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Entry Level Water Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

WSP is currently initiating a search for an Entry Level Structural Engineer for our Lake Oswego ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

Requisition ID: 179509 Job Level: Entry Level Home District/Group: Kiewit Equipment Services ... normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and ...

WSP is currently initiating a search for an Entry Level Structural Engineer for our Lake Oswego ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

Showing results 21-28

Entry Level Water Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$18

$22

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water operator in Portland, OR is $18.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Water Operator jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Water Operator job openings:

Structural Engineer

WSP

Lake Oswego, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description


WSP is currently initiating a search for an Entry Level Structural Engineer for our Lake Oswego, Oregon office. Be involved in projects with our Pacific Civil/Structural Substation team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges.
This Opportunity
Takes part in providing local technical assistance for all aspects of electrical substation structural design, including foundation, structure, rigid bus, and control building design. Tasks may include basic assistance with research, design, concept development, and construction of substation structures and foundations. Generates accurate and concise documentation regarding assigned aspects of the project. Ensures that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards for design, safety, structural soundness, and functionality.
Your Impact
  • The successful candidate will be involved in all aspects of structural design for substations, including permitting, structure and foundation design, and support of substation physical design and equipment layout.
  • Perform routine engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on various design requirements.
  • Preparation of calculation packages to satisfy client, code, and WSP requirements.
  • Coordinate with all disciplines contributing to electrical substation design.
  • Evaluate constructability of electrical substations.
  • Assure plans adhere to client and WSP standards.
  • Generate complete, accurate, and concise documentation using electronic systems, drawings, 2D/3D illustrations, and work site notebook/logs.
  • Comply with safety guidelines and site-specific procedures which include but are not limited to, location data, statistical documentation, engineering studies and surveys, and construction.
  • Complete training on assigned tasks.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources, and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • BSCE (Bachelor of Science in Civil or Structural Engineering) degree from an ABET accredited college.
  • 0 to 1 years of relevant post education experience.
  • Basic understanding of structural analysis, including steel and concrete design, soil mechanics, and foundation design.
  • Excellent research skills with analytical mindset.
  • Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.
  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
  • Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, software, spreadsheets, technology, and tools.
  • Knowledge of building codes and standards (ASCE, ACI, AISC, etc)
  • Familiarity with discipline-specific design software (i.e., RISA 3D, RISA Foundation, L-Pile, MathCAD).
  • Strong command of the English language with good written and oral communication skills in order to work effectively with internal team members and external client personnel.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to occasionally work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Engineer in Training Certification.
  • Prior internship related to the degree of study and the specific engineering discipline.
  • A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.

Disclaimer
  • Hybrid work opportunities are available.
  • Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

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About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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