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

Water/Wastewater Seller - Doer

Houston, TX ยท 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 ...

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.

Water & Wastewater Operator

Spring, TX ยท On-site

$19.25 - $26.75/hr

H2O Innovation is seeking a new Water & Wastewater Operator to join our team in the Houston, TX ... Conduct regular inspections of the collection and distribution systems as well as the treatment ...

Water & Wastewater Operator

Cypress, TX ยท On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

H2O Innovation is seeking a new Water & Wastewater Operator to join our team in the Houston, TX ... Conduct regular inspections of the collection and distribution systems as well as the treatment ...

Water Utility Technician

Katy, TX ยท On-site

$21.77 - $27.22/hr

... 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 ...

Lead Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

... plants, and water distribution systems. You will be working side-by-side with a team of ... Acts as technical expert on assigned projects when operating as an individual contributor, and acts ...

Showing results 21-40

Water Distribution Operator information

See Houston, TX salary details

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$24

$38

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 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.

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 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:

Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 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/Wastewater Seller - Doer

Wood Plc

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$20.75 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 hours ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide marketing and technical expertise to enhance the water/wastewater group in Houston, TX.

  • Assist in the marketing and management of major projects and clients statewide.

  • Mentor and train staff, and serve as a technical resource in water and wastewater planning, design, and construction methods.


Job description

Overview / Responsibilities

Wood has a career opportunity for a Senior Water/Wastewater Seller-Doer with a strong track record of business development, client service management and project management to provide senior-level depth to the growing water/wastewater team in Houston, TX. We are seeking a Seller-Doer who enjoys technical work as well as challenges and opportunities of expanding the capabilities of a successful water/wastewater group. 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 documents and specifications, as well as construction oversight and administration. This position also requires strong business development and proposal preparation skills.

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities for this Seller-Doer include providing marketing and technical expertise to enhance our water/wastewater group in Houston, TX; assisting in the marketing and management of major projects and clients statewide; mentoring and training of staff; and serving as a technical resource to augment the firm's expertise in the latest water and the wastewater planning, design and construction methods.

Skills / Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil, Mechanical, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering, or related field of study
  • PE registration in Texas is required
  • Ability to obtain Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Minimum of 10 years' experience with designing and managing medium to large-sized water and wastewater projects with full responsibility for budget, schedule, contractual obligations, client service, and quality standards
  • Strong, proven client development/management skills, including preparation of fee estimates, proposals and statements of qualifications
  • Our ideal candidate has good existing relationships with local and statewide clients in the water/wastewater sector
  • Applicant must possess strong organizational, analytical and problem solving skills, and have the ability to work on multiple, unique assignments simultaneously
  • Applicant must possess excellent, clear and concise, verbal and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to coordinate meetings, conduct effective client presentations and prepare written reports
  • Must pass drug test, background check, and physical; and must have a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the Company's driving (MVR) policy
Company Overview

Wood is a global leader in engineering and consultancy across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www.woodplc.com

Diversity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER