ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

Pae

JSC Operator 1 of 2

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Operator Job Code: U52352 Company Conformance Statement In the performance of their respective ... Understand potable water treatment and distribution. * Have a working knowledge of refrigeration ...

Amentum

JSC Operator 1 of 2

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Operator Job Code: U52352 Company Conformance Statement In the performance of their respective ... Understand potable water treatment and distribution. * Have a working knowledge of refrigeration ...

ABM

Stationary Engineer

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

$74.96/hr

Oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment for steam and heated water distribution ... Operating Procedure) program implementation and documentation.

Hultec

Rubber Press Operator (Growth Potential)

Spring, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

... water is distributed through pipe systems that transport treated water from treatment plants to ... Rubber Press Operator Join a Growing Team | Training Provided | Great Benefits If you enjoy hands ...

Hultec Group

Rubber Press Operator (Growth Potential)

Spring, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

... water is distributed through pipe systems that transport treated water from treatment plants to ... Rubber Press Operator Join a Growing Team | Training Provided | Great Benefits If you enjoy hands ...

Hultec Group

Rubber Press Operator (Growth Potential)

Spring, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

... water is distributed through pipe systems that transport treated water from treatment plants to ... Rubber Press Operator Join a Growing Team | Training Provided | Great Benefits If you enjoy hands ...

Tetra Tech

Civil Engineer III

Houston, TX · On-site +1

... water distribution systems, water tower and pump station design. * Previous mentoring and/or ... Requires use of hands for typing, handling materials, and operating office equipment; vision ...

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Civil Engineer III

Houston, TX · On-site

... water distribution systems, water tower and pump station design. * Previous mentoring and/or ... Requires use of hands for typing, handling materials, and operating office equipment; vision ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 7, 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:

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 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.

Treatment Plant Operator I - Water Production

City of Pearland - Texas

Pearland, TX

$21.83 - $23.63/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Earn up to $5,000 in hiring incentives!

The City of Pearland, TX is seeking to hire a full-time Treatment Plant Operator I - Water Production to lead and improve aspects of the day-to-day operations of our Water Production Division. Are you service-oriented? Could you excel in fast-paced environment? If so, you may be perfect for this position!

The Treatment Plant Operator I - Water Production earns a competitive salary of $21.83 to $23.63/hourly based on qualifications. Additionally, the city pays all premiums for our employees' dental, long-term disability protection, and life insurance plus the majority portion of the medical premium for employees and their dependents. We also offer a retirement plan through the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) with a 2:1 employer match, life insurance, disability, access to the city's recreation fitness center, employee assistance program, educational assistance, 11 paid holidays and 2 designated paid holidays, paid vacation, sick leave, and an active wellness program focusing on physical, mental, and financial health.

Earn up to $5,000 in hiring incentives when you join the City of Pearland's Utilities team as a licensed TCEQ Water Operator! Incentive amounts are based on your license grade:

Grade C License - $2500
Grade B License - $3500
Grade A License - $5000

ABOUT THE CITY OF PEARLAND

Pearland is one of the fastest growing cities in Texas due to affordable housing, outstanding schools, safe neighborhoods, and superb quality of life. Ranked as one of the top ten safest cities in Texas, Pearland residents know their families are safe and secure in the community and surrounding areas. Our close proximity to Houston, just a short 20-minute drive to downtown, allows residents to experience all the city has to offer including professional sports, world-class cultural amenities, and recreation.

Employees of the City of Pearland use multi-directional communication and cross-functional teams to promote a greater understanding of the organization by employees at all levels. We have created a culture of continuous learning that encourages and supports employee development and growth. Our work environment is one where innovation is not only supported but encouraged.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR I - WATER PRODUCTION

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Performs daily plant checks to ensure efficient production, treatment, storage, & distribution of public drinking water
  • Identify, troubleshoot, & repair critical treatment processes
  • Practice safe HAZMAT handling protocols
  • Flushes all assigned dead-ends within the City's distribution system to maintain optimal water quality
  • Analytical data entry, documentation, & recordkeeping
  • Assists coworkers and supervisors in daily scheduled and unscheduled tasks
  • Provide guidance to contracted vendors within Water Production Facilities
  • Collects TCEQ (state) compliance bacteriological samples for laboratory testing
  • Provide superior customer service during water quality investigations

JOB REQUIREMENTS

  • Responsible for guiding others, requiring frequent decisions, affecting the individual, co-workers and others who depend on the service or product; works in a somewhat fluid environment with rules and procedures, but many variations from the routine.
  • Performs medium work that involves walking, standing, stooping, stretching, or lifting all of the time and also involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or exceptional skill, adeptness, and speed in the use of fingers, hands, or limbs in tasks involving very close tolerances or limits of accuracy.
  • Uses addition and subtraction, multiplication and division and/or calculates ratios, rates and percent.
  • Reads technical instructions, procedures manuals and charts to solve practical problems.

SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

  • Valid Texas Driver's License.
  • The ability to obtain a TCEQ "D" Water license within 6 months and a TCEQ "C" Groundwater license within 2 years of hire. A valid TCEQ "C" Surface Water license is acceptable as well.

Apply