1

Water Distribution System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... system in the recording and regulating of water distribution and the monitoring and recording of natural gas usage and wastewater flow. Additionally, incumbents will be responsible for receiving ...

Gauge tanks for water, temperature, and fuel levels. Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on ... systems, operating fuel bulk storage and distribution systems and equipment. Must pass a pre ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Water Distribution System Operator information

See salary details

$14

$30

$49

How much do water distribution system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution system operator in the United States is $30.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $36.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Water Distribution System Operator jobs
What states have the most Water Distribution System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Distribution System Operator jobs include:
Distribution System Operator

Distribution System Operator

PPL Corporation

Allentown, PA • On-site

Other

Posted 27 days ago


PPL rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Company Summary Statement
PPL Electric Utilities delivers safe, reliable and affordable electricity to more than 1.4 million homes and businesses throughout its 29-county service territory in eastern and central Pennsylvania. Through smart investments and innovation, it has built one of the most advanced electric grids in the United States. And, with over a century of expertise, PPL Electric remains focused on continuing to build the utility of the future, today. Regularly ranking among the country's best utility companies for reliability and customer satisfaction, PPL Electric has won numerous awards, including 30 J.D. Power Awards for providing top-quality service to residential and business customers. PPL Electric is a major employer and an active supporter of the communities it serves. Empowering employees, community members and initiatives across its service territory through volunteerism and investments in organizations that support education, sustainability, and wellbeing.
Overview

Under general direction, responsible for the more complex directed single and three-phase switching and customer restoration efforts. Works independently with minimal guidance using knowledge of the PPL Permit and Tag process, T&D Operating Instructions, and departmental guidelines. May provide guidance and direction to other PPL employees to support production of high quality, timely and cost-effective restoration of electrical service.

Must be willing to work rotating shifts! 

#INDPPL


Responsibilities
  • Evaluates and controls the status of all PPL Electric Utilities (PPLEU) transmission, distribution, and substation equipment. Properly documents maintenance and emergent work activities, as well as system problems. Reports any major system problems or customer interruptions as appropriate.
  • Prepares more complex directed single and three-phase switching and tagging activities in support of maintenance or restorative services. Ensure familiarity with all jobs currently in progress to ensure safe work conditions for field crews and the public.
  • Prepares and analyzes load transfers on both the distribution and the transmission systems to prevent overload damage to
  • PPL EU facilities and to restore customer load in the minimum time possible.
  • Enhances the accuracy of operational tools through the on-going revision of primary operating maps, static map boards, computer models, and Operating Instructions.
  • Execute Emergency Load Control Procedures to maintain system integrity under emergency conditions up to and including the shedding of firm load, independent of management direction.
  • Directs certain activities of Distribution Operations, Relay Test, and other departments, utilizing via 3-part communications to effectively and clearly communicate planned work steps and ensure full understanding of orders issued.
  • Provides functional advice or training to less-experienced System Operators or System Dispatchers. Acts as a resource for colleagues with less experience. May direct the work of other staff members.
  • Increases and applies knowledge of the PPL Permit and Tag process to plan work activities to minimize customer and equipment outage time and maximize employee safety.
  • Required to do shift work and to work overtime.
  • Physical presence in the office/on-site to engage in face-to-face interaction and coordination of work among direct reports and co-workers.
  • May be assigned an Electric Utilities emergency and storm role. This is a special assignment that comes into play during storms and other emergencies when the company needs to restore power or respond to other issues affecting customer service. This role may necessitate the need to work after-hours, outside of your normal schedule.

Qualifications

Candidate Qualifications 

Candidates must meet the basic qualifications and pass all required tests or assessments to receive consideration. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility form upon hire.

 Basic Qualifications 

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent GED
  • Experience in the theory and application of basic electrical principles
  • Must be willing to do shift work and work overtime
  • Pre-employment testing is required: PSP psychological testing
  • Successful completion of the formal System Operator Training School and "on-the-job" Training programs is required
  • Basic Computer Skills

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Minimum of three years in a skilled field electrical or line crew position
  • Experience in the application and use of an energy control process
  • Demonstrated ability to organize and analyze data and apply sound reasoning and judgment in developing appropriate solutions to operation of the system under normal and emergency conditions
  • Ability and initiative to organize and direct a number of concurrent activities, under extreme pressure
  • A high degree of personal discipline and respect for preparing accurate data, permits, switching orders, and other reports
  • Ability to work independently, without supervision, and as a member of a group
  • Effective written and oral communication skills
  • Effective interpersonal skills

#INDPPL

Qualifications:

Candidate Qualifications 

Candidates must meet the basic qualifications and pass all required tests or assessments to receive consideration. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility form upon hire.

 Basic Qualifications 

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent GED
  • Experience in the theory and application of basic electrical principles
  • Must be willing to do shift work and work overtime
  • Pre-employment testing is required: PSP psychological testing
  • Successful completion of the formal System Operator Training School and "on-the-job" Training programs is required
  • Basic Computer Skills

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Minimum of three years in a skilled field electrical or line crew position
  • Experience in the application and use of an energy control process
  • Demonstrated ability to organize and analyze data and apply sound reasoning and judgment in developing appropriate solutions to operation of the system under normal and emergency conditions
  • Ability and initiative to organize and direct a number of concurrent activities, under extreme pressure
  • A high degree of personal discipline and respect for preparing accurate data, permits, switching orders, and other reports
  • Ability to work independently, without supervision, and as a member of a group
  • Effective written and oral communication skills
  • Effective interpersonal skills

#INDPPL

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

What PPL employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom