ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

City of Katy

Water Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

Water Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water ... and distribution systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in water utility ...

City of Katy

Water Operator

Katy, TX · On-site

Water Operator - Public Works Department The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water ... and distribution systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in water utility ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Pearland, TX · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Houston, TX · On-site

$20.75 - $28.75/hr

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Pearland, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Pearland, TX · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Houston, TX · On-site

$20.75 - $28.75/hr

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Kimley-Horn

Practice Builder - Water/Wastewater

Pearland, TX · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

... and large diameter conveyance (water distribution and wastewater collection) * Has an ... Operating with integrity and sound business principles * Providing vision, business planning and ...

Wood Plc

Water/Wastewater Seller - Doer

Houston, TX · On-site

$20.75 - $28.75/hr

Primary focus for project work will be on treatment facility, water distribution system, wastewater collection system and booster/lift station design, development of design reports, construction ...

WSP

Senior Water/Wastewater Engineer-ATX

Houston, TX · On-site

Your Impact * Designing water transmissions systems and distribution systems, pumping stations ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

WSP

Senior Water/Wastewater Engineer-ATX

Houston, TX · On-site

Your Impact * Designing water transmissions systems and distribution systems, pumping stations ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Distribution Operator JobsWater Distribution Operator Jobs in Houston, TX

Water Distribution Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Houston, TX is $24.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.76 and $28.94 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.

How much does a water distribution operator make?

A water distribution operator in California typically earns an average annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

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 municipalities and utilities upgrade aging systems and require skilled workers with certifications such as Class A or B licenses. The job often involves working in outdoor environments and operating specialized equipment.

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.

Is it hard to become a water distribution operator?

Becoming a water distribution operator typically requires completing relevant training, obtaining necessary certifications such as a water distribution operator license, and gaining experience in water systems. The difficulty varies depending on local regulations and the level of certification required, but it generally involves technical knowledge, physical work, and adherence to safety standards.

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 Houston, TX? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Water Distribution Operator jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Water Distribution Operator job openings:
Water Distribution Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,852 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Water Operator

City of Katy

Katy, TX • On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Water Operator - Public Works Department
The City of Katy is seeking a dedicated and skilled Water Operator to join our Public Works team. This essential position plays a critical role in maintaining the safety, reliability, and quality of the City's water treatment and distribution systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in water utility operations, a strong commitment to public service, and the ability to perform a wide variety of maintenance, repair, and operational duties in both routine and emergency situations.
As a Water Operator, you will help ensure the continuous delivery of safe drinking water to our community by monitoring wells and treatment systems, repairing infrastructure, conducting inspections and testing, and responding to customer service needs. This position is considered essential critical infrastructure personnel and may be required to respond during emergencies, natural disasters, or catastrophic events to support the continuity of City operations.
If you are motivated, dependable, and ready to make a meaningful impact in your community, we encourage you to apply and become part of a team committed to excellence in public service.
Job Description:
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES: -- Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Monitors and maintains assigned wells; verifies wells are operating correctly; checks chlorination levels.
  • Repairs water main breaks and service lines; flushes, repairs, and replaces fire hydrants; rebuilds and repairs water meters.
  • Performs service calls to check for water leaks throughout the water system; provides aid to customers;
  • Turns water services on or off at City connections when starting and closing accounts.
  • Collects monthly required bacteriological samples; delivers samples to assigned laboratory for testing.
  • Operates water treatment plant; calculates the chlorine demand of raw ground water for proper disinfection; monitors and maintains chlorination system.
  • Gathers water usage readings for monthly billing; disconnects customers' water for non-payment of utility bills.
  • Inspects and cleans groundwater storage tanks; prepares tanks for State inspections.
  • Repairs and pours concrete driveways and sidewalks.
  • This position is considered Critical Personnel during a natural or manmade disaster and/or a catastrophic event. This position may be required to provide services or perform duties for the benefit of the public and the continuity of City operations. These may include services or duties different from those performed in the usual course and scope of this position.
  • For purposes of business continuity, employees in this position are considered Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers, as defined by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
  • Performs other duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education, Training and Experience Guidelines:
High school diploma or equivalent; AND two (2) years of water utility training and experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Knowledge of:
  • Department policies and procedures.
  • City codes and ordinances.
  • Water distribution and production systems.

Skill in:
  • Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
  • Providing quality customer service.
  • Performing basic mathematical calculations.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
  • Valid State Driver's License required; Class B Commercial Driver's License may be required.
  • Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator Class C license.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT: This position requires climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions. Exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Employee may be subjected to moving mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, fumes, odors, dusts, gases, poor ventilation, chemicals, oils, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, work space restrictions, and intense noises.
The City of Katy is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities and Amendments Act and is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply