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Water Distribution System Operator Jobs in Arizona

City of San Luis, AZ

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ · On-site

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

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

City of San Luis

Water System Operator

San Luis, AZ

$21.04 - $26.60/hr

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

City of Scottsdale

Water Services Worker I

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$22.82 - $30.83/hr

Experience and /or knowledge of water distribution, large sprinkler systems, general construction ... Must possess or obtain within one year of hire or promotion Grade 1 operator certification from the ...

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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, and why are they important?

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 are Water Distribution System Operators?

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:
Water Distribution System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution System Operator job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Water Distribution Operator

Water Distribution Operator

City of Avondale, AZ

Avondale, AZ • On-site

$24.65 - $36.98/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Salary: $24.65 - $36.98 Hourly
Location : Avondale, AZ
Job Type: Full Time
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 06/16/2026
Closing Date: 7/5/2026 5:00 PM Arizona
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Job Description
The Water Distribution Operator performs a variety of daily tasks to operate, maintain, and repair the City's water distribution system. Work includes preventative and reactive O&M activities to ensure reliable system operation. Daily work tasks include repairs, replacements, and evaluation of the water mains, valves, hydrants, service lines, water meters, air release valves, blow-off valves, and other system appurtenances.
Under the direct supervision of the Water Distribution Supervisor, the Water Distribution Operator also performs system manipulations, system shutdowns, customer service investigations, and assists with other divisional tasks, including utility locating and marking and various water meter service activities.
The Water Distribution Operator is responsible for responding to emergencies and is required to participate in the 'on-call' program, responding to after-hours callbacks on a rotating schedule as needed. Work may be performed independently or in small teams.
Essential Functions
Performs predictive, preventative, and reactive operation and maintenance activities on the City's domestic water system, including valve exercising, valve maintenance, hydrant maintenance, hydrant flushing, customer service investigations, and more.
Repairs main breaks, isolates broken mains, sets up traffic control, and operates equipment such as backhoes, combination jet/vacuum trucks, ditch witch units, dump trucks, utility service trucks, jackhammers, underground piercing units, pneumatic and electric power tools, and other equipment for distribution system repair.
Repairs and/or replaces water service lines, water valves, valve boxes, air release valves, blow-offs, pressure reducing valves, fire hydrants, and other system appurtenances.
Communicates planned and unplanned interruptions in water service to customers. Ensures work areas are clean and hazard-free after completion of each assignment.
Utilizes the City's CMMS software on a daily basis to accurately record and reflect proper equipment, labor, and asset utilization for each assignment.
Investigates customer complaints related to water service, such as low or high water pressure, water quality, air entrainment, system leaks, and more. Participates in the rotational 'on-call' program and responds to emergency callbacks as required.
Follows all standard operating procedures (SOP) and job hazard analysis (JHA) for distribution operations and maintenance. Safely performs work and utilizes required safety equipment (PPE) as required. Occasionally enters confined spaces by safely following OSHA safety regulations.
Performs other duties as required, including occasional chlorine residual testing, leak detection, and emergency system marking as required by Arizona811.
May be called upon to assist other divisions within the Department and performs other duties as required.
To view the full job description and learn more about the responsibilities and qualifications, please click to view the Class Specification here
Minimum Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED equivalency is required.
Work requires a knowledge or interest in basic mechanical and/or repair processes. Knowledge obtained through a vocational school or technical college is preferred.
One (1) year of experience in operating and maintaining a water distribution system, operating heavy equipment, and/or experience in a construction-related field is required.
An equivalent combination of education and job-related experience may be considered on a year-for-year basis.
Must possess an Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Water Distribution Operator Grade I Certification or be able to obtain the Certification within six (6) months of hire, and must be able to maintain certification for the duration of employment.
Must possess an Arizona Class 'A' CDL upon hire and must be able to obtain a tanker endorsement within six (6) months of hire and maintain the license for the duration of employment.
The City of Avondale offers a comprehensive benefits package with outstanding health and wellness benefits, financial perks, work-life balance, and more. Explore our Benefits Guide for full details!For additional information, visit our
01
Select from the options below your highest level of completed education.
  • Not completed High School
  • High school or GED
  • Associates or Vocational Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree or higher

02
How many years of experience do you have in operating and maintaining a water distribution system, operating heavy equipment, and/or experience in a construction-related field?
  • No experience
  • 0 - 11 months
  • 1 year
  • 2 years
  • 3 years
  • 4 years
  • 5 or more years

03
This position requires an Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Water Distribution Operator Grade I Certification to be obtained within six (6) months of hire. Please indicate which of the following best describes your certification status:
  • I currently possess a valid ADEQ Water Distribution Operator Grade I or higher certification
  • I do not have the certification, but I am willing and able to obtain it within six (6) months of hire
  • N/A - I am unable to obtain the certification

04
This position requires a valid Arizona Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) by the time of hire. Please indicate which of the following best describes your current CDL Licensing status:
  • A valid Arizona Class A Commercial Driver's License
  • A valid Arizona Class A Commercial Driver's permit, and will be able to obtain a full Class A CDL by the time of hire
  • A valid out-of-state Commercial Driver's License that is transferable to a valid Arizona Class A CDL by the time of hire
  • N/A - I do not have a Commercial Driver's License

05
This position requires a valid Arizona tanker endorsement to be obtained within six (6) months of hire. Please indicate which of the following best describes your current tanker endorsement status:
  • I currently possess a tanker endorsement
  • I do not currently possess a tanker endorsement, but I am willing and able to obtain it within six (6) months of hire
  • N/A - I do not have a Commercial Driver's License

Required Question

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