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Entry Wastewater Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Field Supervisor l

Sparks, NV ยท On-site

$26.03 - $33.80/hr

From emergency spill response to hazardous waste transportation to wastewater treatment, or from ... Typing and data entry on a frequent daily basis. * Lift and carry up to 50 lbs. on a frequent daily ...

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Entry Wastewater information

See Reno, NV salary details

$15

$25

$38

How much do entry wastewater jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry wastewater in Reno, NV is $25.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $28.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry wastewater operator?

Entry-level wastewater jobs typically involve assisting in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities. Common duties include monitoring equipment, collecting water samples, performing basic laboratory tests, and helping ensure compliance with environmental regulations. These positions often require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is usually provided. Entry-level wastewater workers play a crucial role in protecting public health and the environment by helping treat and manage wastewater safely.

What is the difference between Entry Wastewater vs Entry Water Treatment Operator?

AspectEntry WastewaterEntry Water Treatment Operator
CertificationsTypically requires wastewater treatment certifications or licensesRequires water treatment certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentWorks at wastewater treatment plants, handling sewage and industrial wasteWorks at water treatment plants, managing drinking water supplies
Industry UsageCommonly employed in municipal and industrial wastewater facilitiesEmployed in municipal and industrial water treatment facilities
Job FocusFocuses on wastewater collection, treatment, and disposalFocuses on water purification, distribution, and quality control

Both roles involve operating treatment equipment and require relevant certifications. While they share similar environments and industry usage, their primary focus differs: wastewater vs drinking water treatment. Understanding these distinctions helps candidates choose the right career path in the water industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an entry wastewater operator?

To thrive as an Entry-Level Wastewater Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, basic math and science knowledge, and in some regions, a wastewater operator certification. Familiarity with water testing equipment, pumps, valves, and SCADA systems is often required, along with the ability to follow safety protocols. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and reliability are important soft skills for effectively monitoring plant operations and responding to issues. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure regulatory compliance, protect public health, and maintain efficient plant performance.

What challenges do entry wastewater operators face and how can they be addressed?

Entry-level wastewater operators often encounter challenges such as learning complex treatment processes, adapting to shift work, and managing the physical demands of the job. New operators may need time to become comfortable with monitoring equipment, troubleshooting issues, and following strict safety protocols. These challenges can be addressed through hands-on training, mentorship from experienced staff, and continuous learning about regulatory requirements and best practices. A supportive team environment and open communication can also help new operators build confidence and competence.
Infographic showing various Entry Wastewater job openings in Reno, NV as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,467 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Project Manager/Estimator-Water & Wastewater Treatment Systems

Kimmel & Associates

Reno, NV โ€ข On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About the Company

Our client is an established civil construction organization specializing in complex infrastructure projects and public works. The company delivers critical infrastructure that supports communities and municipalities, with a strong focus on quality, safety, technical expertise, and dependable project execution.

As the Civil Division continues to grow its presence in the water and wastewater infrastructure market, the organization is seeking an experienced construction professional who can contribute across both preconstruction and project delivery.

This is an excellent opportunity for a water/wastewater professional who wants to play a key role in winning and successfully delivering technically complex infrastructure projects.

About the Position

We are seeking a Project Manager / Estimator Water & Wastewater Systems to lead the estimating, planning, and execution of projects involving water and wastewater treatment infrastructure.

This role combines civil construction project management with technical estimating and requires a strong understanding of environmental infrastructure, public utility systems, and regulatory requirements.

The successful candidate will have hands-on experience with projects such as water and wastewater treatment plants, pump stations, pipelines, tanks, clarifiers, filtration systems, and chemical feed facilities.

The Project Manager / Estimator will work closely with owners, municipalities, engineers, subcontractors, vendors, inspectors, and internal field teams to develop competitive estimates and deliver projects safely, efficiently, and profitably.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management

  • Lead the end-to-end delivery of water and wastewater treatment projects.
  • Manage projects involving treatment plants, pump stations, pipelines, tanks, clarifiers, filtration systems, and chemical feed facilities.
  • Coordinate civil, mechanical, electrical, controls, and instrumentation scopes to ensure seamless project execution.
  • Develop and manage project schedules, milestones, budgets, and cost controls.
  • Conduct regular jobsite visits and oversee quality, safety, schedule, and production.
  • Collaborate with engineers, owners, subcontractors, vendors, and inspectors throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Identify potential project risks and develop solutions to minimize impacts to cost and schedule.

Estimating & Preconstruction

  • Analyze plans, specifications, bid documents, and contract requirements to develop accurate project estimates.
  • Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for earthwork, piping, concrete, process equipment, electrical, controls, and instrumentation.
  • Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and vendor proposals.
  • Prepare competitive and comprehensive bid proposals.
  • Participate in value engineering and constructability reviews to identify opportunities for cost savings.
  • Develop and maintain current unit pricing for water and wastewater construction components.
  • Support business development and project pursuit efforts as needed.

Regulatory & Compliance

  • Ensure project execution complies with applicable environmental, public health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
  • Work with requirements established by agencies such as the EPA, OSHA, SWRCB, and municipal authorities.
  • Understand and implement project-specific requirements related to NPDES permits, confined-space entry, trench safety, process containment, and related compliance requirements.
  • Support implementation of SWPPP and QA/QC requirements.

Client & Stakeholder Management

  • Serve as a primary point of contact for owners, municipalities, utilities, consultants, and other project stakeholders.
  • Represent the company during preconstruction meetings, OAC meetings, site meetings, and commissioning activities.
  • Build and maintain strong client relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Evaluate field changes and coordinate solutions that minimize impacts to scope, schedule, and budget.

Project Documentation & Financial Controls

  • Maintain comprehensive project documentation, including submittals, RFIs, meeting minutes, schedules, and progress photos.
  • Prepare change orders, pay applications, and as-built documentation.
  • Monitor project costs, production, and performance metrics.
  • Track financial and operational data through project closeout.
  • Participate in post-project reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

  • 5+ years of experience managing and/or estimating water and wastewater infrastructure projects.
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred.
  • Demonstrated experience with water/wastewater treatment facilities, pump stations, pipelines, or related infrastructure.
  • Strong understanding of treatment processes, piping systems, concrete structures, process equipment, and heavy equipment planning.
  • Experience with public works bidding procedures and compliance documentation.
  • Ability to read and interpret civil construction drawings, grading plans, utility plans, specifications, and related project documents.
  • Proficiency with estimating software such as HCSS, HeavyBid, or similar platforms.
  • Experience with scheduling tools such as MS Project or comparable software.
  • Experience with both Design-Bid-Build and Design-Build delivery models.
  • Familiarity with SWPPP requirements, confined-space entry programs, and QA/QC procedures for water and wastewater treatment systems.
  • Experience with DOT, municipal, public works, or other infrastructure contracts.
  • California Professional Engineer (P.E.) license, or the ability to obtain one, is a plus.
  • Experience coordinating civil, mechanical, electrical, controls, and instrumentation scopes.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • Retirement plan with company contribution
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Professional development and career advancement opportunities
  • Opportunity to work on complex, high-impact water and wastewater infrastructure projects
  • Collaborative environment with experienced construction and engineering professionals

Kimmel & Associates logo

About Kimmel & Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kimmel & Associates, based in Asheville, NC, US, is recognized as the premier leader in the executive search and recruitment industry. The company, in operation since 1981, serves numerous industries including construction, supply chain, waste, and recycling, specialty contractors, and private equity. Utilizing their exceptional knowledge and robust industry connections, they assist clients by filling crucial executive and managerial roles that directly impact business performance and growth. The company is guided by a strong corporate philosophy centered on respect, listening, humility, and continuous improvement. Their mission is to foster enduring relationships and to help industries thrive by connecting the brightest talent with superior companies.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Asheville, NC, US

Year founded

1981

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