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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

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

... 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 ...

Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve operational issues and improve ... and distribution facilities Compensation: The salary range for this role is $90,000 - $200,000.

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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 Jun 14, 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,647 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
UTILITIES WATER MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN

UTILITIES WATER MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN

City of Riverside

Riverside, CA

$102K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Position The City of Riverside, Public Utilities Department (RPU) is accepting applications for the position of UTILITIES WATER MAINTENANCE ELECTRICIAN to fill one (1) vacancy in the Water Division. The eligibility list established may be used to fill the current and/or upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months. Under general supervision, the Utilities Water Maintenance Electrician is to perform skilled electrical work in the installation, alteration, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems, equipment and fixtures and to do related work as required.

Work Performed Typical duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Install conduits, wires, relays, pull boxes, switchboards and switches required in making additions, extensions or alterations in electrical systems. Repair and replace defective parts in motors, air conditioners, generators, pumps, relays, storage batteries, switchboards, controllers, switches and other fixtures and appliances. Install and maintain water production and distribution control and measuring devices.

Test, locate and repair defects in electrical circuits or equipment. Assist in installation and modification of telephone equipment. Assist in general maintenance activities.

Assist in supervision and training of less experienced maintenance personnel. Qualifications Education: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. Experience: Three years of experience as a journey level electrician.

Necessary Special Requirement Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid class "C" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Possession of, or attainment of within eighteen (18) months from date of hire, a Grade 2 Water Distribution Operator certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. Highly Desired Qualifications: Deep experience diagnosing, rebuilding, and maintaining heavy-duty equipment like booster pumps, vertical turbine motors, and variable frequency drives (VFDs).

The ability to efficiently isolate faults in complex control circuits, switches, and relays under pressure to minimize system downtime. Exceptional skill in interpreting complex electrical schematics, logic diagrams, and legacy blueprints to trace issues in older utility infrastructure. The ability to clearly translate complex technical issues into actionable info for operators, supervisors, or external contractors.

Willingness to assist with general maintenance and operational support activities during major system overhauls and emergency repairs in a team-oriented utility environment Selection Process DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION: 1) Completed Employment Application 2) Completed Supplemental Questionnaire FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide). The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS: If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions.

Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment. Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver's License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation

Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process. It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment. Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination.

NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list. EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer.

Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S. college or university. Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options: An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at http://www.naces.org/members.html or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc

(AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/. An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university. All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.