Water Distribution Technician (Water Utilities Specialist) Local 955

Come Work for the City That Works for You.

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