American Water
American Water

60 American Water Distribution Operator Jobs Hiring Near You

Wastewater Collection Operator I

York, PA · On-site

$21.50 - $29.50/hr

As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career. Our benefits packages focus on ...

As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career. Our benefits packages focus on ...

Showing results 41-60

American Water Jobs Information

What is it like to work at American Water?

American Water is a company that prioritizes a culture of safety, sustainability, and community involvement, emphasizing the importance of its employees' contributions to the environment and public health.

As a leading water and wastewater services provider, American Water operates a large network of treatment plants, distribution systems, and customer service teams, offering a diverse range of career opportunities in fields such as engineering, operations, and customer service. The company's mission is to provide clean water and wastewater services to millions of customers across the United States.

Working at American Water may appeal to candidates who are passionate about making a positive impact on their communities and the environment, as the company offers a range of career development opportunities, competitive compensation and benefits, and a chance to work on critical infrastructure projects that support public health and safety.

What makes American Water an attractive place to work?

American Water is a leading water and wastewater services provider in the United States, serving over 14 million people across 46 states and the District of Columbia. The company offers a dynamic work environment that values innovation, collaboration, and employee development, with opportunities for employees to work on complex projects and contribute to the company's mission of delivering safe and reliable water services. By joining American Water, professionals can pursue a career with a company that prioritizes customer satisfaction, community engagement, and environmental stewardship, while also offering opportunities for growth, professional development, and making a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.

Do workers at American Water get paid breaks?

Sometimes. Only some people get paid breaks.
50% of people say they don’t get paid breaks.
Based on data from 46 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Does American Water pay people when they’re sick?

Yes. Most people get paid when they’re sick.
87% of people say they would get paid if they were sick but scheduled to work.
Based on data from 62 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

At American Water, are sick days and vacation days separate paid time off?

Sick days and vacation days are separate paid time off.
71% of people say they don’t have to use vacation days when they’re out sick.
Based on data from 28 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and August 2026.

Is the health insurance from American Water affordable enough for their workers?

Most people say the health insurance costs are okay.
97% of people say the health insurance costs are okay
Based on data from 33 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between March 2025 and August 2026.

Do people get paid time off at American Water?

Most people get paid time off work.
93% of people say they get paid time off.
Based on data from 30 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and August 2026.

How far ahead of time do people find out their work schedule?

Most people find out their schedule less than four weeks ahead of time.
  • 86% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts one week or less ahead of time.
  • 14% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts two weeks ahead of time.
  • 0% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts three weeks ahead of time.
  • 0% of people with changing schedules find out their shifts four weeks or more ahead of time.

Based on data from 7 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and March 2026.

Do workers at American Water worry about hours?

Most people don’t worry about getting enough hours.
93% of people report they don’t worry about getting enough hours.
Based on data from 45 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and March 2026.

Do American Water workers get to choose the shifts they work?

Some people don’t get to choose which shifts they work.
43% report that they don’t have enough control over which shifts they work.
Based on data from 35 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and March 2026.

How easy is it for American Water workers to change shifts?

Some people find it hard to change shifts.
43% of people report that it’s hard to change shifts if they need to.
Based on data from 21 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and March 2026.

How easy is it to get time off at American Water?

Most people find it easy to get time off.
93% of people report it’s easy to get time off.
Based on data from 59 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Do American Water managers change schedules at the last minute?

Most managers don’t change people’s schedules at the last minute.
90% of people say their manager doesn’t change their shift schedule at the last minute.
Based on data from 30 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and February 2026.

Do jobs at American Water spill into time workers aren’t paid for?

Rarely. The job doesn't usually spill into unpaid time.
16% of people report that their job takes up time that they don’t get paid for.
Based on data from 44 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and March 2026.

How easy is it to take sick days at American Water?

Most people find it easy to take sick days.
90% of people report that it’s easy to take time off if they are sick.
Based on data from 61 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Is a American Water job good for students?

Most students say this is a good place to work if you’re studying.
80% of students report this is a good place to work if you’re studying.
Based on data from 5 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between January 2025 and June 2025.

Is working at American Water good if you’re a parent or caregiver?

Most parents and caregivers say this is a good place to work.
75% of people who care for a child or other relative report this is a good place to work.
Based on data from 24 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Do people at American Water feel treated with respect by their managers?

Most people feel treated with respect by their managers.
78% of people say they’re treated with respect by their managers.
Based on data from 60 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Do people at American Water get to take their breaks without interruption?

Most people get breaks without interruption.
72% of people report that they get to take their breaks without interruption.
Based on data from 54 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Is it stressful to work at American Water?

Some people feel stressed here.
52% of people say they often feel stressed at work.
Based on data from 62 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Do people at American Water enjoy their jobs?

Most people enjoy their job.
85% of people report they enjoy their job.
Based on data from 53 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Do people at American Water recommend working with their team?

Only some people recommend working with their team.
39% of people report that they wouldn’t recommend working with their immediate team to a friend.
Based on data from 64 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Do people get enough training when they start at American Water?

Most people got enough training when they started.
68% of people report they got enough training when they started working here.
Based on data from 62 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Do people get support to advance at American Water?

Most people are given support to advance their career here.
In the last year, 67% of people report being given support to advance their career here.
Based on data from 61 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Do people think American Water’s headquarters understands what’s happening where they work?

Most people think headquarters doesn’t understand what’s happening where they work.
70% of people think that this employer’s headquarters or owners don’t have a good understanding of what’s really happening where they work.
Based on data from 61 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

Do workers feel well informed about how American Water is doing?

Most people feel well informed about how the company is doing.
74% of people feel that they are kept well informed about how the company is doing as a whole.
Based on data from 62 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between November 2024 and August 2026.

What other companies are hiring for Distribution Operator jobs?

Infographic showing various Distribution Operator job openings at American Water in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Hybrid job distribution.

$28 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support plant operations by performing basic equipment maintenance, inspections, and learning treatment processes.

  • Troubleshoot, install, operate, maintain, inspect, repair, and perform preventive maintenance on equipment such as pumps, blowers, motors, and chemical feed systems.

  • Perform sampling, testing, and laboratory analysis to monitor process compliance and adjust operations as necessary.


American Water rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Requisition ID:  110262 

Share Our Purpose.  Be Yourself.  Feel Valued. 

People are the heart of our business. As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career.  Our benefits packages focus on key areas such as health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.

We are Beautifully Different. We strongly believe having diversity across our company makes us more successful and helps us provide essential services to our customers. We are stronger because we embrace different ideas, viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds. American Water is the best choice for your next role!  Click here for more information on our inclusion, diversity, and equity journey.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations.  American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Position Information

$28.00hr - $32.00hr

The base salary range represents a good faith salary range for this position. This position is eligible for annual incentive pay and has the opportunity for continued salary growth. If you are hired at American Water your base salary compensation will be determined based on factors such as market, geography, skills, education, and/or experience. At American Water, we are committed to pay equity. 

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k),Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more! 

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally! 

#LI-RB33

#LI-Onsite

Primary Role

American Water is currently seeking a Matintenance Technician to join our Woodbridge, VA team.  As Technician, Maintenance  you will support plant operations by performing basic equipment maintenance, assisting with routine inspections, and learning essential treatment processes. This role develops foundational skills in plant operation, safety practices, and mechanical troubleshooting while working under close guidance. At times, you will be required to operate the treatment plant in a way that meets all state and federal regulatory requirements. 

Key Accountabilities
  • Troubleshoot, install, operate, maintain, inspect, repair, and perform preventive maintenance duties on the equipment at the treatment plants including, but not limited to, pumps, blowers, motors, chemical feed equipment, screens, mixers, filters, flow meters, gauges, valves, wash water processing equipment and related instrumentation and control equipment
  • Calibrate and adjust chemical feed and process equipment including instrumentation and control systems. Monitor the treatment plant and adjust as necessary to control their operations. Perform sampling, testing, and laboratory analysis to monitor process and determine compliance with Federal, State, and American Water’s standards
  • Perform necessary emergency operating procedures and take proper corrective action for continuous effective operation of the treatment plants
  • Maintain all necessary records, tools, and work equipment
  • Perform maintenance and custodial duties. Perform light construction projects as needed including carpentry, plumbing, painting, electrical, masonry, etc. Specifies and initiates orders for parts and supplies
  • Assume duties of Plant Operator in the Operator's absence. Perform delivery, loading, unloading, and placing of water/wastewater treatment chemicals into storage, including chemical receiving and inventory
  • Maintain grounds, buildings, roadways, screens, reservoirs, and rights-of-way. Responsible for daily well run and all associated processes on weekends or whenever assigned
  • Responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting sewage collection system and/or water distribution systems
  • All other duties as assigned
Knowledge/Skills
  • Ability to learn and understand the operation of pumps, valves, motors, and other mechanical equipment related to plant operation and maintenance. Basic awareness of water/wastewater treatment principles and process objectives
  • Knowledge of required safety procedures (PPE, lockout/tagout, confined space entry, electrical safety)
  • Knowledge of emergency response protocols for plant systems, equipment failures, or chemical incidents
  • Must understand the working principle behind a computerized maintenance management program
  • Awareness of applicable state and federal water/wastewater regulations and the importance of compliance
  • Effective quantitative and analytical skills; attention to detail
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills 
  • Ability to clearly communicate operational changes, equipment issues, and safety concerns
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with operations, maintenance, and external contractors 
  • Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, engineering drawings, and equipment specifications
  • Basic understanding of piping systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical safety
  • Ability to recognize abnormal equipment conditions and report or troubleshoot mechanical issues under supervision 
  • Technical Proficiency: Good working knowledge of computer programs, databases, and software
  • Ability to perform sampling and basic laboratory tests under direction 
  • Skilled in safe handling, storage, and transfer of hazardous chemicals
  • Ability to respond to alarms and emergency conditions by following established procedures and supervisor direction.
  • Candidate must have the ability to obtain license(s) within designated timeframe 
  •  
Experience/Education
  • High School Diploma or equivalent Technical school coursework in industrial maintenance, mechanical systems, electrical systems, or a related field preferred
  • 0-2+ years’ experience in mechanical, industrial, environmental, or utility work. Experience in servicing, maintaining, and repairing a wide variety of machinery and equipment preferred
  • Prior water or wastewater treatment experience is desirable. 
Travel Requirements
  • Daily travel within region may be required
  • Valid driver license License requirements vary by state
Work Environment
  • Work performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including exposure to chemicals, odors, noise, and varying weather conditions
  • Potential exposure to dust, pollen, chemicals, and sewage
  • The ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment is required
  • May be required to work in buildings, in pits, manholes, on scaffoldings or in confined spaces
  • May be exposed to possible operations hazards including fumes and caustic chemicals, heavy machinery, high pressure, slippery surfaces, water/wastewater hazards and electrical equipment
  • Must be able to perform essential functions and meet the physical requirements of the position including ability to stand, climb stairs, and/ or walk and/or sit for long periods of time
  • Ability to safely lift, carry, push, pull, and move tools, equipment, and materials up to 80 lbs. as required
  • Involves crouching, stooping, and kneeling for extended or repeated periods
  • Must be able to safely drive a company vehicle for extended or intermittent periods in varying conditions
  • Frequently enters and exits vehicles
  • Overtime, rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and/or on-call assignments required depending on operational needs 

Join American Water...We Keep Life Flowing

American Water is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants based on his or her age, race, color, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, citizenship, or because they are an individual with a disability, protected veteran or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws.


What American Water employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About American Water

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With a history dating back to 1886, American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 6,500 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and regulated-like drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people in 24 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to help keep their lives flowing.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Camden, NJ, US

Year founded

1886

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