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Water Distribution Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Oak Park

Water & Sewer Worker I

Oak Park, IL · On-site

Ability to exercise, inspect and locate difficulties on valves throughout the water distribution * Ability to make service connections; tap main lines and boring for service installation; replace ...

GFT.

Linear (Pipeline) Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

The Senior Engineer will be managing project/tasks in the planning, design and construction of water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, stormwater systems, and pump/lift stations as ...

GFT.

Linear (Pipeline) Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

The Senior Engineer will be managing project/tasks in the planning, design and construction of water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, stormwater systems, and pump/lift stations as ...

GFT.

Linear (Pipeline) Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

The Senior Engineer will be managing project/tasks in the planning, design and construction of water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, stormwater systems, and pump/lift stations as ...

GFT.

Linear (Pipeline) Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

$75K - $150K/yr

The Senior Engineer will be managing project/tasks in the planning, design and construction of water distribution systems, wastewater collection systems, stormwater systems, and pump/lift stations as ...

Village of Winnetka, IL

Electric Lineworker

Winnetka, IL · On-site

$138K - $143K/yr

Water & Electric Opening Date: 08/10/2026 General Purpose The Electric Lineworker installs, repairs, maintains, and relocates overhead and/or underground electric distribution and transmission ...

Clarendon Hills

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

Clarendon Hills, IL · On-site

$133K - $178K/yr

Thorough experience in public works operations including water distribution, including considerable experience in a supervisory and managerial capacity; or any equivalent combination of training and ...

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All JobsWater Distribution JobsWater Distribution Jobs in Chicago, IL

Water Distribution information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$26

$58

How much do water distribution jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution in Chicago, IL is $26.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.28 and $31.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water distribution worker?

Water distribution workers are professionals responsible for operating and maintaining the systems that deliver clean, safe water to homes and businesses. Their duties include monitoring water quality, repairing pipes and valves, ensuring proper water pressure, and responding to leaks or service disruptions. They play a crucial role in public health and infrastructure by making sure that water distribution systems comply with safety regulations and function efficiently. This job often requires technical knowledge, attention to detail, and sometimes certification or licensing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water distribution operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Distribution Operator, you need a solid understanding of water systems, hydraulics, maintenance procedures, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and GIS mapping software is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout operators apart. These skills ensure the safe and efficient delivery of clean water to communities, uphold regulatory standards, and minimize service disruptions.

What are some common challenges faced by water distribution professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Water distribution professionals often encounter challenges such as aging infrastructure, leak detection, maintaining water quality standards, and responding to emergency repairs. Addressing these issues requires strong problem-solving skills, familiarity with modern monitoring technologies, and close coordination with maintenance and engineering teams. Proactive maintenance, ongoing training, and clear communication with both colleagues and the public can help mitigate these challenges and ensure reliable water service.

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

AspectWater DistributionWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater Distribution Operator LicenseWater Treatment Operator License
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, pipelines, reservoirsPlant facilities, chemical handling
Industry UsageMunicipal water systems, pipelinesWater purification, treatment processes
Job FocusMaintaining and repairing water pipelines and infrastructureOperating and monitoring water treatment equipment

Water Distribution professionals focus on maintaining and repairing water pipelines and infrastructure, ensuring safe water delivery. Water Treatment Plant Operators manage water purification processes at treatment facilities. While both roles require similar certifications and work within the water industry, their primary responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What does water distribution do?

Water distribution workers are responsible for delivering clean, safe drinking water to homes, businesses, and public facilities through a network of pipes and pumps. They maintain and repair the infrastructure, monitor water quality, and ensure proper pressure and flow within the system. This role often requires knowledge of plumbing, safety procedures, and sometimes certifications in water system operations.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Water Distribution jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Water Distribution job openings:

Water Distribution jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Distribution job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,387 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Water/Wastewater Engineer Intern

Baxter and Woodman Inc

Crystal Lake, IL • On-site, Remote

$23/hr

Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Your future position: Water/Wastewater Engineer Intern

Choose your location: Chicago, Mokena, or Crystal Lake, IL

Why you should join our team! Why Baxter & Woodman?

At Baxter & Woodman, both seasoned professionals and recent graduates find more than a job; they uncover a long-lasting, fulfilling career with a distinguished leader in technology and innovation. Our work environment is extraordinary and being honored as one of the 2026 Zweig Best Firms to Work For exemplifies our appreciation and respect for our dedicated staff.

About the role, Your Impact

Baxter & Woodman has a rewarding opportunity for an engineering internship in our Chicago (O'Hare), Mokena, Naperville, or Crystal Lake, IL offices. This on-the job experience will support the firm’s environmental and construction groups with the design and construction of a variety of facilities and offer the opportunity to work directly with firm clients. A variety of responsibilities and duties will provide a well-rounded background in engineering.

What your day-to-day will look like, what you will learn on the job

  • Assisting senior engineers with the evaluation, study and design of potable water distribution and wastewater collection pipelines and pumping stations, water and wastewater treatment plants, and drainage systems.
  • Field work, studies, and design of water system rehabilitation.
  • Field work associated with stormwater system management and water main / sanitary sewer installation.

Education Requirement

  • Ongoing pursuit of a 4-year degree in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in Environmental Engineering.

Must-haves, what you will bring

  • Maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.0/4.0
  • Available to start May or June 2027
  • Ability to travel throughout Chicago area (own transportation)
  • Work in a team environment
  • Strong written, verbal, computer, and organizational skills

Compensation The hourly pay for this role is $23.00. Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, depth of experience, and certifications.

You matter! Our outstanding benefits - At our organization, we prioritize the holistic well-being of our employees through a comprehensive range of benefits. This commitment is evident in our healthcare offerings, including medical, dental, and vision plans, alongside an Employee Assistance Program and dedicated benefit advisors for personalized support. Financial well-being is enhanced through our financial planning program, life and disability insurance, tax savings plans, and coverage for accidents, cancer, and critical illnesses. Balancing work and life, we provide generous paid time off, paid holidays, parental leave, and flexible work arrangements, including the option to work from home and/or work a flexible schedule on eligible positions. Additionally, we lead the industry by offering 401k plans, supported by expert financial advisors, and an Employee Stock Ownership program, ensuring our employees are not just part of a workplace but a thriving, supportive community dedicated to their well-being, financial security, and happiness.

Baxter & Woodman is an equal opportunity - affirmative action – Vet/Disability employer.