment
  • Proper grammar and the use of English in speaking and writing
  • Computer operations and applications, including word processing and spreadsheets
  • OSHA standards and regulations concerning employee safety
  • Federal and state statues concerning the work of the department
  • Mathematical skills, including addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication
  • General functions and operations of municipal government

Skills and Abilities:
  • Manage and plan many activities at one time
  • Develop and maintain cooperative and professional relationships with citizens, employees, managers and representatives from other department and organizations
  • Maintain working relationships with contractors and suppliers
  • Prioritize equipment and material needed for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management
  • Ability to listen and understand directions, information and ideas presented verbally and in writing
  • Measure chemicals accurately
  • Complete required reports on a timely basis
  • Diagnose problems within the sewer, and wastewater systems
  • Apply appropriate solutions to problems
  • Accurately locate buried sewer lines
  • Operate equipment properly
  • Maintain equipment and vehicles
  • Examine equipment and determine what is causing a problem
  • Complete all required paperwork
  • Prioritize daily work flow
  • Work as a team member with other employees
  • Work autonomously when necessary
  • Handle multiple tasks simultaneously with frequent interruptions
  • Maintain professional composure in heated situations
  • Follow Departmental and City policies and procedures

Certain duties of this position are classified as "safety-sensitive." Therefore, the person in this position will be subject to mandatory testing for drugs and/or alcohol on a random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, return-to-duty, and follow-up basis in accordance with the City's
Alcohol & Controlled Substance Use, Abuse and Testing Policy.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and employee will also perform other
reasonable related business duties as assigned by Department Head as required. This job description is an "at-will" position and does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Retirement plan
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

Work Location: Multiple locations

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