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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

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Water Distribution Operator information

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$13

$27

$42

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 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 is a water distribution operator?

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 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 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 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.

Are water distribution operators in high demand?

Water distribution operators are in high demand due to ongoing infrastructure needs and the importance of maintaining safe drinking water. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as utilities seek skilled workers to operate and maintain water systems, often requiring certifications and technical knowledge.

How much does a water distribution operator make?

The average salary for a water distribution operator in California ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Is it hard to become a water distribution operator?

Becoming a water distribution operator typically requires completing relevant training, obtaining a state certification or license, and gaining experience in water systems. The difficulty varies depending on local requirements and the level of technical knowledge needed, but it generally involves passing exams and demonstrating practical skills. Strong attention to detail and understanding of safety protocols are also important for success in this role.

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:

Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,647 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Principal Engineer "Construction Services Group"

American Water Works Association

San Bernardino, CA โ€ข On-site

$120 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Supervise and review the activities of staff engaged in construction management, inspection, and constructability review.

  • Assist in planning and scheduling for the construction or alteration of water utility, water reclamation, sewer collections, power generation, and geothermal systems.

  • Oversee the management and coordination of contractor/developer installed projects.


Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity for professional growth and development? Consider joining the City of San Bernardino Municipal Water Department as a Principal Engineer.

The City of San Bernardino Municipal Water Department is seeking a self-starter able to work in a fast-paced environment responsible for planning, directing, supervising and reviewing the activities of staff engaged in the construction management, inspection, and constructability review, assisting in the planning and scheduling for the construction or alteration of water utility, water reclamation, sewer collections, power generation, and geothermal systems, gathering and compiling data, preparing and reviewing design plans for constructability, preparing or reviewing of construction cost estimates, specification, and reports, directing and assisting engineering personnel with matters association with construction management and construction inspection, and overseeing the management and coordination of contractor/developer installed projects.

The class of Principal Engineer is the advanced professional level class in the engineering series. Supervision is received from the Engineering Manager. Supervision may be exercised over Engineering Section staff. In the absence of the Engineering Manager, the Principal Engineer may act as his or her designee.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Construction, Architecture, Water Technology, Wastewater Technology, or closely related field, at least 4 years of increasingly responsible experience in construction management or project management handling multiple large and complex Public Works projects involving pipes and complex process facilities, wastewater collection systems, mechanical equipment, medium voltage and instrumentation systems, tenant improvements, or new facilities, including experience in a lead or supervisory role, and a valid Professional Engineer License (Civil) in the State of California, and a valid California Class "C" driver's license.

Minimum Qualifications:MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

For staff assigned to the Planning and Design Group, the following minimum qualifications shall apply:

  • Education: Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineer, or other related discipline
  • Experience: Four (4) years of civil engineering experience
  • Certification: Must possess a valid Professional Engineer License (Civil) in the State of California at the time of application

And

Must obtain and maintain a State of California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certificate and a SWRCB Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certificate within 36 months of hire date.

For staff assigned to the Construction Services Group, the following minimum qualifications shall apply:

  • Education: Bachelorโ€™s degree in engineering, construction, architecture, Water Technology, Wastewater Technology, or closely related field.
  • Experience: Four (4) years of increasingly responsible experience in construction management or project management handling multiple large and complex Public Works projects involving pipes and complex process facilities, wastewater collection systems, mechanical equipment, medium voltage and instrumentation systems, tenant improvements, or new facilities, including experience in a lead or supervisory role.
  • Certification: Must possess a valid Professional Engineer License (Civil) in the State of California at the time of application

And

Must obtain and maintain a California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 or higher and an SWRCB Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 or higher within 36 months of appointment;

General contractor license is highly desirable.

Certified Construction Manager certification is highly desirable.

Obtaining and maintaining required certification is a condition of employment. Failure to obtain and maintain any required certifications noted within the stipulated timeframes shall be considered grounds for termination. The responsibility for obtaining and maintaining certifications is the sole responsibility of the employee.

This position is primarily responsible for overseeing the construction management and inspection of Public Works projects, not performing operations, maintenance, construction, repair, or installation of Department assets or systems, therefore, experience in the performance of these tasks shall not be considered as meeting the minimum experience qualifications.

Necessary Special Requirements:

Must be able to respond to call-outs or emergencies including being onโ€‘call

Possession of a valid California Class โ€œC: driverโ€™s license is required upon application. For outโ€‘ofโ€‘state applicants, a valid driverโ€™s license is required and a valid California driverโ€™s license is required within ten (10) days of appointment (CA Vehicle Code 12505c).

Physical Tasks and Environmental Conditions:

Work involves exposure to potential physical harm, hazardous chemicals, and infectious disease. There is frequent need to stand, sit, stoop, walk, and perform other similar actions during the course of the workday. Employee accommodations for physical or mental disabilities will be considered on a caseโ€‘byโ€‘case basis.

Incumbents require sufficient mobility to work in an office setting and operate office equipment, transport materials and supplies weighing up to 50 pounds, and to travel to various locations. Must be able to see in the normal visual range with or without correction with vision sufficient to read small print, computer screens and other printed documents. Must be able to hear in the normal audio range with or without correction. Employee accommodations for physical or mental disabilities will be considered on a caseโ€‘byโ€‘case basis.

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