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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

NW Natural

Water Operations Senior Manager

Newberg, OR

$97K - $155K/yr

Oregon Water Distribution Operator (Grade 1-4) * Oregon Water Treatment Operator (Grade 1-4) * Oregon Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (Grade 1-4) * Oregon Wastewater Collections Operator (Grade 1 ...

Posted today

Kimley-Horn

Practice Leader - Water/Wastewater

Portland, OR · On-site

$23 - $31.75/hr

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

Primo Brands

Production Operator

Portland, OR

$23.50/hr

... distributed across more than 150,000 retail outlets. Location: Portland, OR Pay Rate: $23.50 hourly ... Our extensive direct-to-consumer offerings and industry-leading line-up of innovative water ...

Primo Brands

Production Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$23.50/hr

... distributed across more than 150,000 retail outlets. Location: Portland, OR Pay Rate: $23.50 hourly ... Our extensive direct-to-consumer offerings and industry-leading line-up of innovative water ...

Arclin

Chemical Production Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$23.88 - $31.38/hr

DCS Distributed Control Systems experience a plus. * Basic math skills required including the use ... Our technologies make homes and transportation safer, help crops flourish, keep water clean ...

Arclin

Chemical Production Operator

Portland, OR

$31.38/hr

DCS Distributed Control Systems experience a plus. * Basic math skills required including the use ... Our technologies make homes and transportation safer, help crops flourish, keep water clean ...

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All JobsWater Distribution Operator JobsWater Distribution Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Water Distribution Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Portland, OR is $27.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $32.12 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 Portland, OR? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
Water Distribution Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,583 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Water Operations Senior Manager

NW Natural

Newberg, OR

$97K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

Water Operations Senior Manager 

Non-Union Position
WTR-Water Services Management; Newberg, Oregon (US-OR)  
Regular FT, Exempt
Posting # 5589  

About Us:

NW Natural Water owns and operates water and wastewater utilities in communities throughout Texas, Arizona, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Since 2018, we have acquired more than 30 utilities and today serve more than 190,000 people via 76,000 connections.

Our parent company, NW Natural Holding Company (NYSE: NWN) (NW Natural Holdings), is headquartered in Portland, Oregon and has been doing business for over 165 years. The company operates through NW Natural Gas Company (NW Natural), SiEnergy Operating (SiEnergy), NW Natural Water Company (NW Natural Water), NW Natural Renewables Holdings (NW Natural Renewables), and other business interests, serving a combined population of over 2.6 million people.

The Role:

Administer client relationship and operations management responsibilities pertaining to service agreement scope fulfillment in the areas of system operation, utility management, and management of client relationships. Major areas of management include staffing, water systems compliance, budgeting, and revenue generation.  

Day to Day:
  • Administer the overall operation of water distribution, water treatment, wastewater collections, and wastewater treatment for client water systems within department service area. Execute all contractual deliverables in the areas of field operations and management services.
  • Manage client communications, including preparation of written status reports, email, phone, and in person meetings as required.
  • Facilitate preparation of annual client budgets and midyear budget adjustments. Coordinate client budget approvals and manage service contracts to meet budgets.  
  • Maintain current knowledge and understanding in order to ensure strict compliance with all federal and state rules and regulations.
  • Develop and manage operations team, including responsibility to hire in accordance with staffing plan, develop staff to effectively provide services, and to complete training and gain certifications in accordance with company policy.  
  • Conduct scheduled employee staffing performance evaluations within Company guidelines.
  • Manage department budget through personnel utilization and other metrics.
  • Direct emergency response programs.
  • Comply with all Company policies, procedures, and safety regulations.
  • Comply with Company Grooming and uniform policy. 
Come on your first day with:

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

REQUIRED:

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education/experience.  
  • Five years experience in a leadership/management role.  
  • Two to five years of experience in covering all aspects of utility operation.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of laws and regulations that apply to various governing agencies.
  • Thorough knowledge of water and wastewater system operations, as applicable. 
  • Valid driver’s license (or obtain within 90 days if out-of-state), required certifications/endorsements, and satisfactory driving record. 

CERTIFICATIONS: Preference to hold one or more upon hire, or must obtain a level 1 certification within one year of employment 

  • Oregon Water Distribution Operator (Grade 1-4)
  • Oregon Water Treatment Operator (Grade 1-4)
  • Oregon Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (Grade 1-4)
  • Oregon Wastewater Collections Operator (Grade 1-4) 
Working Conditions:

The working environment will vary from extreme outdoor conditions to indoor job duties.  This position requires decision and leadership ability, at times in emergency situations. Safety procedures must always be followed.  Employees may be exposed to hazardous materials, confined space, electrical components, and heavy equipment such as backhoes, dump trucks and sewer flushing vehicles.  Employees must be in a physical condition that will allow personnel access into typical industrial processing plant facilities and equipment. 

What we offer:


Health & Wellness –

  • Rich health insurance benefits with competitive employer contribution
  • Free access to an online wellness resources platform 

Work Life Balance -

  • Accrue up to 15 Vacation Days annually
  • 13 paid holidays
  • 3 weeks paid parental leave

Financial -

  • Competitive 401K company contribution and match 
  • 15% discount on NW Natural stock through Employee Stock Purchase Program
  • Up to $5250 a year in tuition reimbursement  

Base salary range: $97,078.00 - $155,324.00 per year, depending on qualifications 
 

Application Process: To be considered for this position, submit a complete electronic application including cover letter and resume via our website.

https://www.careers.nwnatural.com/nwnaturalwater

Deadline: 8/11/26

Disclosure: We are a drug free workplace and we comply with Federal Drug Free Workplace Act and Department of Transportation regulations. NW Natural Water participates in E-Verify. Individuals hired will have their Form I-9 information submitted to E-Verify. E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from an employee’s Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment eligibility.

E-Verify Information
NW Natural participates in E-Verify. Individuals hired will have their Form I-9 information submitted to E-Verify. E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from an employee’s Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to data from U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration records to confirm employment eligibility.

All applications must be submitted through NW Natural Water’s Electronic Application System. Resumes submitted via email, fax or mail will not be accepted in lieu of an electronic application.

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.  

NW Natural Water does not accept unsolicited submissions or assistance from search firms for posted positions. Resumes submitted by search firms working under a valid and current written contract with NW Natural Water valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from NW Natural Water HR/Employment will be deemed the sole property of NW Natural Water. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by NW Natural Water as a result of the referral or through other means.

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