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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and ...

City of Stockton, CA

PLANT OPERATOR - WATER

Stockton, CA · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Plant Operator - Water Division City of Stockton | Municipal Utilities Department Schedule: The ... CLASS CHARACTERISTICS Entry level Initially, under direct supervision, incumbents learn and perform ...

New

City of Stockton

PLANT OPERATOR - WATER

Stockton, CA · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Plant Operator - Water Division City of Stockton | Municipal Utilities Department Schedule: The ... CLASS CHARACTERISTICS Entry level Initially, under direct supervision, incumbents learn and perform ...

New

City of Madera, CA

Water System Worker I

Madera, CA · On-site

$45K - $57K/yr

Primary Responsibilities The Water System Worker I is the entry level class in the Water System Operator series. Incumbents perform semiskilled and skilled duties in the testing, cleaning ...

City of Madera

Water System Worker I

Madera, CA · On-site

$45K - $57K/yr

Primary Responsibilities The Water System Worker I is the entry level class in the Water System Operator series. Incumbents perform semiskilled and skilled duties in the testing, cleaning ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator JobsEntry Level Water Operator Jobs in California

Entry Level Water Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do entry level water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in California is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level water operator do?

An Entry Level Water Operator is responsible for assisting in the operation and maintenance of water treatment plants and distribution systems. Their duties include monitoring equipment, collecting water samples for testing, recording data, and ensuring water safety standards are met. They work under the supervision of licensed operators and help troubleshoot minor issues with machinery or processes. This role is essential for providing safe, clean drinking water to communities and often requires working shifts, including nights and weekends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level water operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Water Operator, you need basic mechanical aptitude, knowledge of water treatment processes, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring a state-issued operator certification. Familiarity with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, water testing equipment, and safety protocols is often necessary. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and good communication skills help operators respond effectively to system issues and maintain compliance. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safe, reliable water treatment and distribution for public health and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level water operators, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level water operators often encounter challenges such as learning to monitor complex systems, maintaining regulatory compliance, and responding to unexpected equipment malfunctions. Adapting to shift work and being vigilant about safety protocols are also key aspects. These challenges can be addressed through thorough on-the-job training, active mentorship from experienced operators, and continuous learning about new technologies and regulations. Building strong communication skills and collaborating closely with team members help ensure smooth operations and readiness to handle any issues that arise.

What is the difference between Entry Level Water Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectEntry Level Water OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsBasic water operator certification, often requiredAdvanced certifications, including state-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles in water treatment facilities, fieldworkMore experienced roles managing plant operations
Job ResponsibilitiesMonitoring equipment, basic maintenance, data recordingOperating complex systems, troubleshooting, plant management

Entry Level Water Operators typically hold basic certifications and perform foundational tasks in water treatment facilities. Water Treatment Plant Operators usually require advanced certifications and oversee more complex operations. Both roles are essential in water industry operations, but the Water Treatment Plant Operator position involves greater responsibility and expertise.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Operator jobs in California?

For Entry Level Water Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Water Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Water Operator job openings:

Entry Level Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,851 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Water Supply Operator I

Essel

Pomona, CA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general
supervision.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and treatment equipment such as:
    • Pumping systems
    • Chemical feed systems
    • Water storage facilities
    • Measuring and control systems
    • Interagency control valves and meters
    • Pressure Reducing/Sustaining Valves
  • Assists with the maintenance of plant equipment and facilities
  • Performs water level measurements on groundwater wells
  • Loads and unloads chemicals
  • Performs basic laboratory analytical techniques on water samples
  • Collects samples for analytical purposes
  • Performs calculations related to dosing, flow rates, pressure and other weights and measures associated with water supply and treatment operations
  • Complies with all safety standards and practices as they pertain to equipment, facility operations and chemical handling
  • Available for emergency response, 24 hours/day, seven days/week
  • Must reside within 25 miles of the nearest water system boundary where assigned in order to respond to emergencies.
  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • The above job description is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills or competencies associated with this job.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Familiar with computer applications such as Windows, word processing, spreadsheets

POSITION DESCRIPTION
  • 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 must obtain within 18 months of employment or position start date.
  • Good communication (both written and verbal) and organizational skills
  • Valid California driver license
  • May include working in all weather conditions, during all hours of the day.
  • Physical demands include but are not limited to standing, climbing, walking, lifting, bending, pulling and/or pushing, grasping, reaching, stooping and crouching, sitting, typing, walking, reading, writing, color determination, speaking and listening for extended periods of time.

TECHNICAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
  • One year as a Water Distribution Operator or two years experience in the water utility

industry OR a combination of water utility experience and education that demonstrates a moderate level of knowledge and understanding of water distribution, supply and treatment operations OR an Associate degree in Water Technology, Distribution, or Treatment, or a similar math and science-based curriculum from an accredited educational institution or program
  • Basic math skills
  • Knowledge of basic plumbing skills
  • Understanding of safe, efficient and effective work practices and procedures.
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About Essel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services and temporary help services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

San Francisco, CA, US

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