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Wastewater Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

kennedyjc

Wastewater Process Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · Hybrid

$84K/yr

This role supports municipal wastewater treatment and infrastructure projects locally and nationally, including planning, process design, facility upgrades, optimization, and regulatory compliance.

City of Santa Rosa

Wastewater Operator I/II

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$93K - $125K/yr

Wastewater Operator I : $93,809.00- $113,985.00Annually Wastewater Operator II : $102,132.00- $125,392.00Annually The Benefits of City Employment In addition to offering a rewarding work environment ...

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All JobsWastewater JobsWastewater Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Wastewater information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$16

$28

$42

How much do wastewater jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater in Santa Rosa, CA is $28.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wastewater operator?

Wastewater operators are professionals responsible for the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants. They monitor and adjust equipment, manage the treatment process, and ensure that water released into the environment meets regulatory standards. Their role is essential for protecting public health and the environment by treating sewage and industrial waste safely and effectively. Wastewater operators also conduct routine testing, keep detailed records, and respond to emergencies or system malfunctions.

What are the qualifications to get a wastewater job?

The qualifications for a wastewater job include a high school diploma or GED certificate and on-the-job training. Many employees prefer job candidates with an associate or a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field. States also require a license for wastewater positions, with requirements varying depending on where you live. Pursuing certification may improve your employment opportunities and help with advancement to supervisory positions. The American Water Works Association offers several accreditation programs. Wastewater jobs often involve physically demanding work, which requires physical fitness. Excellent mechanical and technical skills are also necessary to operate the equipment efficiently.

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 maintenance tools is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and compliant operation of wastewater treatment facilities, protecting public health and the environment.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in wastewater treatment, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in wastewater treatment often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable influent quality, maintaining complex equipment, and adhering to strict environmental regulations. Staying current with technological advancements, participating in ongoing training, and collaborating closely with maintenance and laboratory teams can help overcome these obstacles. Additionally, clear communication with regulatory agencies and proactive problem-solving are key to ensuring compliance and efficient plant operations.

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

AspectWastewaterWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWastewater Treatment Certification, State LicensesWater Treatment Certification, State Licenses
Work EnvironmentWastewater treatment plants, sewer systemsWater treatment facilities, drinking water plants
Industry UsageMunicipal, industrial wastewater managementMunicipal, public water supply management

Wastewater and Water Treatment Plant Operators both work in water-related industries, often requiring similar certifications and working in treatment facilities. Wastewater operators focus on treating sewage and industrial effluents, while water treatment operators manage drinking water supplies. Their roles are distinct but complementary within water management systems.

More about Wastewater jobs

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For Wastewater jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wastewater jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Wastewater jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Wastewater jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Wastewater job openings:

Wastewater jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,629 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Wastewater Process Engineer

kennedyjc

Santa Rosa, CA • Hybrid

$84K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a motivated Wastewater Process Engineer to join our growing Wastewater Infrastructure team in California. This role supports municipal wastewater treatment and infrastructure projects locally and nationally, including planning, process design, facility upgrades, optimization, and regulatory compliance. Candidates who are ready to take on increasing technical responsibility, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and contribute to practical solutions for municipal clients are encouraged to apply.

What You’ll Do

As a Wastewater Process Engineer, you’ll support the planning, design, and delivery of municipal wastewater treatment and infrastructure solutions.

  • Support project planning and delivery: Contribute to feasibility studies, facility planning, treatment plant upgrades, expansions, pump stations, collection system improvements, and related municipal wastewater infrastructure projects.
  • Perform process design and evaluations: Develop and evaluate physical, chemical, and biological treatment systems, including capacity, performance, regulatory, and alternatives analyses.
  • Prepare technical deliverables: Develop calculations, drawings, specifications, design reports, technical memoranda, and compliance-related documentation.
  • Coordinate with project stakeholders: Work with project managers, process leads, multidisciplinary teams, clients, and regulatory agencies to support technical discussions, permitting, and compliance needs.
  • Assist with project management: Help develop scopes, budgets, schedules, and coordinated work plans.
  • Mentor and continue learning: Provide guidance to junior staff where appropriate and stay current on wastewater industry standards, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements.
What Makes This Role Different
  • Work with purpose: Help deliver wastewater solutions that protect public health, promote environmental stewardship, and strengthen community infrastructure.
  • Create practical client value: Shape solutions that improve reliability, efficiency, and long-term system performance.
  • Influence strong project outcomes: Apply process insight that helps teams make informed technical decisions and produce high-quality outcomes.
What You Bring
  • Sound engineering judgment: A thoughtful, analytical approach to evaluating challenges, comparing alternatives, and recommending practical next steps.
  • Client-focused collaboration: A service-oriented approach to working with clients, project teams, regulators, and stakeholders.
  • Clear communication: The ability to present technical information in a clear, organized, and audience-appropriate way.
  • Reliable follow-through: Attention to detail, responsiveness, and commitment to producing quality work.
Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Civil, Environmental, Chemical, or a related engineering field.
  • Experience: 5+ years of relevant experience in municipal wastewater treatment engineering, wastewater process engineering, or related wastewater infrastructure projects.
  • Technical knowledge: Familiarity with wastewater treatment processes, regulations, technologies, system design, optimization, technical reporting, and compliance documentation.
  • Certifications or licenses: Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification required; Professional Engineer (PE) license in California preferred or ability to obtain.
  • Travel: Willingness to travel as needed for project sites, client meetings, and collaboration with Kennedy Jenks offices.

Kennedy Jenks supports a healthy work-life balance and utilizes a hybrid model of home and office work, with a minimum of two days per week in the office. This approach empowers our people to thrive, collaborate, and do their best work.

Salary range for this position is anticipated to be between $84,000 and $169,000, and may vary based upon education, experience, qualifications, licensure/certifications, and geographic location.

Benefits summary: Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance; a health savings account; a 401(k); bonus programs; tuition reimbursement; employee ownership opportunity; professional registration support; business travel assistance; competitive paid time off and holidays; an employee assistance program; and additional programs that support your wellbeing and professional growth.

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