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Sewer Machine Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Extruder Operator

Lodi, CA

$24.59 - $31.54/hr

... sewer, plumbing, water well, pool and spa, and agricultural and turf irrigation. Westlake Pipe ... Monitor and make proper machine adjustments as required to ensure product quality, safe operation ...

Plumber/Drain Cleaning

San Jose, CA · On-site

$31 - $37/hr (+ commission)

Well $15 Sewer and Drain Company is the oldest locally owned and operated residential plumbing ... We gear our techs up with all the necessary machines, color cameras and access to all tools you ...

Plumber/Drain Cleaning

San Jose, CA · On-site

$31 - $37/hr (+ commission)

Well $15 Sewer and Drain Company is the oldest locally owned and operated residential plumbing ... We gear our techs up with all the necessary machines, color cameras and access to all tools you ...

$75 - $100/hr

... excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements at our East Bay branch, located in ... Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with ...

CA · On-site

Knowledge of construction machinery, capacities, and safe operating procedures. * Capable of ... Capability to operate mid to large class excavators in order to dig mainline sewer, storm and water ...

Excavator Operator

Livermore, CA · On-site

$17 - $24/hr

... excavator for sewer & water service repairs/replacements at our East Bay branch, located in ... Operates back-hoe, mini-excavator, skid steers, and/or other excavation machinery equipped with ...

Previous drain/sewer experience * Experience operating sewer drain machines * Valid driver's license and clean driving record * Reliable, hardworking, and professional * Strong communication and ...

Showing results 21-40

Sewer Machine Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do sewer machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for sewer machine operator in California is $17.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sewer machine operator?

Sewer Machine Operators are skilled workers who operate specialized equipment to clean, maintain, and repair sewer lines and drainage systems. Their main responsibilities include using machines such as jetters, augers, and vacuum trucks to clear blockages, remove debris, and ensure the proper flow of wastewater. They also perform routine inspections, document maintenance activities, and follow safety protocols to protect themselves and the environment. This role is essential for preventing sewage backups, minimizing environmental hazards, and maintaining public health in communities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sewer machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sewer Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, basic plumbing knowledge, physical stamina, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sewer cleaning equipment, CCTV inspection systems, and adherence to safety protocols are essential, and some employers may require a CDL or relevant safety certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication enable operators to diagnose issues and work safely within teams. These skills ensure efficient maintenance of sewer systems, prevent environmental hazards, and promote workplace safety.

What are some common challenges faced by sewer machine operators and how can they be overcome?

Sewer Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined or hazardous environments, dealing with blockages that require precise troubleshooting, and maintaining equipment to prevent breakdowns. Effective communication with team members and adherence to safety protocols are essential for overcoming these challenges. Ongoing training and regular equipment checks also help operators stay prepared for unexpected issues, ensuring safe and efficient workflow.

What is the difference between Sewer Machine Operator vs Drain Cleaner?

AspectSewer Machine OperatorDrain Cleaner
CertificationsOSHA safety training, equipment operation certificationsBasic safety training, possibly specialized certifications for equipment
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, sewer systems, underground infrastructureResidential and commercial drain systems, often accessible above ground
Job ResponsibilitiesOperating heavy machinery to clean or repair sewer linesClearing blockages, snaking drains, minor repairs

Both Sewer Machine Operators and Drain Cleaners work in the plumbing and sewer industry, often requiring safety certifications. Sewer Machine Operators typically handle heavy equipment in underground or large-scale sewer systems, while Drain Cleaners focus on clearing blockages in accessible drain lines. The roles overlap in industry and safety training but differ mainly in scope and work environment.

What job categories do people searching Sewer Machine Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Sewer Machine Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sewer Machine Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sewer Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Sewer Machine 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 $37,331 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

$24.59 - $31.54/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Westlake Chemical rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 103 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

Westlake Pipe & Fittings, a Westlake division (NYSE:WLK), is one of the largest polyvinyl chloride pipe and fittings manufacturer in North America. With 23 manufacturing and distribution locations, the company supplies gasketed, solvent weld and restrained joint pipes and a wide range of fittings for a diverse list of markets including municipal water and sewer, plumbing, water well, pool and spa, and agricultural and turf irrigation. Westlake Pipe & Fittings is an industry leader in product development with Certa-Lok spline-lock technology and product systems that are focused on building A Better Foundation. To learn more, visit the website at WestlakePipe.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

SUMMARY

The production operator is assigned to a specific work area on a production shift. They are responsible for the efficient operation of the production equipment and required to perform the following duties.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Must work safely and maintain a safe, clean work environment, and perform available work as required by the supervisor.
  • Responsible for startup, adjustment, and shut down of the extruder, haul off, saw, die, oil heater, steam tank, water tank, and auxiliary equipment.
  • Must be able to read, operate and understand all controls and warning devices along with making die, motor RPM, temperature, and pipe wall adjustments for producing products according to manufacturing standards with minimum supervision.
  • Must perform detailed and accurate record-keeping in computer data system.
  • Must be familiar with product standards and specifications.
  • Must inspect pipe on-line as required and each finished pack or reel before adding it to finished inventory.
  • Comply with all Company policies and procedures.
  • Start up and shut down an extrusion line.
  • An A level operator perform all duties required of Production "C" and "B" operators.
  • Assist in the training of Production "C" and "B" operators.
  • A C or B Operator performs all duties and SOPs as listed in the Quality Manual.
  • Prepare production reports and maintain records of machine settings.
  • Monitor and make proper machine adjustments as required to ensure product quality, safe operation and optimal output of assigned production lines.
  • Demonstrated ability to make die changes.
  • Other duties as required.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

High School diploma or equivalent required. No prior experience or training.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is frequently exposed to extreme cold and extreme heat. The employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across several US markets. The base pay range for this position is $24.59 to $31.54 per hour. This range is based on relevant market data in our lowest and highest geographic markets. Pay is based on several factors including market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, experience and skillset. Westlake is a total compensation company. Dependent on the position offered, sign on payments, and other forms of compensation may be provided as part of a total compensation package (also to include a full range of medical and other benefits).

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here.You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.


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