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Entry Level Water Treatment Jobs in Riverside, CA

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA

... 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:

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

... 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:

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

... 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:

All JobsWater Treatment JobsEntry Level Water Treatment JobsEntry Level Water Treatment Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Water Treatment information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$25

$37

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level water treatment in Riverside, CA is $25.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level water treatment operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Water Treatment Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, basic math and science knowledge, and the ability to follow safety protocols. Familiarity with water testing equipment, pumps, chemical dosing systems, and sometimes state certification is important. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help operators respond to issues and maintain compliance. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient water treatment operations and protect public health.

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

Entry-level water treatment operators often encounter challenges such as learning to operate and troubleshoot complex equipment, adhering to strict safety and environmental regulations, and managing shift work that may include nights or weekends. Overcoming these challenges typically involves thorough on-the-job training, mentorship from experienced staff, and continuous learning through certification programs. Building strong communication skills and attention to detail will also help new operators adapt quickly and contribute effectively to the team.

What is the difference between Entry Level Water Treatment vs Water Treatment Technician?

AspectEntry Level Water TreatmentWater Treatment Technician
CertificationsBasic certifications like OSHA, HAZWOPER, or state-specific licensesTypically requires similar certifications, with some roles demanding additional state licenses
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles often involve supervised work at treatment plants or facilitiesMore hands-on, operational tasks at water treatment plants or distribution sites
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with water testing, equipment maintenance, and data recordingPerforming water quality testing, equipment troubleshooting, and system monitoring

In summary, Entry Level Water Treatment roles are designed for newcomers, focusing on basic tasks and training, while Water Treatment Technicians handle more advanced operational duties. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, but technicians typically have more experience and responsibility.

What is an entry level water treatment operator?

Entry level water treatment jobs involve assisting in the operation and maintenance of water treatment plants or facilities. Workers in these roles help monitor equipment, collect and test water samples, and ensure water treatment processes run smoothly to provide safe drinking water or properly treated wastewater. These jobs typically require a high school diploma and on-the-job training, though some employers may prefer candidates with technical certifications. Entry level positions are a great starting point for a career in environmental services or utilities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Treatment jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Water Treatment jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Treatment jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Water Treatment jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Water Treatment jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Water Treatment jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Water Treatment jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Water Treatment job openings:
Entry Level Water Treatment jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Treatment job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,252 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Water Supply Operator I

Essel

Pomona, CA

Contractor

Re-posted 18 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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