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Water Treatment Distribution Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$25 - $32/hr

Operate and maintain municipal and/or private drinking water treatment & distribution systems ... Massachusetts Drinking Water Treatment Operator license - Grade 2 or higher * Massachusetts ...

$25 - $32/hr

Operate and maintain municipal and/or private drinking water treatment & distribution systems ... Massachusetts Drinking Water Treatment Operator license - Grade 2 or higher * Massachusetts ...

Water Operator

Raymond, NH · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Operate and maintain municipal and/or private drinking water treatment & distribution systems ... Massachusetts Drinking Water Treatment Operator license - Grade 2 or higher * Massachusetts ...

Water Operator

Raymond, NH · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Operate and maintain municipal and/or private drinking water treatment & distribution systems ... Massachusetts Drinking Water Treatment Operator license - Grade 2 or higher * Massachusetts ...

Water Operator

Raymond, NH · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Operate and maintain municipal and/or private drinking water treatment & distribution systems ... Massachusetts Drinking Water Treatment Operator license - Grade 2 or higher * Massachusetts ...

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Water Treatment Distribution Operator information

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$13

$27

$49

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

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for water treatment distribution operator in the United States is $27.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water treatment distribution operator do?

A Water Treatment Distribution Operator is responsible for ensuring that clean, safe drinking water is delivered to homes and businesses by monitoring, operating, and maintaining water treatment and distribution systems. Their duties include testing water quality, adjusting chemical levels, inspecting equipment, and repairing leaks or broken pipes. They also record data, perform routine maintenance, and respond to emergencies such as water main breaks or contamination incidents. This role is essential in protecting public health and complying with government regulations for water quality.

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

To thrive as a Water Treatment Distribution Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, hydraulics, and chemistry, typically backed by a high school diploma and a state-issued operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork skills help operators quickly address issues and maintain compliance. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, reliable water distribution and public health protection.

What are some common challenges water treatment distribution operators face when maintaining water quality in distribution systems?

Water Treatment Distribution Operators often encounter challenges such as managing fluctuations in water demand, detecting and addressing leaks or pipe breaks, and ensuring consistent water pressure throughout the distribution network. They must also monitor water quality parameters closely to prevent contamination and comply with regulatory standards. Collaborating with maintenance crews and responding quickly to emergencies are key aspects of the role, making adaptability and strong problem-solving skills essential for success.

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

AspectWater Treatment Distribution OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater Distribution Operator license, EPA certificationsWater Treatment Operator license, EPA certifications
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in distribution systems, pipelines, and reservoirsPlant environment, treatment facilities, and laboratory settings
Job FocusMaintaining and operating water distribution systemsOperating and maintaining water treatment processes

The Water Treatment Distribution Operator primarily manages the distribution system, ensuring safe water delivery through pipelines and reservoirs. In contrast, the Water Treatment Plant Operator focuses on the treatment process within the plant. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments but differ in their specific responsibilities within the water industry.

What cities are hiring for Water Treatment Distribution Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Water Treatment Distribution Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Water Treatment Distribution Operator jobs?

For Water Treatment Distribution Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Water Treatment Distribution Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,008 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Water Treatment Operator

Nashua, NH • On-site

$41.28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Our Company
Pennichuck Corporation is engaged primarily in the collection, storage, treatment, distribution and sale of potable water in southern and central New Hampshire. We have two business segments: regulated water utility operations and non-regulated water management services. This position is based in our treatment plant in Nashua, NH.
Water Treatment Operator
In this position, your primary responsibilities will include the operation, monitoring, controlling, maintaining, testing and troubleshooting of the water treatment processes at our plants, booster and well stations and/or water storage facilities. Your duties will include but are not limited to the following:
  • Operate, monitor, control, test and troubleshoot the water treatment process at the Nashua Water Treatment Plant, a 24/7/365 operation.
  • Travel assigned routes to perform routine inspection, calibration, sample collection and maintenance duties on booster stations, well stations and/or storage facilities and equipment to ensure the water systems remain working efficiently and within established standards of operation.
  • Perform a variety of standardize testing and analysis to ensure optimal water quality and compliance with federal and state regulations and general water quality goals
  • Travel to, inspect and maintain assigned storage tanks, dams or intake structures.

Qualifications for this position include:
Entry level - ($27.87/hour*) Requirements:
  • High school diploma/GED
  • Valid state driver's license in good standing
  • First Aid Training within 12 months of hire
  • OSHA 10 Hour Card within 12 months of hire
  • Ability to work a rotating shift schedule

Operator I - ($31.35/hour*) Additional Requirements:
  • One year successful service and deemed as fully qualified by means of training, experience, and knowledge; or relevant experience

Operator II - ($35.78/hour*) Additional Requirements:
  • NHDES Treatment Operator Certification I
  • Two years of successful operator service and deemed as fully qualified by means of training, experience, and knowledge

Operator III - ($41.28/hour*) - eligible for consideration after two years at Pennichuck and with additional requirements:
  • NHDES Treatment Operator Certification II
  • Three total years of successful experience (at least two of which at Pennichuck) and deemed as fully qualified by means of training, experience, and knowledge

*Water Treatment Plant employees scheduled to work on shifts, other than first shift on weekdays, will be paid a shift differential of $3.52 per hour.
What We Offer:
� A robust total rewards package which includes vacation and sick time, multiple health insurance options, company-paid dental insurance, a 401K plan with company 3% match, and a fully company-funded pension plan.
� Opportunities for professional growth and development.
� A supportive and inclusive work culture.
Apply Today: Are you ready to make a difference? Apply now and become a part of the team!