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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Facilities Director

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$126K - $180K/yr

Develop and administer operating and capital budgets related to facility operations, maintenance ... Oversee utilities and site infrastructure, including stormwater, natural gas, water distribution ...

Facilities Director

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$126K - $180K/yr

Develop and administer operating and capital budgets related to facility operations, maintenance ... Oversee utilities and site infrastructure, including stormwater, natural gas, water distribution ...

Facilities Director

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$126K - $180K/yr

Develop and administer operating and capital budgets related to facility operations, maintenance ... Oversee utilities and site infrastructure, including stormwater, natural gas, water distribution ...

Develop and administer operating and capital budgets related to facility operations, maintenance ... Oversee utilities and site infrastructure, including stormwater, natural gas, water distribution ...

Irrigation Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Disassembles, trouble shoots, and repairs solenoid operated irrigation control valves ... Knowledge and understanding of water management issues such as budgeting, conversions, GMP, GPH ...

Irrigation Technician

Novato, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Disassembles, trouble shoots, and repairs solenoid operated irrigation control valves ... Knowledge and understanding of water management issues such as budgeting, conversions, GMP, GPH ...

Irrigation Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

Disassembles, trouble shoots, and repairs solenoid operated irrigation control valves ... Knowledge and understanding of water management issues such as budgeting, conversions, GMP, GPH ...

Irrigation Technician

Novato, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $29.25/hr

Disassembles, trouble shoots, and repairs solenoid operated irrigation control valves ... Knowledge and understanding of water management issues such as budgeting, conversions, GMP, GPH ...

Irrigation Technician

Napa, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

Disassembles, trouble shoots, and repairs solenoid operated irrigation control valves ... Knowledge and understanding of water management issues such as budgeting, conversions, GMP, GPH ...

Irrigation Technician

Napa, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

Disassembles, trouble shoots, and repairs solenoid operated irrigation control valves ... Knowledge and understanding of water management issues such as budgeting, conversions, GMP, GPH ...

Showing results 21-33

Water Distribution Operator information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$14

$28

$44

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Santa Rosa, CA is $28.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $33.12 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 Santa Rosa, CA?

For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Water Distribution Operator jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Water Distribution Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,365 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Facilities Director

Petaluma Health Center

Petaluma, CA • On-site

$126K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Petaluma Health Center's mission is to provide high quality health care with access for all in Southern Sonoma County & West Marin. We pride ourselves on our Patient-Centered care while maintaining an engaging environment for our staff. The Center accomplishes this mission through collaborative, innovative programs, services and referral resources that meet the economic needs of the entire community.

FULL TIME EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:

  • 21 Days of Paid Time Off
  • 10 Observed Holidays
  • Medical Insurance (Entire deductible paid by us!)
  • 30 Chiropractor and Acupuncture visits per year included with enrollment in our health insurance plans (Kaiser and WHA)
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Gym Membership Discounts at Active Wellness Center and 24-Hour Fitness!
  • 401K Matching after 1 year of employment
  • Flexible Spending Account, Dependent Care FSA
  • Life Insurance (included at no cost to the employee)
  • Long Term Disability (included at no cost to the employee)
  • Employee Assistance Program (included at no cost to the employee)
Summary: The Facilities Director reports to the Chief Administrative Officer and provides strategic and operational leadership for PHC’s facilities portfolio, including maintenance, plant operations, utilities, environmental services, security, emergency preparedness, regulatory compliance, and capital projects. The role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, compliant, and well-maintained facilities across all PHC sites, while leading renovations, infrastructure upgrades, and site development project s from planning through occupancy. The Facilities Director also helps shape facility design standards, space planning, and aesthetic quality to support patient experience, staff effectiveness, and PHC’s organizational goals.
Areas of Responsibility

Facilities Operations and Maintenance
  • Directs the operation, maintenance, repair, and replacement of building systems and physical assets across PHC sites, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and other clinical support systems.
  • Oversee preventive maintenance programs, facility inspections, work order processes, vendor performance, and day-to-day site operations to ensure reliable, efficient, and safe facilities.
  • Supervises staff and contracted service providers; sets priorities, assigns work, monitors performance, and ensures timely completion of maintenance and repair needs.
  • Develop and administer operating and capital budgets related to facility operations, maintenance, and building improvements.
  • Maintains availability to respond to urgent operational issues outside normal business hours.

Capital Projects, Construction, and Space Planning

  • Leads owner-side project management for facility renovations, infrastructure upgrades, space reconfigurations, expansions, and new site development.
  • Oversee projects from concept through closeout, including scope development, budgeting,
    scheduling, consultant and contractor coordination, permitting, bidding, construction administration, occupancy planning, and transition of operations.
  • Coordinates with architects, engineers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and internal stakeholders to ensure projects meet operational needs, budget, timeline, and applicable healthcare standards.
  • Supports facility planning, design review, and space utilization decisions, with attention to functionality, workflow, durability, patient experience, and aesthetics.
  • Establishes and maintains project management processes, documentation, and reporting to
    support successful delivery of facilities projects.

Regulatory Compliance, Safety, and Emergency Preparedness

  • Ensures PHC facilities comply with applicable local, state, federal, and accreditation
    requirements, including life safety, infection prevention, workplace safety, and Environment of Care standards.
  • Develops, implements, and maintains facilities-related policies, procedures, inspections, testing, and documentation to support regulatory readiness.
  • Supports emergency preparedness activities, including facility-related emergency systems,
    response procedures, drills, and staff training.
  • Serves in a leadership role for facility safety initiatives, incident follow-up, corrective actions, and coordination with relevant committees and stakeholders.
  • Overseas safe handling, storage, and management of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Utilities, Grounds, and Site Infrastructure

  • Oversee utilities and site infrastructure, including stormwater, natural gas, water distribution, electrical service, parking areas, and related exterior systems.
  • Directs maintenance of grounds, landscaping, irrigation, exterior circulation areas, and pest management services to ensure safe, functional, and well-kept sites.
  • Negotiates and manages service contracts related to utilities, grounds, and facility support
    services.

Environmental Services

  • Evaluates, recommends, and manages environmental services delivery models, including
    outsourced and in-house custodial operations.
  • Oversees staffing, training, performance standards, quality control, equipment, supplies, and budgets for environmental services.
  • Ensure cleaning and environmental services support infection prevention, regulatory
    compliance, and a professional, welcoming environment for patients, staff, and visitors. 

Security and Protection Services

  • Directs PHC’s security program across all sites, including physical security operations, access control, badging, key control, surveillance systems, alarm response coordination, and incident response.
  • Oversee in-house and contracted security personnel and services, ensuring appropriate coverage, training, performance management, and documentation.
  • Develops and implements security policies, risk assessments, response protocols, and related coordination with site leadership, HR, Compliance, and law enforcement as appropriate.

Role will complete other duties as assigned.

Education/Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in facilities management, engineering, construction management, business administration, or related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered
  • Minimum 7 years of progressively responsible facilities operations experience, preferably in healthcare, ambulatory care, or a similarly regulated environment
  • Minimum 5 years of management experience with responsibility for multi-site facilities operations, environmental services/custodial services, security operations, vendor management, and regulatory compliance
  • Demonstrated experience leading significant construction, renovation, infrastructure, or site expansion projects
  • Experience managing outsourced service contracts and/or bringing services in-house strongly preferred

Desired Skills:

  • Interpret blueprints, plans and specifications
  • Knowledge of City and State building codes and all local, state regulations
  • Knowledge of building and utility maintenance and prevention
  • Knowledge of maintaining and repairing utility systems and physical structures of buildings
  • Experience with fiscal management and business practices followed to prepare bid specification, negotiate agreements and administer contracts
  • Knowledge of program planning and scheduling, building construction methods and materials, estimating practices and safety practices
  • Knowledge of CalOSHA regulations, building codes, fire and life safety codes, The Joint Commission standards, and other applicable regulations, codes or standards
  • Excellent project and personnel management skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Sensitivity to the needs and situations of a multi-cultural population from a variety of income levels

Licenses and Certifications:

  • Requires a valid California State Driver’s License


Language Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with other PHC staff members, vendors, and contractors