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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Xylem

Account Specialist

Tualatin, OR

$19.75 - $27/hr

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... distribution solutions for high purity and wastewater applications in aerospace, beverage ...

General Pacific

Warehouse worker

Fairview, OR · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Our company is a utility distribution provider serving the electric, water, telephone, and ... Capable of operating a PC and various software packages including, but not limited to, word ...

General Pacific

Warehouse worker

Fairview, OR

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Our company is a utility distribution provider serving the electric, water, telephone, and ... Capable of operating a PC and various software packages including, but not limited to, word ...

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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 Aug 22, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,583 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Director of Business Development - Construction Management Services West & Gas Engineering

E2 Consulting Engineers, Inc.

Portland, OR • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

About the Organization
E2 Consulting Engineers, LP (E2) is a professional services firm established in 1988 specializing in a full spectrum of engineering services, including electric and gas engineering and design, program management services, technology and supply chain, gas pipeline construction and inspection services, environmental consulting and remediation and federal base operations and infrastructure support services. At E2, we value safety, innovation and collaboration, and we are dedicated to excellence.
Overview
E2 Consulting Engineers is seeking a Director of Business Development - Construction Management Services West & Gas Engineering to support the continued growth of our Oil & Gas and Water Infrastructure practice throughout the Western United States, including California, Nevada, Arizona, Oregon, and surrounding markets.
This role will focus on identifying and developing new client relationships, expanding existing accounts, and positioning E2 for strategic utility, pipeline, facilities, compressor station, treatment plant, and infrastructure opportunities across both public and private sector clients.
The candidate understands the engineering, utility, and infrastructure landscape and has established relationships within oil & gas operators, utilities, municipalities, EPC contractors, industrial clients, or water agencies.
Note: This is a single open position. We are advertising this role across multiple locations, but we will only hire one candidate.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute strategic growth initiatives across the Western U.S. market.
  • Identify, pursue, and help secure new opportunities across engineering, program management, and construction management, inspection, and field services support.
  • Build and maintain relationships with utilities, municipalities, operators, EPC firms, industrial clients, and strategic partners.
  • Support proposal development, teaming strategies, presentations, and contract pursuits.
  • Coordinate with engineering, project delivery, and field services teams to align client needs with E2 full range of capabilities.
  • Track upcoming capital programs, infrastructure investments, and regulatory-driven projects.
  • Represent E2 at industry conferences, association events, and client meetings throughout the region.
  • Expand E2's presence within Oil & Gas, utility, water/wastewater, and industrial infrastructure markets.
  • Maintain opportunity pipeline tracking, forecasting, and CRM updates.
  • Support strategic partnerships and regional expansion initiatives.

Qualifications
  • 12+ years of experience in business development, client management, within engineering, utilities, oil & gas, water, or infrastructure industries.
  • Existing relationships within utility, energy, water, municipal, or industrial infrastructure markets strongly preferred.
  • Understanding of engineering consulting, EPC delivery, utility capital programs, and infrastructure lifecycle projects.
  • Proven track record of meeting business development targets and expanding into new markets.
  • Established ability to write winning RFI/SS/RFQ/RFP proposals.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment under rigid time constraints and deadlines.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fully remote environment, managing teams and projects across geographically dispersed locations.
  • Experience supporting pursuits involving pipelines, compressor stations, facilities, transmission/distribution systems, treatment plants, or industrial infrastructure is highly desirable.
  • Strong communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Construction Management, or related field preferred.

Preferred
  • Natural gas utility infrastructure.
  • Oil & Gas facilities and pipeline projects.
  • Water and wastewater infrastructure.
  • Utility modernization programs.
  • Municipal utility programs.
  • EPC and owner's engineer environments.
  • Multi-state client development and account growth.

Why E2
  • Rapidly growing engineering consulting firm with a strong utility and infrastructure presence.
  • Opportunity to help expand E2's footprint across the Western U.S.
  • Exposure to high-profile infrastructure and energy programs.
  • Collaborative leadership environment with executive visibility.
  • Competitive compensation, bonus structure, and long-term growth opportunities.

Benefits
E2 Consulting Engineers, LP offers an excellent benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401(k) with employer match, paid time off.
Work Environment/Physical Demands
Work Environment
This job operates in a professional office environment and uses standard office equipment such as computers and phones.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Ability to sit/stand for up to 8 hours per day.
  • Ability to move freely for up to 8 hours per day.

Travel
  • Willingness to travel throughout the Western U.S. up to 100% to engage customers and partners.

Local Candidates only
No
Drug Free Workplace
E2 Consulting Engineers, LP is a Drug Free Workplace. After accepting an offer of employment, applicants may be required to undergo background checks, drug testing, and/or fit-for-duty physical examination. Drug screens will include, but not be limited to, Amphetamines, Cocaine Metabolites, Marijuana Metabolites (THC), Opiates, and Phencyclidine (PCP). As a federal contractor, E2 cannot permit employees in certain positions to use medical marijuana, even if prescribed by an authorized physician.
Solicitation
Please no solicitation of any kind from agencies, staffing, or recruiting firms.
EEO Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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