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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

... operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It ... Operates and maintains water treatment, processing, distribution, installation and testing ...

Operator I

Rialto, CA ยท On-site

... operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It ... Operates and maintains water treatment, processing, distribution, installation and testing ...

Apply Early

Grade D2 Water Distribution Operator Certificate. * Grade T2 Water Treatment Operator Certificate. * Experience preparing advanced engineering exhibits and GIS mapping. * Strong understanding of ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Fontana, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Grade D2 Water Distribution Operator Certificate. * Grade T2 Water Treatment Operator Certificate. * Experience preparing advanced engineering exhibits and GIS mapping. * Strong understanding of ...

Grade D2 Water Distribution Operator Certificate. * Grade T2 Water Treatment Operator Certificate. * Experience preparing advanced engineering exhibits and GIS mapping. * Strong understanding of ...

... Operating Procedures (SOP). * Working knowledge of MEP standards and operations, safe work ... Evaporative Cooling Towers, Pumps, and Water Distribution Systems * Air Handling Units

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... operating results and life expectancy. Can include HVAC, boiler, heating, refrigeration, water, and ... Maintain, operate, and repair all HVAC systems and associated equipment, electrical distribution ...

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... water distribution, treatment and hydroelectric system parts and equipment for emergency and CM ... safe operating techniques and the occupational hazards of motorized or pneumatic equipment ...

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Riverside, CA is $27.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $31.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Water Distribution Operators?

Water Distribution Operators are professionals responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of clean drinking water to homes, businesses, and other facilities. They monitor water distribution systems, maintain equipment such as pipes, pumps, and valves, and test water quality to comply with health and safety regulations. These operators also respond to emergencies like leaks or contamination and keep detailed records of system performance. Their work is essential for public health and the reliable operation of municipal water systems.

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

AspectWater Distribution OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater Distribution Certification, State LicensingWater Treatment Certification, State Licensing
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, maintaining pipelines, valves, and metersPlant environment, operating treatment equipment
Job FocusDistributing potable water, repairing infrastructureTreating water to meet safety standards
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, utility companiesWater treatment facilities, municipal agencies

While both roles involve working with water systems, the Water Distribution Operator primarily manages the distribution network, ensuring safe water delivery, whereas the Water Treatment Plant Operator focuses on treating water to meet health standards. Certifications and work environments differ, but both are essential for maintaining safe and reliable water services.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Distribution Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Water Distribution Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to emergency repairs, maintaining water quality standards, and managing aging infrastructure. These situations require quick problem-solving, clear communication with team members, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Staying up-to-date with training and industry regulations can help operators handle these challenges efficiently, while strong teamwork ensures that issues are resolved promptly to maintain uninterrupted water service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Distribution Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Distribution Operator, you need a solid understanding of water distribution systems, hydraulics, and basic math, typically supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help operators quickly identify and resolve issues while coordinating with team members. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safe, reliable delivery of potable water and compliance with regulatory standards.
What are popular job titles related to Water Distribution Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Water Distribution Operator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Water Distribution Operator job openings:

Water Operator I

Veolia Environnement SA

Rialto, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It offers a full spectrum of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. Veolia helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education and municipality customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Veolia has more than 10,000 employees working at more than 350 locations across North America.
Job Description
Position Purpose:
Operates and maintains water treatment, processing, distribution, installation and testing equipment in water distribution and treatment system and facility and to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements.
Primary Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Performs manual labor including filling and emptying of machine bins and cleaning equipment, installing lines and meters, work in facilities and grounds as required. Performs minor maintenance including, but not limited to, routine preventive maintenance, lubrication and minor adjustments. Operates vehicles for plant operational and system maintenance purposes. Practices good housekeeping in assigned area and properly disposes of waste according to safety and environmental policies.
  • Monitors flow meters, gauges, flow ratios, pressures and related controls through instrument panels, computer terminals and programmable logic control units in assigned area. Monitors and records operating conditions observations and data in area shift log. Ensures conformance to process specifications. Diagnoses basic operational problems and takes corrective action per procedure. Verifies and reports suspected malfunctions and variances to supervisor and takes corrective actions. Performs routine and preventative maintenance and maintenance related items as assigned.
  • Tends automatic and semi-automatic machines and related equipment including pumps, engines, generators, valves, gates, mixers, conveyors, blowers, chemical feed and vacuum filters used to decontaminate water by settling, aeration and filtration. Monitors control panels and adjusts valves and gates manually or by remote control to regulate flow.
  • Performs field tests (chemical, physical and biological) in order to pace chemical dosages for process control units or alter unit processes. Samples water according to schedule. Prepares chemical solutions and services automatic samplers. Monitors process chemical supplies and recommends reorder.
  • Performs routine lab tests. Performs routine instrument calibration for portable meters including, but not limited to, dissolved oxygen, pH, percent oxygen, lower explosive limit.
  • Assists in other areas of plant as needed.
  • Performs a variety of manual functions. Follows established procedures to perform standardized or routine tasks. Must follow established operational, process control, compliance and safety and emergency response procedures. Must adhere to specifications and schedule. May suggest process improvements.
  • Uses initiative in carrying out recurring assignments. Waits for direction for next steps or assignments outside of routine. Keeps supervisor informed of problems.

Work Environment:
  • Spends 100% of time in operations environment.
  • May need to work outside in inclement weather conditions and drive company vehicle to perform duties.
  • Possible Work Hazards: May be exposed to possible operations hazards including fumes, toxic and caustic chemicals, heavy machinery, high pressure, hot or cold work environment temperatures, slippery surfaces, water hazards and electrical equipment.

Qualifications
Education/Experience/Background:
  • High School Diploma/GED is required.
  • One to two years of experience in a related position and environment with knowledge of the methods, techniques, and practices of water treatment and distribution.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Must have the ability to read, write and comprehend English (operational, process, safety and quality instructions).
  • Must have the ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
  • Must consistently demonstrate the ability to learn and independently operate assigned machines and equipment meeting or exceeding processing and quality targets.
  • Must demonstrate ability to learn and independently operate equipment such as pumps, engines, centrifuge, generators, valves, gates, mixers, conveyors, blowers, dryers, chemical feed, odor control, disinfection equipment, sludge processing filters, belt presses and measuring/control devices, testing equipment and material handling equipment.
  • Must demonstrate a working ability to use computer programs for process control.
  • Must demonstrate ability to work in a team environment and willingness to assume additional or new responsibilities readily.
  • Must be able to serve rotational 24-hour emergency on call if required by site.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training:
  • Holds a first level treatment and distribution certificate (CA T1 and D1). (Requires minimum water license as required by regulatory agencies at site).
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and a safe driving record.
  • Employee Orientation, Departmental Operating Procedures, Safety, OSHA and Quality Training.
  • HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) Level I and II certification within 6 months of hire date if required by site.
  • Cross-training if feasible.
  • Must become proficient in the care and use of all site specific, facility required PPE (Personal Protection Equipment), including respirators, gas detectors, confined space equipment, etc.)
  • Work toward higher level water treatment certification.
  • May perform more advanced functions as part of training and development.

Physical Requirements:
  • Amount of time spent - Standing 25%, Walking 75% for as many as five miles per shift.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch and enter confined spaces.
  • May be required to use ladders or stairs.
  • The employee must lift and/or move up to 50 pounds (occasionally 60 pounds).
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus. Requires close visual observation to detect process non-conformance and machine malfunction.

Additional Information
Pay Rate: $36.18 per hour.
Benefits: Our employees are covered by comprehensive benefits packages including paid time off policies; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; retirement plans, savings accounts; tuition reimbursement; paid volunteering and more.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.