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Water Distribution System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forsyth County, GA

Water Equipment Operator

Cumming, GA · On-site

$49K/yr

Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia Department of Transportation Flagging certification, must possess and maintain either a Georgia Water Distribution System Operator certification, or a ...

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Water Distribution System Operator information

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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:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution System Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution System Operator jobs are:
Water Distribution System Operator jobs near you
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 Distribution Operator I or II (11.26)

Water Distribution Operator I or II (11.26)

Golden State Water Company

Norwalk, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Golden State Water Company is one of the largest investor-owned water utilities in the United States. We deliver quality, reliable water to more than 1 million people in over 80 communities throughout California. Golden State Water has been in business for more than 90 years because we put customers first.

THIS POSTING IS FOR ONE OPEN POSITION WE ARE ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR WATER DISTRIBUTION OPERATOR I / II. POSITION OFFERED WILL DEPEND ON THE CANDIDATE'S QUALIFICATIONS.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities for all levels of Water Distribution Operator
* Learns to perform the various tasks associated with the maintenance and operation of a water distribution system.
* Learns the proper use of tools and equipment required to perform the job.
* Under direction, participates in the installation, repairs and replacement of water mains, water services, valves, fire hydrants and water meters.
* Interacts with customers and acts as a representative of the Company.
* Performs basic customer support activities associated with the installation, modification, service and repair of water distribution equipment and facilities.
* Locates water main and service lines.
* Installs, repairs and replaces water mains, water services, water meters, valves, fire hydrants and other water distribution system appurtenances.
* Performs routine maintenance activities such as system flushing, valve exercising and fire hydrant maintenance.
* Inspects and tests equipment and records accurate details of working order.
* Performs fire flow tests and accurately records all data.
* Notifies customers of scheduled and emergency outages.
* Develops and implements shut-downs of the water distribution system for planned and emergency work.
* Familiar with the basic duties and tasks associated with the operation and maintenance of a water distribution system.
* May operate heavy machinery including dump truck and back hoe.
* Familiar with basic safe-work practices including but not limited to traffic control, personal protective equipment, basic trench shoring, hazardous materials, confined space and electrical safety.
* Performs meter reads, ons and offs and field investigations.
* Performs collection activities of delinquent accounts.
* Participates in routine maintenance activities such as system flushing, valve exercising and fire hydrant maintenance.
* Under direction, follows established policies and procedures in repair of equipment to ensure proper working order.
* Operates company vehicles and equipment according to established safety procedures and policies.
* Prepares daily logs and reports on work performed.
* May require after hour work due to 24-hour operation
* Available for emergency response, 24 hours/day, seven days/week
* Must reside within 25 miles of the nearest water system boundary where assigned in order to respond to emergencies.
* Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications for a Water Distribution Operator I and II
* High school diploma or equivalent
* General PC skills
* Good communication (both written and verbal) and organizational skills
* Valid California driver license

Certification Requirements for a Water Distribution Operator I
* Not Applicable

Certification / Experience Requirements for a Water Distribution Operator II
* SWRCB Grade 1 Water Distribution Operator Certificate
* Two years as a Water Distribution Operator I or equivalent experience in the water utility industry

Qualities of a Successful Distribution Operator I and II
* Trustworthy; strong personal integrity
* Demonstrates strong level of accountability and ownership
* Collaborative/Team oriented
* Emotional Maturity
* Exhibits professionalism with internal and external customers
* Organized with strong attention to detail and time management skills
* High degree of initiative; self-starter
May include working in all weather conditions, during all hours of the day. Physical demands include but are not limited to standing, climbing, walking, lifting, bending, pulling and/or pushing, grasping, reaching, stooping and crouching, sitting, typing, walking, reading, writing, color determination, speaking and listening for extended periods of time.

BENEFITS

Our Company supports our employees with rich benefit programs and resources to help them thrive today and prepare for tomorrow. Benefit options include medical, dental, and vision plans with the Company currently paying 85% of the monthly premium for employees and their eligible dependents. We also offer paid vacation and sick time and twelve Company paid holidays per year. To help our employees plan for the future, we offer both a 401(k) retirement plan as well as a Defined Contribution Profit Sharing retirement plan. Additional benefits include life, AD&D, and LTD insurance as well as health savings account and flexible spending plans.

COMPENSATION INFORMATION

The compensation range provided is in compliance with state specific laws.Multiple factors are used to determine the actual starting rate of pay for all of our positions, including specific skills, years of experience, education, certification(s), and other job related factors.

The responsibilities of this position will involve access to information that may be considered confidential, private and sensitive. Therefore, the individual filling this position will be required to both allow and pass a background check.

NOTE: Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with special needs to perform the essential functions.

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