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Water Treatment Distribution Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bedford Regional Water Authority

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Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The ... operation of the Authority's water treatment, distribution, and support facilities.

V2X

Water Treatment Plant Operator 1

Honolulu, HI · On-site

Operate, monitor, maintain and repair conventional water treatment/distribution systems, including ... Current Hawaii Water Treatment Plant Operator (WTPO) Certification Required Grade 1 or higher.

V2X

Water Treatment Plant Operator 1

Honolulu, HI · On-site

Operate, monitor, maintain and repair conventional water treatment/distribution systems, including ... Current Hawaii Water Treatment Plant Operator (WTPO) Certification Required Grade 1 or higher.

Bedford Regional Water Authority

Be Seen First

Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Bedford, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The ... operation of the Authority's water treatment, distribution, and support facilities.

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

SWRCB Water Distribution Operator 1 certification - required if applicant does not hold a valid T1 certification. * SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator 1 certification preferred at time of hire, or ...

City of Danville

Water Distribution Operator

Danville, KY · On-site

$32K - $71K/yr

... treatment, police and fire services, 911 emergency dispatch services, parks and recreation ... Water Distribution Operator Pay Classification: Non-exempt Job Classification: Full-time Pay Grade:

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

SWRCB Water Distribution Operator 1 certification - required if applicant does not hold a valid T1 certification. * SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator 1 certification preferred at time of hire, or ...

City of Frederick, MD

Water Treatment Operator

Frederick, MD · On-site

$24.11 - $29.95/hr

WATER TREATMENT OPERATOR I $24.11per hour ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Performs regular ... distribution tanks and pump stations, control panels and adjust valves, pumps and chemical settings ...

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA

SWRCB Water Distribution Operator 1 certification - required if applicant does not hold a valid T1 certification. * SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator 1 certification preferred at time of hire, or ...

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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 13, 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:

Water Treatment Distribution Operator jobs near you
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 Purification Plant Operator Trainee/II/III

Bakersfield, CA

Kern County Water Agency
Public Administration • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Kern County Water Agencyexternal

$73K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Instructions for Application Provide a COMPLETE education history. Include ALL levels of education, including high school, college, graduate school and business, trade and technical school. Provide a COMPLETE employment history, beginning with current or most recent employment.

Include ALL employers, assignments, or volunteer activities, including military employment, during at least the last 10 years. Explain any gaps in employment. Provide at least two professional references.

All applicable transcripts, licenses and/or certificates must be included with your application. A resume may be included. However, a resume will NOT be accepted in lieu of a completed job application.

DO NOT include any letters of reference. Note: Only those applicants who complete the job application in its entirety and meet the Qualifications and Education Requirements will be considered. Note: Additional information for each position, including job duties and requirements, can be found by clicking "Menu" on the upper left hand corner and selecting "Job Descriptions".

FUNDAMENTAL OBJECTIVE Operate, monitor and maintain the Kern County Water Agency (Agency) conventional water purification plant and distribution system in conformance with the regulations set forth by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), Division of Drinking Water (DDW) and United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). SALARY RANGE Water Purification Plant Operator Trainee: $73,278 - $88,962/year Water Purification Plant Operator I: $84,261 - $102,336/year Water Purification Plant Operator III: $92,518 - $112,362/year JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities include operating, monitoring and maintaining the Kern County Water Agency's conventional water purification plant and distribution system in conformance with the regulations set forth by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), Division of Drinking Water (DDW) and United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS Education High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate.

Licenses/Certifications/Registrations Water Purification Plant Operator Trainee Possession of a valid California Class C or higher driver license. Successful completion of SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade II (T2) exam and SWRCB Water Distribution Grade II (D2) exam within 18 months of hire; possession of a valid SWRCB T2 certification and a valid SWRCB D2 certification within 20 months of hire. Successful completion of SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade III (T3) exam and SWRCB Water Distribution Operator Grade III (D3) within 36 months of hire.

Possession of a valid respirator certification from the Agency's designated occupational physician within 12 months of hire. Water Purification Plant Operator II Possession of a valid California Class C or higher driver license. Possession of a valid SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade II (T2) certification and a valid SWRCB Water Distribution Grade II (D2) certification.

Successful completion of SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade III (T3) exam and SWRCB Water Distribution Operator Grade III (D3) exam within 18 months of hire; possession of a valid SWRCB T3 and a valid SWRCB D3 certification within 38 months of hire. Possession of a valid respirator certification from the Agency's designated occupational physician within 12 months of hire. Water Purification Plant Operator III Possession of a valid California Class C or higher driver license.

Possession of a valid SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade III (T3) certification and a valid SWRCB Water Distribution Grade III (D3) certification. Possession of a valid respirator certification from the Agency's designated occupational physician within 12 months of hire. Experience Water Purification Plant Operator Trainee None.

Water Purification Plant Operator II One (1) year of experience working at a water purification facility. Water Purification Plant Operator III Two (2) years operating a conventional water purification plant and distribution system. PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS Note: Values based on normally scheduled work day Activity Essential Marginal N/A Seldom Occasionally Frequently Carry/Lift Up to 30 lbs.

x x Carry/Lift Up to 60 lbs. x x Carry/Lift Up to 100 lbs. x x Climb x x Crawl/Kneel x x Drive x x Grasp/Squeeze/Pinch x x Hear x x Push/Pull/Drag x x Push Keys x x See x x Sit x x Speak x x Squat/Stoop x x Stand x x Swim x Twist/Turn x x Walk x x Environmental Demands Essential Marginal N/A Seldom Occasionally Frequently Chemical Hazards x x Electrical Hazards x x Explosive Hazards x x Mechanical Hazards x x Radiation Hazards x Extreme Cold/Extreme Heat x x Extreme Noise x x Bodies of Water/Canals x x Fumes/Dust x x Insects x x 1 With Assistance Need Help.

For application or login problems, please click "Menu" on the upper left hand corner and select "Help & Support" or call the NeoGov/Government Jobs customer service hotline: (855) 524-5627. You will also find instructions on checking the status of your application on this site. If you have recruitment questions, please email Human Resources at jobs@kcwa.com.

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