Water Distribution Operator

Salary: $35.53 Hourly
Location : East Side Yard, 935 - 5th Avenue SE, Minneapolis, MN
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2026-PWWDO
Department: Public Works - Water Treatment & Distribution
Division: PW Water Treatment Maintenance
Opening Date: 11/01/2026
Closing Date: 12/2/2026 11:59 PM Central
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: CAW


Position Description
This position performs non-skilled and skilled manual laborer, drives trucks and operates equipment to support construction and maintenance activities within the Public Works Department.
Under supervision, perform manual and semi-skilled work in the maintenance of the City's Water Distribution System.

Additionally, the positions below are also open on the City of Minneapolis Career page, please review qualifications of each role before applying:

Public Service Worker I
Public Works Service Worker II
Water Distribution Operator Trainee
Availability: This position may involve shift work occasional weekend duty and/or requests to return to work for emergency water main repairs on a 24-hour basis, in all weather conditions.

2027 Salary Range:
Salary range for this position is $36.59-$44.40 hourly.

Information Sessions:

• Public Works will provide information sessions.
• Our Information Sessions offer you the opportunity to go beyond the website and talk to representatives about what skills Public Works is seeking and the application process.
• Please visit this link for the information sessions:

*The City of Minneapolis does not sponsor applicants for work visas.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Under supervision, learn about the City's water distribution system and how to perform work related to the operation, maintenance, repair, and disinfecting system components.
• Learn about and how to utilize water distribution related technology tools such as ARC GIS, mobile apps and Sono Phone.
• Learn and understand the impacts of varying soil profiles and erosion control.
• Under direct supervision, turn water service off and on for plumbing repairs, meter issues, or non-payment of the City Utility bill.
• Learn how to safely operate crew trucks, tapping machines, concrete saws, valve machines, jackhammers, pipe cutters, and a wide variety of other hand, hydraulic, and pneumatic and power equipment.
• Safely perform manual labor in excavations using appropriate tools and equipment outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Assist with locating and marking buried water infrastructure per Gopher State One Call requirements.
• Work with assigned crew members to learn how to troubleshoot issues and perform leak investigations to resolve water service concerns.
• As training is progresses assist with the operation, maintenance ,repair, and replacement of water distribution system components, such as hydrants, valves, Maintenance holes, and water main to American Water Works Association standards ,and with the installation, troubleshooting, testing, repair, and replacement of water meters and automated meter reading system devices.
• Actively pursue Water Supply System Operator D certification with the State of Minnesota.
• Assist in the location and operation of water system valves to isolate water mains to perform repairs, maintenance, and tests.
• Assist in the location and repair of leaks on the water distribution system.
• Assist in the repair and maintenance of gate valves in the water distribution system.
• Assist in the installation of a temporary water supply during major water system repair or maintenance.
• Assist in the disinfecting and testing of all water mains that have been replaced or repaired.
• Assist in utility locates using the Gopher State One automated ticket software Install line taps for new construction.
• May answer inquiries over the phone about the water distribution system, and take information about leaks, water main breaks and related matters.
• Assist with turning water off and on in regard to new and problem accounts.
• Communicate with the public in person to inform residents about water distribution system work.
• Assist with the maintenance, replacement and repair of fire hydrants.
• Assist with concrete restoration around fire hydrants and maintenance holes.
• Perform water system work in conjunction with road repair and replacement and other construction activity.
• Communicate through hand signals to direct heavy equipment activities for equipment operators and truck drivers.
• May use jackhammer and other heavy tools in excavation work.
• May replace or install water meters.
• May use laptop computer and/or iPads to retrieve and submit field data.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements: Perform field work in all kinds of weather conditions. Exposure to outdoor elements, gases, fumes, chemicals, dust, dirt, traffic and noise. Perform confined space entry/work; heavy physical labor work including bending, twisting, stooping, etc.; ability to push, pull, lift, carry and maneuver heavy items weighing up to 100 pounds; ability to work in excavations with watermain pipe; ability to stand/walk/maneuver on rough, uneven surfaces. Position may require compliance with OSHA Respiratory Protection Standard, including maintaining a clean-shaven face for proper respirator fit.
Required Qualifications
Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age by Tuesday, December 1th, 2026.

Minimum Education: High School Diploma or equivalent

Minimum Experience: One year of experience working with water distribution system, including, water mains, meter, and or similar equipment.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Valid driver's license. Applicants must be able to present proof of a current valid driver's license at the time of the Workplace Simulation Test and at the time of hire.
• As a condition of continued employment, obtaining a State of Minnesota Class D Water Supply System Operator Certificate is required within 12 months of hire. The City will provide the required training.

Equivalency: An equivalent combination of education (in a highly related field) and experience may be considered.

Background Check: The City has determined that a criminal background check and/or qualifications check may be necessary for certain positions with this job title. Applicants may be required to sign an informed consent form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought. Applicants who do not sign the informed consent form will not be considered further for the position.

Pre-Employment Medical Examination and Drug and Alcohol Test: After a conditional job offer, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment medical exam including a respiratory screening, back screening and hearing test and a pre-employment drug and alcohol test. Applicants will be required to sign a notification and consent form prior to undergoing pre-employment drug and alcohol testing. Applicants who do not consent to undergo a pre-employment drug and alcohol testing and/or who do not complete the pre-employment drug and alcohol testing within the allotted time frame will not be considered further and the City will withdraw the conditional job offer. Applicants must be deemed medically fit and successfully pass a drug and alcohol screening prior to hire.

Selection Process : The examination/selection process for this position may consist of a training & experience evaluation and Workplace Simulation Test 100%. Minimum passing score 70%. The City of Minneapolis Human Resources Department reserves the right to limit the number in any phase of the selection process. When completing your application form/materials, it is to your advantage to be as complete and thorough as is possible. A submitted application is also used to verify the answers to any supplemental questions. Information found to be false will result in an applicant's disqualification from the exam.

The Workplace Simulation formerly known as "Physical Agility" Test will be held the week of January 11, 2026: Candidates will be notified of the exact date, time and place of this testing event via email. A Workplace Simulation Test, testing endurance and the ability to lift, push, pull, carry, etc., will be included as part of the examination process. Candidates that fail to appear for testing will not be considered for hire

Interviews will be conducted the week of February 1, 2026: If you have successfully completed the Workplace Simulation Test and are selected to move forward in the process. The hiring authority reserves the right to determine the maximum number of candidates to interview from the established eligible list. If the hiring authority decides to interview other than by exam score order, they may select additional people to interview based on a candidate's education or experience related to the field, work history, or skills uniquely related to the operational needs of the position.

Veteran's Preference: For an eligible veteran to receive Veteran's Preference points for this exam, a veteran must complete and submit the form and supply a copy of his/her DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release from Active Duty) or other documentation verifying service to substantiate the services information as well as the character of the discharge. The veteran must submit all supporting documentation (disabled or non-disabled veteran) with the online application as an attachment and submit the completed application with documentation no later than the application deadline. If the applicant is a veteran who qualifies for disability veteran's preference, please note the veteran must also attach supporting documentation which designates the percentage of disability with the online application as an attachment. Veteran's Preference Points will not be awarded if supporting documentations is not submitted along with the application. Union Representation : This position is represented by a collective bargaining agreement between the City of Minneapolis and Eligible List Statement: The names of applicants who meet minimum qualification and who pass the screening process shall be placed on the eligible list for employment consideration. This list will be certified to the hiring manager who may use the list to fill a vacancy of the same job title. This eligible list will expire 11 months after it has been established.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Mechanical aptitude.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Ability to learn and perform various procedures and practices used in the repair and maintenance of water maintenance and distribution systems.
• Must be able to read and interpret Safety Data Sheets.
• Good interpersonal skills in communicating with residents from diverse communities.
• Ability to anticipate the tools and materials required to perform basic tasks.
• Ability to follow through on verbal and written instructions.
• Ability to become proficient in using mobile computers to complete work orders within 6 months of hire.
• Ability to perform manual labor in all weather conditions.
• Ability to climb ladders, kneel, crouch, bend, twist, stoop, and enter confined spaces.
• It is highly desirable that persons have a State of Minnesota Class D Water Supply System Operator License.
• It is highly desirable that persons have the ability to use computer software to retrieve and submit field data within six months of being assigned those duties.
• Knowledge of equipment and materials used in water main construction and maintenance.
• Knowledge of National Incident Management incident command protocols.
• Knowledge of and adherence to confined space entry procedures, including use of air monitors, non-entry tripods and completion of confined space entry permits.
• Ability to deal with angry and hostile citizens in water turn off situations.
• Knowledge of the safety precautions required in the job.
• Physical ability to lift heavy equipment and materials.
• Ability to read, write and understand written and oral instructions.
• Ability to prepare, maintain and keep accurate records.

As the largest and most vibrant city in the state, Minneapolis depends on purposeful, dedicated and innovative employees. Minneapolis has a large variety of careers for people of all experiences and backgrounds who come together for a singular purpose-serving the residents, businesses and visitors of Minneapolis.
The City of Minneapolis is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
Benefits Summary
Our employees enjoy competitive salaries and generous benefits. We pride ourselves on a comprehensive benefits program that supports employees' health and financial well-being. Programs, resources, and benefit eligibility varies based on position, average hours worked, location and length of service. For detailed benefits information, please visit the


Insurance
Health insurance
Eligibility for benefits begins the first of the month following employment date. The City of Minneapolis offers eligible employees with a choice of six provider networks, allowing you to select the best option for you. Available plans include Medica Choice Passport, Medica Elect, VantagePlus with Medica, Park Nicollet and HealthPartners Medical Group First with Medica, Ridgeview Community Network powered by Medica, and Clear Value with Medica.

Dental insurance
The City of Minneapolis offers dental insurance through Delta Dental of Minnesota and pays 100% of the monthly premium for eligible employees.

Life insurance
The city provides basic life insurance of one times your annual salary up to $50,000. You can elect to purchase optional life insurance.


Paid time off
Our generous leave package includes vacation, holidays and paid sick leave, which gives employees the opportunity to enhance their quality of life outside work. Amounts and accrual rates are based on years of experience and


Paid parental leave
City employees are eligible for up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave in the event of a birth or placement for adoption of a child.

Retirement
City employees earn a pension and may choose to participate in additional retirement savings programs.

• Pension: The City of Minneapolis participates in the Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA). Employees and the City both contribute a percentage of your pay to fund future benefits.
• Deferred compensation : Employees may choose to participate in pre-tax or after-tax savings plans through the Minnesota State Retirement System (MSRS).

Transportation
Eligible City employees may choose to participate in the following transportation programs:

• Metropass: The program allows eligible employees to enroll in a pass for unlimited bus or light rail rides at a discounted price.
• Parking or Van Pool: The City of Minneapolis gives you options to pay certain commuting costs, such as qualified parking and van pool expenses, with pre-tax dollars.

Learning and development
To engage and develop employees, the City of Minneapolis offers classes in leadership, cultural agility, change management and more. Additionally, educational discounts at Augsburg University, Hamline University, St. Catherine's, and St. Mary's University of Minnesota are available to City employees.

Other perks
Employees can also take advantage of flexible spending accounts, the , health club discounts and more.
01


How did you find out about this position? (Select all that apply)

• Recruiter
• City of Minneapolis website
• City of Minneapolis employee
• City of Minneapolis job interest card
• Friend, family, or community
• League of Minnesota Cities website
• Diversityjobs.com website
• Governmentjobs.com website
• Indeed.com website
• Minnesotajobs.com website
• LinkedIn
• Twitter / X
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Job Fair
• KMOJ Radio
• None of the above
• Other

02


If you marked other, please specify where you heard about this position (e.g., website name, City of Minneapolis employee name, job fair, professional association).
03


Please indicate which information session, community conversation, or job fair you attended, if any?

• DEED/ Dislocated Workers
• Urban League Twin Cities
• Summit Academy OIC
• Takoda/ American Indian OIC
• MAD DADS
• EMERGE
• The FATHER Project
• Twin Cities Rise!
• Open Doors
• HR Bridges event
• 363 Union Rep
• 49ers Union Rep
• Goodwill Easter Seals
• Ujamaa Place
• Saint Paul College
• Hennepin County Virtual Career Fair
• Metro Blooms
• People of Color Job Fair
• Job Corps
• Sabathani Community Center
• None of the above
• Other

04


If you answered 'Other' to question 3, please indicate what you attended.
05


Candidates must be at least 18 years of age by the application deadline. Will you be 18 years of age or older by Tuesday December 1, 2026?

• Yes
• No

06


Please indicate below the highest level of education that you have completed.

• High School Diploma / GED
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree
• Doctorate Degree
• I have not completed any of the above

07


Do you have a valid Driver's License?

• Yes
• No. I do not have a valid driver's license, but I will have one by January 11, 2027.
• No. I do not have a valid driver's license, and I will not be able to obtain one by January 11, 2027.

08


Do you have at least one (1) year of experience maintaining and repairing water main pipes and related equipment, as described in the job duties and responsibilities?

• Yes
• No

09


Do you have experience performing any of the following duties? (please check all that apply)

• Working with water main pipe
• Working with water main equipment
• Working with equipment and/or materials used in water main construction and maintenance
• Locating stop valves to isolate or turn off water flow
• Operating stop valves to isolate or turn off water flow
• Locating leaks on a water distribution system
• Repairing leaks on a water distribution system
• Repairing gate valves
• Maintaining gate valves
• Installing temporary water supply
• Disinfecting and testing of water mains that are opened for replacement & repair
• Performing resurfacing work, including concrete work, around fire hydrants or manholes
• Installing or replacing meters
• Preparing, maintaining and keeping accurate records

10


Do you currently possess a Minnesota Water Supply System Operators or Waste Water Treatment Certificate?

• Class 'A'
• Class 'B'
• Class 'C'
• Class 'D'
• Class 'E'
• None of the Above

11


Water Distribution Operators may be required to work nights, weekend shifts and/or holidays. Are you available to work during weekends, evenings/nights and holidays?

• Yes
• No

12


I understand that if I am not selected for this position, I won't be automatically considered for other Service Worker positions, and that I must apply to the other Service Worker positions in order to be considered for them.

• Yes
• No

Required Question