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Wastewater Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... Evoqua - High Purity Water & Wastewater Commissioning / Field Service Engineer The High Purity ...

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... Evoqua - High Purity Water & Wastewater Commissioning / Field Service Engineer The High Purity ...

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Wastewater Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$16

$26

$40

How much do wastewater operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in Riverside, CA is $26.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectWastewater OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWastewater Treatment CertificationWater Treatment Certification
Work EnvironmentWastewater treatment facilities, sewer systemsWater treatment plants, drinking water facilities
Industry UsageMunicipal and industrial wastewater managementMunicipal and industrial water supply
Job FocusManaging wastewater processing and dischargeManaging drinking water quality and distribution

While both roles involve water management and require similar certifications, Wastewater Operators focus on treating and managing wastewater, whereas Water Treatment Plant Operators handle potable water production. Both are essential in water industry operations and often work in similar environments, but their specific responsibilities differ based on the type of water they manage.

What are some common challenges wastewater operators face during routine plant operations?

Wastewater Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, responding to unexpected system alarms, and ensuring compliance with strict environmental regulations. Adapting to changes in influent flow or composition, especially during storms or industrial discharges, can require quick problem-solving and teamwork. Operators must also stay current with evolving technologies and safety practices, making ongoing training an important part of the role.

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

To thrive as a Wastewater Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, chemistry, and safety regulations, usually supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and mechanical maintenance tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help operators manage complex systems and respond to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe and efficient treatment of wastewater, protecting public health and the environment.

What is a wastewater operator?

Wastewater operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining the systems and equipment that treat municipal or industrial wastewater. They monitor, operate, and adjust controls to ensure that water treatment processes comply with environmental regulations and public health standards. Their duties include inspecting equipment, collecting water samples, conducting tests, and keeping detailed records. Wastewater operators play a crucial role in protecting water resources and ensuring clean, safe water for communities.
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Wastewater Operator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Wastewater Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $55,944 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Field Service Engineer - Wastewater

Xylem

Irvine, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Xylem rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

294th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Xylem is a Fortune 500 global water solutions company dedicated to advancing sustainable impact and empowering the people who make water work every day. As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem is at the forefront of addressing the world's most critical water challenges. We invite passionate individuals to join our team, dedicated to exceeding customer expectations through innovative and sustainable solutions.

Evoqua - High Purity Water & Wastewater Commissioning / Field Service Engineer

The High Purity Water & Wastewater Commissioning / Field Service Engineer is responsible for troubleshooting, commissioning, startup, and service of complex water treatment systems. This role includes performing system installation verification, startup activities, field testing, and providing technical support to customers.

We are looking for a hands-on Field Process Engineer to lead the startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting of complex water and wastewater treatment systems. This role is highly field-focused, requiring extensive travel and direct collaboration with customers and project teams to ensure systems perform to design and quality standards.What You'll Do:
  • Lead commissioning and startup of high purity water and wastewater systems
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and process issues and drive solutions
  • Conduct site surveys, system testing, and performance validation
  • Work with PLC controls (Allen-Bradley, Siemens) and process instrumentation
  • Work on various low-voltage and power systems including 24 VDC, 120 VAC, 220 VAC, 208/277 VAC, 480 VAC
  • Interpret and update P&IDs, schematics, and technical documentation
  • Provide on-site customer training and technical support
  • Support equipment maintenance, including pumps, valves, and piping systems
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards and procedures
What You'll Bring:
  • 5+ years of experience in field service, commissioning, or startup
  • Background in water treatment, wastewater, or high purity systems
  • Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills
  • Experience with PLCs and control systems
  • Ability to read P&IDs and engineering drawings
  • Ability to trave up to 85% (domestic and international)
  • Must have Valid driver's license
  • Ability to work in industrial environments and lift up to 70 lbs
  • Preferred - Bilingual in Spanish and English
The estimated salary range for this position is $90,000 to $120,000.Starting pay is dependent on multiple factors, such as skills, experience and work location, and is not typically at the top of the range. At Xylem we offer a competitive compensation package with a generous benefit package, including Medical, Dental, Vision plans, 401(k) with company contribution, paid time off, paid parental leave and tuition reimbursement.

Join the global Xylem team to be a part of innovative technology solutions transforming water usage, conservation, and re-use. Our products impact public utilities, industrial sectors, residential areas, and commercial buildings, with a commitment to providing smart metering, network technologies, and advanced analytics for water, electric, and gas utilities. Partner with us in creating a world where water challenges are met with ingenuity and dedication; where we recognize the power of inclusion and belonging in driving innovation and allowing us to compete more effectively around the world.

At Xylem, you'll not only contribute to solving water issues but also have the chance to make a difference through our paid Volunteer Program, Xylem Watermark. We prioritize our employees' well-being through inclusion and belonging as well as our Employee Resource Groups (ERG). Proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity (including disability and veterans) and Affirmative Action workplace, Xylem fosters an inclusive environment free from discrimination or harassment.

Please note that the information in this job description outlines the general nature of the position and is not an exhaustive list of duties. Xylem is dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to enable all employees to perform their essential job functions. We reserve the right to modify this job description and assign additional duties as needed. Embrace the opportunity to be part of Xylem's transformative journey in shaping the future of water technology! #XylemCareers #GlobalImpact #WaterInnovation


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