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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania

$20.10/hr

Employees who possess the following State of Florida Water Distribution Operator licenses may be eligible for additional hourly pay. * Class 1 License: + $1.50/ hour * Class 2 License: + $1.00/ hour

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$13

$26

$40

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Pennsylvania is $26.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $30.38 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 Pennsylvania?

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

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

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

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Water Distribution Operator jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Water Distribution Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,428 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

$20.10/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Sarasota County rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

573rd of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Department:

Public UtilitiesAbout Our JobAre you looking for a job where you get to work with your hands, be out in the field where you help make the lives of the community safer and cleaner. You are responsible for making repairs and improvements in the potable water distribution to provide reliable and safe water to the community.
Whether you are looking to start your career or have honed your skills and would like to join our outstanding team, apply today to take advantage of our benefits and generous pension plan!
Earn your CDL on us!
Learn as a trainee for up to 2 years or advance sooner based on your skills and proficiency.

Job Description:

Learn more about the role below:

This position is perfect if you like to get down and dirty. You'll be the emergency responders for mainline breaks. In this role, you'll repair anything from one-inch pipelines to 42-inch pipelines to fixing and installing hydrants and valves.

Pipeline Repair Crew:

  • Perform complete utility work including maintenance, repair, installation, construction, flushing, flow testing, and disinfection to the utility's potable and reclaimed water distribution systems, their appurtenances.
  • Perform complete underground utility inspection/discovery and locates and construction of the potable, air release valves, backflow prevention devices, meters, boxes and related appurtenances, including flow testing of water meters and certification of backflow prevention devices.
  • Perform right-of-way MOT and all restorations relating to complete utility maintenance and repairs.
  • Operate specialized equipment, such as vacuum trucks, sewer-flushing devices, rodding equipment, jetting equipment, television evaluation equipment, flow meters and other related equipment used in distribution and wastewater collection system maintenance.

Meter Maintenance Technician:

  • This position varies throughout multiple locations, so every day is a new adventure!
  • You'll install meters in new communities, condominium complexes, and even by our premier beaches.

Hydrant and Valve Technician:

  • Play a crucial role in the safety of our citizens and the operations of our Fire Department teams by maintaining and repairing county fire hydrant.

Working Hours:

  • Monday - Friday
  • 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
  • *On-Call Required
About Everything Else

Trainee: Starting pay at $18.09/ hour

  • High School Diploma or its equivalent

  • Valid Florida Driver's License at the time of hire

  • State of Florida Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class "A" with Tanker "N" endorsement or the ability to obtain within six (6) months from the time of hire. (Paid for by the county!)

Technician: Starting pay range of $20.10/ hour (Step 1) Potential higher pay (steps) for those with multiple years of experience.

  • High School Diploma or its equivalent

  • Valid Florida Driver's License at the time of hire

  • Two (2) years of related experience in operations, maintenance, and construction

  • State of Florida Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class "A" with Tanker "N" endorsement or the ability to obtain within six (6) months from the time of hire. (Paid for by the county!)

License Incentive Pay Opportunities:

Employees who possess the following State of Florida Water Distribution Operator licenses may be eligible for additional hourly pay.

  • Class 1 License: + $1.50/ hour
  • Class 2 License: + $1.00/ hour
  • Class 3 License: + $0.50/ hour

Physical Demands:

  • May occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 pounds.
  • Must be fit tested for a respirator. For more information on this requirement, please visit: https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2017/11/02/noshave/

Subject to Passing Substance Screening: This position is subject to passing a pre-employment substance screening. An applicant who fails to pass a required drug screening test shall be disqualified from employment for a period of five (5) years.

#SRQCountyUtilities

Employee Type:Regular (Budgeted)

Our interview process could include phone interview(s), Microsoft Teams video interview(s), and/or in-person interview(s).

If you are selected to join our team, please click on this link to review the Required First Day Documents. You will need to present the following items on your first day:

1. I-9 Acceptable Documents to show your identity and authorization to work. Use this link to learn more and review the different document options: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents

  • If your position requires a Florida Driver's License, this must be one of your documents. (Your Florida Driver's License can serve as one of your documents listed in link above - List B Documents.)

2. U.S. Social Security Card (signed, physical card). This is a requirement of our Payroll Department and failure to provide this document could jeopardize timely compensation. (Your U.S. Social Security Card can serve as one of your documents listed in link above - List C Documents.)

Benefits:

  • Enjoy great benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Florida Retirement System (FRS) and many, many more!
  • For more information about employee benefits, please click this link or visit SCGov.net for additional information.
  • Utilize our award-winning wellness program including free gyms and classes at multipleSarasota County Government locations.
  • Enjoy 11 paid holidays, 3 personal days and 16 paid vacation days in the first year of full-time employment with increasing accrual rates with years of service. (That adds up to a possible 30 days off in your 1st year!)

A different blend of voices prompt better conversations, choices and results for everyone. Sarasota County - Many Voices, One Team.

We celebrate and value the experiences, backgrounds, perspectives, talents and strengths that make us different.

Our vision is to attract, develop, retain and engage a talented workforce broadly representative of the citizens and communities we serve. To further value creativity, innovation, collaboration and great customer service - internally and externally.

A job applicant with a disability who requires reasonable accommodation to participate in the application/selection process is requested to make known the need for an accommodation to Human Resources or appropriate county staff members. For assistance with the application, please call 941-861-5353.

Sarasota County prohibits discrimination in all services, programs or activities. View the complete policy at scgov.net (keywords: ADA Compliance).

Sarasota County Government is a Tobacco-Free/Drug-Free Workplace.


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