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Water Distribution System Operator Jobs in Arizona

Review system maps and as built plans and perform assigned blue stakes Assist in the installation of water distribution components including water mains, fire hydrants, meters, and valves. Respond to ...

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

OPERATOR I Under immediate supervision performs basic installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of water distribution system. * Assist and operate specialized equipment, machines, and ...

OPERATOR I Under immediate supervision performs basic installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of water distribution system. Assist and operate specialized equipment, machines, and vehicles ...

Water Technician

Tucson, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Water Operator Technician Tucson, SaddleBrooke, and Catalina Areas Position Overview JW Water is ... Investigate, troubleshoot, and repair leaks within the water distribution system. * Inspect ...

Water Technician

Tucson, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Water Operator Technician Tucson, SaddleBrooke, and Catalina Areas Position Overview JW Water is ... Investigate, troubleshoot, and repair leaks within the water distribution system. * Inspect ...

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Water Distribution System Operator information

What are some common challenges faced by water distribution system operators, and how are they addressed on the job?

Water Distribution System Operators often face challenges such as unexpected equipment malfunctions, water main breaks, and maintaining water quality during peak usage periods. To address these issues, operators rely on routine system inspections, preventative maintenance, and quick response protocols for emergencies. Collaboration with other utility staff and clear communication with supervisors are key to troubleshooting and resolving problems efficiently, ensuring safe and reliable water delivery for the community.

What is the difference between Water Distribution System Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater Distribution System OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater Distribution Certification, CDL often preferredWater Treatment Certification, State Operator License
Work EnvironmentInspecting and maintaining water distribution pipes, valves, and metersOperating and maintaining water treatment equipment at treatment plants
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, public utilitiesWater treatment facilities, public utilities

The Water Distribution System Operator primarily focuses on maintaining and operating the infrastructure that delivers water to consumers, while the Water Treatment Plant Operator manages the processes that treat water to meet safety standards. Both roles require similar certifications and often work within the same industry, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water distribution system operator?

To thrive as a Water Distribution System Operator, you need a solid understanding of water system operations, hydraulics, and safety protocols, usually supported by a high school diploma and state certification or licensure. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond to emergencies and collaborate with team members. These skills ensure the safe, efficient delivery of clean water and compliance with regulatory standards.

What is a water distribution system operator?

Water Distribution System Operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining the systems that deliver clean, safe drinking water to homes and businesses. They monitor water quality, operate pumps and valves, repair pipes, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. Their work is essential to public health, as they help prevent contamination and ensure a reliable supply of water to communities.

What are popular job titles related to Water Distribution System Operator jobs in Arizona?

For Water Distribution System Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Distribution System Operator jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Distribution System Operator jobs in Arizona are:

Infographic showing various Water Distribution System Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Water Distribution System Operator I/ II / III

City of Bullhead City

Bullhead City, AZ • On-site

$23.12 - $35.69/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

STATEMENT OF THE JOB STATEMENT OF THE JOB: Members of the Distribution System Operators Group are responsible for performing a variety of technical duties to support and ensure proper operation of the city's potable water production and distribution systems and may perform duties relating to the operation, maintenance, and repair of other utility systems as necessary. All classifications in this group must be able to perform the essential functions below. The differences between classifications are the level of mastery of the essential functions, the degree of supervision required when performing these functions, certifications acquired, and the amount of lead direction provided to others.

Water Distribution System Operator I: Journey-level class. The Technician works under general supervision, independently performing essential functions. Water Distribution System Operator II: Advanced-level class.

The Technician works without supervision, independently performing all essential functions. Water Distribution System Operator III: Expert-level class. The Technician works independently and has mastered the knowledge and skills needed to perform the essential functions as well as additional tasks such as cross-connection control.

Rate of Pay: *New employees will typically be hired at the first step of the pay scale. *Water Distribution System Operator I: $23.12 - $34.33 Water Distribution System Operator II: $23.59 - $35.02 Water Distribution System Operator III: $24.64 - $35.69 EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE/LICENSING & TRAINING EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE/ LICENSING & TRAINING Classification Minimum Education Licenses Required * Supplemental required training will be provided by the City Water Operator I High School Diploma or GED Valid State-Issued Driver's License ADEQ Water Distribution System Operator Grade 1 Water Operator II High School Diploma or GED Valid State-Issued Commercial Driver's License ADEQ Water Distribution System Operator Grade 2 One (1) year of experience as Operator I Water Operator III High School Diploma or GED Valid State-Issued Commercial Driver's License ADEQ Water Distribution System Operator Grade 3 One (1) year of experience as Operator I Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIESESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and other characteristics

This list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class. Operates the water distribution and treatment systems. Performs routine to complex tasks associated with utilities equipment.

This includes lubrication; cleaning; adjustment of pumps, valves and fluid levels; and recording and logging test results, gauge readings and observed conditions. Exercises distribution system valves and fire hydrants. Monitors water quality and collects flow data; collects samples of water for lab analysis; performs routine tests on samples; adheres to chain of custody protocols and ADEQ sampling requirements.

Operates, maintains, and troubleshoots chlorine generation and injection systems; records chlorine residuals throughout the system and ensures they are maintained within accepted levels. Inspects and ensures proper operation of equipment; reads meters, gauges, and instruments; reports and records any failures or operating difficulties. Locates and marks underground water, wastewater, and storm drainage infrastructure.

Assists with customer service requests and provides excellent customer service; responds to questions and complaints from the public. Monitors system conditions and makes process control adjustments using computer and SCADA systems. Organizes work assignments and sets priorities.

Prepares and maintains records of work performed and materials used. Responds to emergency callouts and resides within a 30-minute response time to the central operations facility. Checks job sites for potential hazards; ensures appropriate traffic control; understands and adheres to all applicable safety rules, regulations, practices, or procedures.

Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the department's service to its customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active member of a team. Performs and/or assists with construction and repair work and operates construction equipment as necessary. Performs and/or assists with work on all utility systems and related equipment as necessary.

Represents the City with dignity, integrity, and a spirit of cooperation in all relationships with staff and the public. Other Duties as assigned KNOWLEDGE OF: City policies and procedures. Concepts, materials and terminology related to utilities systems.

Federal, state and local requirements pertaining to public utilities systems. Equipment used to operate, maintain, and repair utilities systems. Methods, techniques, parts, tools and materials used in the maintenance and repair of utilities systems.

Fire hydrant operation, replacement, repair, and testing. Cross connection control, system valve operation and maintenance, pressure regulation and fluid dynamics. Computer programs, including SCADA, used in utilities operations.

Safe operation and inspection of various trucks and construction equipment. Techniques for concrete installation and electrical installation used in and around well houses, booster stations and storage facilities. Must have a strong working knowledge of confined space entry, trench safety, and working from extreme heights.

Safe work methods and safety regulations pertaining to the work. Record keeping practices, both electronic and hard copy. Techniques for dealing with a variety of individuals from various socioeconomic, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, in person and over the telephone.

Best practices for project management and providing lead direction (Water Operator III only). SKILL IN: Maintaining effective communication and working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Identifying and resolving operational, technical and procedural problems.

Preparing clear written and verbal reports. Planning and determining priorities. Contributing to the accomplishment of work group goals, objectives, and activities.

Safely and effectively using and maintaining hand tools, power tools, and heavy equipment related to the work. Operating utilities equipment, systems, and infrastructure. Operating measurement tools, sampling equipment, and laboratory instrumentation.

Operating and maintaining pumps, motors, valves, fire hydrants, air relief valves, PRVs, and control systems. Performing general maintenance work, individually or as a member of a crew, in various areas. Reading and interpreting plans, maps, and instructions.

Using GIS and SCADA as applied to utility systems. Understanding and following oral and written directions. Maintaining accurate records of work performed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT 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. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to use hands to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds or more. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus. Specific hearing abilities include the ability to hold a conversation with others by telephone, in person, and over radio equipment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be subject to exposure to hazardous materials, moving mechanical parts, fumes, odors, gases, poor ventilation, extreme temperatures, workspace restrictions, intense noises, and travel. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately noisy.