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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Fairfax Water

Water Utility Worker I - TEMP

Fairfax, VA

$44K - $61K/yr

... of the water distribution and transmission system and related facilities. Examples of Duties ... Operating a dump truck, tag along trailer and transporting construction equipment and necessary ...

City Of Arlington

$25.02 - $31.27/hr

Possession of a Class C Water Distribution Operator's License. * High School diploma or GED * Two years vocational/technical school in plumbing or related field. * Two years' experience in water ...

Command Holdings

Water Instructor

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

Quattro Consulting, an operating firm of Command Holdings, is seeking a Water Instructor to support ... distribution mission. The training is primarily resident training at FT Story, VA. Both MTT and ...

City Of Arlington

$23.40 - $29.25/hr

Possession of a Class C TCEQ Water Distribution Operator License and the ability to obtain a Class B with 6 months. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Require d: * Knowledge of ...

City Of Arlington

$20.67 - $25.84/hr

Possession of or ability to obtain Class C Water Distribution Operator's License within 18 months. * High School Diploma/GED. * One year of mechanical experience * OR any equivalent combination of ...

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All JobsWater Distribution Operator JobsWater Distribution Operator Jobs in Virginia

Water Distribution Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Virginia is $25.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.48 and $30.05 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 Virginia? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Virginia are:
Water Distribution Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,832 per year, or $25.9 per hour.
Equipment Operator III - Water Distribution

Equipment Operator III - Water Distribution

City of Norfolk

Norfolk, VA

$46K - $53K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description The City of Norfolk's Department of Utilities is seeking qualified applicants for an Equipment Operator III in our Water Distribution Division. The person in this role will be responsible for driving various types of equipment to and from job sites, transporting crew, and doing routine maintenance on vehicles. Essential Functions The essential functions of this position includes but are not limited to: Operates construction and system maintenance equipment such as backhoes, excavators, trenchers, and dump trucks.

Transports heavy equipment, supplies, and materials to job sites. Performs safety checks, maintenance, and minor repairs on equipment and tools. Assists with loading/unloading materials, job site tasks, and maintaining clean equipment and work areas.

Lifts up to 75 lbs., climbs, stands, pulls, bends, stoops throughout portions of the work day. May be required to assist workers Education/Experience Work requires knowledge necessary to understand basic operational, technical, or office processes. Level of knowledge equivalent to four years of high school or equivalency

Two years experience as an Equipment Operator. Underground utility system experience highly preferred. Valid driver's license; depending on assignment, valid CDL Driver's License - Tanker Endorsement ; Sprayer Technician or CPR certification may be required.

The desired candidate will possess a Class A CDL. Additional Information & Requirements Pre-employment testing on the operation of a backhoe may be required. Work Location: Combined Operations: 1316 Ballentine Blvd.

Work Hours: Monday - Friday; 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This position is designated as an 'Essential' position and you may be required to work extended, rotating, on call, nights, weekends, and/or holidays in response to emergencies or severe weather.

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