Water Distribution Technician- Water Utilities Specialist
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City of Columbia, Missouri
Full-Time | $23.26 $28.35 per Hour + Outstanding Benefits | Utilities Department
Posting Number: 4271P
Department: Utilities
Division: Water Distribution
Job Code: 02312
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Union Affiliation: Local 955
Pay Grade: 107
Openings: 2 Positions Available
Application Deadline: August 11, 2026
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday | 7:00 a.m. 3:30 p.m.
Help Deliver Safe, Reliable Water to an Entire Community
The City of Columbia Utilities Department is seeking experienced Water Distribution Technicians to help maintain, protect, and improve the water distribution system that serves thousands of homes, businesses, schools, and public facilities throughout our community.
This is an outstanding opportunity for skilled utility professionals who enjoy solving technical challenges, working outdoors, operating specialized equipment, and making a meaningful difference every day.
From locating underground water leaks using advanced technology to installing meters, protecting drinking water through backflow prevention, and responding to customer service needs, you'll play a vital role in delivering one of our community's most essential public services.
Why Join the City of Columbia?
Competitive hourly pay from $23.26 to $28.35 based on experience and qualifications
Outstanding employee benefits include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Missouri public retirement benefits
Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
Life insurance options
Employee Assistance Program
Stable full-time municipal employment
Union representation through Local 955
Professional certifications and career development opportunities
Opportunities for overtime and advancement
Meaningful work serving the Columbia community
What You'll Do
Use advanced computerized leak detection equipment and ultrasonic technology to locate underground water leaks
Install, replace, inspect, and troubleshoot residential and commercial water meters
Perform building water connection inspections to ensure compliance with City standards
Administer and support the City's cross-connection and backflow prevention program
Respond to water service calls, emergency repairs, outages, and customer concerns
Investigate water service issues and determine appropriate corrective actions
Collect water samples and perform field analysis
Operate heavy equipment, commercial vehicles, hand tools, and specialized utility equipment
Utilize GIS mapping, electronic work orders, and mobile technology to document field activities
Provide outstanding customer service while working directly with homeowners, contractors, and businesses
Support the maintenance and reliability of Columbia's public water infrastructure
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent
Three to five years of experience in water distribution operations or a closely related utility field
Required Licenses & Certifications
Valid Missouri Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with no air brake restriction
Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certification
Missouri Water Distribution System Operator DS III Certification within six months of hire
Missouri Certified Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester certification within six months of hire
The Ideal Candidate
Has experience with municipal water systems and underground utility infrastructure
Enjoys solving technical problems in the field
Has experience operating heavy equipment and specialized utility tools
Provides exceptional customer service
Works safely and independently with minimal supervision
Communicates effectively with coworkers, contractors, and the public
Takes pride in protecting public health through safe drinking water
Why This Position Matters
Every day, Columbia residents depend on safe, reliable drinking water.
As a Water Distribution Technician, you'll help protect public health, conserve water resources, maintain critical infrastructure, and ensure dependable service for homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, and public facilities throughout our community.
Your work directly impacts the quality of life for thousands of people every day.
Career Growth Opportunities
The City of Columbia Utilities Department offers opportunities to expand your technical expertise, earn industry certifications, and advance within municipal utility operations.
This position is an excellent opportunity for experienced utility professionals seeking a stable career with outstanding benefits and long-term advancement potential.
Additional Requirement
Utilities Department employees are required to maintain a permanent residence and telephone within 50 road miles of Columbia City Hall within 90 days of hire to support emergency response operations.
Participation in an on-call rotation is required to respond to emergency water system needs.
Apply Today
If you're ready to put your technical skills to work protecting one of Columbia's most valuable public resources while building a rewarding career with excellent pay and benefits, we encourage you to apply.
Applications will be accepted through August 11, 2026.
Individuals needing accommodation to apply may call 573-874-2489 or TTY 711 (Missouri Relay).
The City of Columbia is a merit-based, affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and participates in the federal E-Verify work authorization program. Pre-employment drug testing is required.
Salary/Compensation: $23.26 - $28.35 per hour
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