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Water Distribution System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Water Operator

Wellington, CO · On-site

$48K - $100K/yr

Duties/Responsibilities · Operate and maintain the supply and distribution system. · Daily system ... Water System Operator Class I Distribution/Class D Treatment - $56,000-$60,000 annual salary ...

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The Fuel Distribution System Operator receives, stores, transfers, and issues fuel through ... This operator gauges tanks for water, temperature, and fuel levels, checks pumping systems for ...

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Water Distribution System Operator information

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$14

$30

$49

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

As of Jul 12, 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 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Water Distribution System Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,351 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Water Operator

Northern Colorado Water Association

Wellington, CO • On-site

$48K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

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Job description

Northern Colorado Water Association

Water Operator Job Listing

Northern Colorado Water Association, a rural ground water system serving roughly 1500 taps in Northern Colorado, is seeking to hire a motivated individual to join the NCWA team; an experienced water operator is desired but onsite training will be offered for entry level candidates.  This is a full-time, benefited position with healthcare; dental and vision coverage, HSA contribution, annual retirement payment and both sick and vacation time program. Available to hire immediately.

General Purpose

Properly operate, maintain and inspect Northern Colorado Water Association water supply (groundwater) and distribution system including meter reading system.

Must be willing to perform or assist in needed repairs, maintenance and cleaning of NCWA facilities, grounds, vehicles and equipment/devices used for daily operation. A variety of skilled and labor tasks in relation to mechanical, construction, and maintenance of system.

Ability to assist in night/weekend emergency calls to provide repairs throughout system is required. A rotation will be established. When on call you must have the ability to respond to calls within 45 mins of receiving the call or emergency.

Duties/Responsibilities

·         Operate and maintain the supply and distribution system.

·         Daily system checks-including all pump stations, well sites and water storage tanks.

·         Weekly inspection and monitoring at water supply and throughout distribution system ensuring compliance with CDPHE.

·         Monitoring and maintaining all pumps and equipment in well houses and pump stations.

·         Monitor static and pumping aquifer levels.

·         Monitor and record chlorine residual weekly and maintain and order required chemicals for disinfection.

·         Monitor and maintain PRV vaults. Work with contractor for any repairs or improvements.

·         Confined space entry and training.

·         Participate in collection of all required water quality compliance samples.

·         Work with management, engineering and contractors to review all system repairs (planned/emergency) as well as system upgrades and improvements.

·         Participate in good relations with consecutive connections in distribution system.

·         Work with management and contractors for all required permitting and locate requests.

·         Ensure all locate requests are completed in timely manner and protection of infrastructure.

·         Maintain and monitor all hydrants and valves in distribution system including valve exercising, hydrant flushing and hydrant painting.

·         Monitor tank inspections and routine tank cleaning schedule.

·         Maintain and repair mechanical equipment for proper operation.

·         Maintain company vehicles, NCWA office facilities and grounds.

·         Work with management regarding source water protection plan, augmentation plan and other related water rights tasks.

·         Trouble shoot and repair system controls and equipment.

·         Attend board meetings monthly - used to communicate and keep BOD apprised.

·         Acquire and maintain required certifications to operate the system.

·         On call responsibilities- rotate for 24/7 coverage.

·         Must have functional computer skills and good organizational skills.

Preferred Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

·         Ability to conduct all required water quality compliance testing and inspections and aptitude for continued education/training regarding chemical and microbiological analyses on drinking water.

·         Ability to learn, if not already skilled in equipment operation for water supply system, distribution system, safety procedures and facility maintenance.

·         Ability to operate a range of sophisticated analytical instruments ensuring property operation of system.

·         Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, construction and welding experience is highly desired.

·         Ability to work independently when needed as well as with other employees and management cooperatively.

·         Knowledge of State of Colorado and Federal Regulations in relation to drinking water.

·         Knowledge of water quality laboratory operations and chemistry is desired but not required.

Education/Formal Training/Experience

·         A Class C Water Treatment License and Class II Distribution License are required to operate system. Having these licenses at time of application is desired but not required. NCWA will offer on-site training and preparation time to begin to acquire necessary testing with respect to CCWP testing requirements. Class D Water treatment and Class I Distribution licenses must be obtained within 6 months of employment with motivation to continue testing until required levels are met.

·         Minimum of 1 year’s experience in water treatment or water distribution is preferred but not required.

·         Possession of valid Driver’s License is required.

Hiring Range

Water System Operator Trainee (no licensing) - $48,000-$50,000 annual salary with incentive of 5% pay increase for each additional license obtained.

Water System Operator Class I Distribution/Class D Treatment - $56,000-$60,000 annual salary depending on experience level with incentive of 5% pay increase for each additional license obtained.

Water System Operator Class II Distribution/Class C Treatment - $60,000-$85,000 depending on experience level with discussion of pay increase annually.