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Water Operations Jobs in Turlock, CA (NOW HIRING)

Safe operation of a Company vehicle in accordance with state and federal DOT laws. * Adherence to ... Perform diagnostics, installations or removals on residential and commercial water treatment ...

Safe operation of a Company vehicle in accordance with state and federal DOT laws. * Adherence to ... Perform diagnostics, installations or removals on residential and commercial water treatment ...

BNR Waste Water Tech II - (Days)

Livingston, CA ยท On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

Six (6) months of experience in the operation of wastewater treatment plant solids de-watering ... equipment, preferred * Must have knowledge of hazardous chemical handling, to include experience in ...

Water Treatment Installer

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Safe operation of a Company vehicle in accordance with state and federal DOT laws. * Adherence to ... Perform diagnostics, installations or removals on residential and commercial water treatment ...

Water Treatment Installer

Modesto, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Safe operation of a Company vehicle in accordance with state and federal DOT laws. * Adherence to ... Perform diagnostics, installations or removals on residential and commercial water treatment ...

Field Service Technician

Merced, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Experience in pest management, sanitation, water treatment, industrial service, or related field operations. * Experience working with plumbing, electrical systems, pumps, injection systems ...

Field Service Technician

Merced, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Experience in pest management, sanitation, water treatment, industrial service, or related field operations. * Experience working with plumbing, electrical systems, pumps, injection systems ...

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Water Operations information

See Turlock, CA salary details

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How much do water operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operations in Turlock, CA is $20.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $23.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is water operations?

Water Operations refer to the processes and activities involved in managing the supply, treatment, and distribution of water for public and industrial use. This includes monitoring water quality, maintaining infrastructure like pipes and pumps, ensuring regulatory compliance, and responding to emergencies such as leaks or contamination. Professionals in water operations work to ensure that safe and adequate water is delivered to communities while protecting public health and the environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in water operations?

To thrive in Water Operations, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, distribution systems, and relevant regulations, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators respond quickly to issues and work collaboratively. These skills are critical for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient water supply and infrastructure management.

What are the typical daily challenges faced by professionals in water operations, and how can new team members best prepare for them?

Professionals in Water Operations often encounter challenges such as maintaining water quality standards, responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, and adapting to changing weather or environmental conditions. New team members can best prepare by gaining a strong understanding of regulatory requirements, familiarizing themselves with monitoring and control systems, and developing good communication skills for effective teamwork. Staying proactive with preventive maintenance and being adaptable to shift work or emergency response situations are also key to succeeding in this role.

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

AspectWater OperationsWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsOften requires state-specific water operator licensesTypically requires a water treatment operator license
Work EnvironmentIncludes water distribution systems, treatment facilities, and fieldworkPrimarily focuses on operating and maintaining water treatment equipment
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, utilities, and industrial facilitiesMunicipal water treatment plants, water utilities
Job FocusOverseeing water distribution, quality, and system maintenanceManaging water treatment processes and ensuring water quality standards

Water Operations and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles share overlapping skills and certifications, but Water Operations covers a broader scope including water distribution and system management, while Water Treatment Plant Operators focus specifically on treatment processes. Both roles are essential in maintaining safe and reliable water services in municipal and industrial settings.

How much do water operations make in the US?

Water operations professionals, including roles such as water treatment plant operators and distribution system operators, typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000 in the US. Salaries vary based on experience, certifications, location, and the complexity of the systems managed.

Is being a water operations professional worth it?

Water operations professionals manage the infrastructure and systems that supply clean water and treat wastewater, often working in field and plant environments. The role offers stable employment with opportunities for advancement and requires technical skills, certifications, and adherence to safety standards. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and environmental management.

What cities near Turlock, CA are hiring for Water Operations jobs?

Cities near Turlock, CA with the most Water Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Operations job openings in Turlock, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,340 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Water Treatment Plant Operations Supervisor

Turlock, CA โ€ข On-site

City of Turlock
Public Administrationย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$9.0K - $11K/mo

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Information/Definition The City of Turlock is offering HIRING INCENTIVES for Water Treatment Plant Operations, Supervisor. The Water Treatment Plant Operations, Supervisor INCENTIVE breakdown is as follows: $3,000 - Upon hiring $3,000 - Upon completion of probation $3000 - Upon completion of 3 years of service from hiring VISIT STANISLAUS REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY (SRWA) FOR INFORMATION REGARDING THE WATER TREATMENT PLANT: CLICK HERE. The City of Turlock is seeking applicants for the Water Treatment Plant Operations Supervisor position.

The incumbent receives administrative direction from the Water Treatment Plant Manager and exercises direct supervision over assigned plant staff. Under general direction, the Water Treatment Plant Operations Supervisor plans, organizes, directs, and supervises the activities of the Water Treatment Plant including operation and maintenance of the water treatment plant, transmission mains, and ancillary facilities and coordinates activities and water production with the Cities of Turlock and Ceres. The Water Treatment Plant Operations Supervisor must reside within 60 miles of the water treatment plant and be able to respond within 90 minutes in case of an emergency.

This classification is assigned to the Turlock City Employees Association bargaining unit for labor relations purposes and is subject to overtime, call back, and standby assignments. An eligibility list will be established from this recruitment that will be valid for six (6) months. All employees serve a one (1) year probationary period.

Essential Functions - Include But Are Not Limited To The Following: Plan, prioritize, assign, supervise and review domestic water treatment activities including operation and maintenance of the potable water treatment plant ,raw water pump station, raw water pipeline, finished water pipelines, and ancillary facilities. Coordinate with the Turlock Irrigation District(TID) regarding the infiltration gallery, raw water pump station, raw water pipeline, flow split structure, Ceres Main Canal outlet structure (collectively known as the District Delivery Facilities) and any diversions to the Ceres Main Canal. Recommend and assist in the implementation of established production goals and finished water constituent concentrations in coordination with the Cities, and plan for and coordinate outages in terms of time and duration in recognition of the Cities' distribution systems.

Evaluate operations and maintenance activities within the area of responsibility and recommend improvements and modifications, document operation or maintenance procedures accordingly. Participate in budget preparation and administration; prepare cost estimates for budget recommendations, submit justifications for expenditures for equipment, materials, supplies and services; monitor and control expenditures. Participate in the recruitment and selection of staff, provide, or coordinate staff training; conduct employee performance evaluations, work with employees to correct performance deficiencies, and implement progressive discipline as required.

Ensure potable water meeting all regulatory requirements is always delivered in the required quantities. Maintain accurate records and prepare reports regarding plant operations and water quality. Coordinate plant activities with the Cities and be in regular communication with the Cities' and TID's designated Operations and Engineering staff members.

Recommend operational efficiencies while maintaining the highest standard of water quality possible. Ensure that all analyzers and monitoring equipment are calibrated and appropriately sending and storing accurate information via a cyber-secure SCADA system. Monitor processes using a SCADA control system.

Participate in and provide documentation for studies related to plant and filter rerating including operation of parallel pilot filters. Collate and analyze the data from the studies, prepare reports, and assist with reports prepared for the Division of Drinking Water (DDW) toward the goal of rating the plant for higher throughput. Assume the duties of Plant Manager as needed and be available to respond to emergencies, including those outside of normal working hours.

Assist with the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, and procedures. Plan, supervise and participate in special projects or studies as assigned. Research and prepare technical and administrative reports, and other written documents, including the submittal of all regulatory required reports.

Supervise the use of specialized equipment involved in water treatment plant operations; develop, plan and direct preventative and corrective maintenance; recommend equipment maintenance and replacement and prepare budget estimates using the plant CMMS. Make critical decisions to resolve emergency situations. Assist the General Manager in the planning and implementation of upgrades, changes or expansions of water treatment and conveyance facilities.

Build and maintain positive relationships with staff, Cities employees, outside agencies, and the public through clear and concise communication. Assist the General Manager in developing and administering or assume delegated responsibility for the plant safety program. Perform related duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Knowledge of: Principles and practices of water treatment, water transmission, and water storage. Equipment, tools, and materials commonly used in the operation and maintenance of the water treatment plant. Principles and practices of certified lab services.

Principles and practices of leadership, motivation, team building, and conflict resolution. Local, State, and Federal rules, regulations, and laws as they relate to the operation of a water treatment plant and potable water transmission system. Design and construction standards as they relate to water treatment, conveyance,and storage facilities.

Principles and practices of supervision; training and performance evaluation. Principles and practices of budget monitoring. Principles and practices of safety procedures and implementation.

Hydraulics, applied mathematics, chemical metering, pumps, SCADA, and chemicals used in water treatment. Water sampling and analysis. Regulatory reporting.

Use of modern office equipment and applicable software. Ability to: Organize, implement, and direct all facets of water operations and maintenance. Interpret, explain and dutifully carry out pertinent Federal, State, local and SRWA policies and procedures.

Assist in the development of an assigned budget. Know appropriate laws, regulations, codes, and evaluate plant conformance. Recommend and implement adjustments to policies and procedures, when necessary, to maintain conformance.

Analyze problems, identify, and recommend solutions, evaluate effectiveness of solution, and implement further changes if needed to attain goals. Understand and troubleshoot operations and maintenance problems and serve as a resource to staff to solve problems. Read and understand engineering plans and specifications.

Manage material and service contracts. Coordinate and oversee the work of outside vendors, consultants, and contractors. Gain cooperation through clear communication and effective leadership.

Supervise, develop, train, and evaluate personnel. Operate modern office equipment and software programs. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with Federal, State, and local regulatory agencies.

Communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing. Operate and maintain SCADA systems. Read and understand Process Control Narratives, Process Control and Instrument Diagrams (P&ID's), and other related SCADA architecture documents.

Additional Information Experience and Training Guidelines Any combination of education, training and experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and ability is as follows: EDUCATION: Equivalent to a high school diploma or GED certificate and six college units or CEU's in a related field or scholastic general education (i.e. Speech, Math, English, Science, Foreign Language etc.) and three college units or CEU's in Supervision or Management for a total of nine college units or CEU's

Possession of an associate's degree in a related field is desirable. EXPERIENCE: Five years of increasingly responsible experience in the operation and maintenance of a domestic water treatment plant, and operation of a water distribution system similar or greater in size and complexity to the SRWA plant, finished water transmission, and ancillary facilities including two years providing technical and functional supervision over assigned personnel. LICENSE: Possession of an appropriate, valid Class C California Driver's License at the time of appointment, to be maintained as a condition of continued employment.

CERTIFICATE(S): Possession of a valid California Water Treatment Operator T-4 Certificate at time of appointment. Obtain California Water Treatment Operator T-5 within 18 months of appointment to this position and maintain thereafter as a condition of employment. Possession of a valid California Water Distribution Operator D-4 Certificate or ability to obtain within 12 months of appointment to this position and maintain thereafter as a condition of employment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Maintain the following physical abilities: see well enough to read, write and make observations, operate hand and power tools, vehicles and heavy equipment; hear well enough to converse on the radio, telephone and in person; bodily mobility to walk, bend, stand, crouch or climb for extended periods of time, operate assigned equipment and vehicles and perform heavy manual labor for extended periods; ability to tolerate extreme fluctuations in temperature while performing essential functions and be able to lift equipment on a frequent basis 25lbs, and on an occasional basis 50lbs. SELECTION PROCESS 1. All applicants must complete a standard City of Turlock application for employment form, supplemental questionnaire and submit the following documentation: Proof of education - this can be a copy of high school diploma, GED certificate, or transcripts to show high school and college course work.

Possession of a valid California Water Treatment Operator T-4 Certificate at time of appointment. Failure to include this documentation at time of application will be considered an incomplete application. 2.

You may submit your required Documentation using the following options: Attach a scanned copy in the "Add Attachment" option (of the NeoGov online application) or Fax a copy to (209) 668-5529 or Email a copy to agodinez@turlock.ca.us or Hand deliver copies of your attachment to 156 S. Broadway, Suite 235, Turlock, CA 3. Applications will be reviewed for possession of the minimum qualifications

In the event that a large number of applicants possess the minimum qualifications, applicants who appear to be the most qualified based on their breadth and recency of experience will be invited to compete in the testing process. 4. Candidates invited to compete in the testing process may be required to take a written examination, which will be based on a pass/fail basis.

If a written examination is conducted and a large number of candidates receive a passing score, the City reserves the right to invite a percentage of the top scoring candidates to compete in the next phase of the testing process, the oral examination. 5. Candidates who are invited to participate in the oral examination and receive a score of 70% or more will be placed on an eligibility list.

Ranking on the eligibility list will be based solely on the results from the oral exam. 6. Completion of a practical exercise may be conducted in order to further evaluate skills relating to essential job functions.

7. Top candidates on the eligibility list will be referred to the Municipal Services Director for final appointment consideration. 8.

Final appointment will be contingent upon passing the following: reference review, medical examination which includes a drug/alcohol screening, hearing exam and vision exam. VETERAN'S PREFERENCE SYSTEM The City of Turlock has adopted a veteran's preference system (effective January 1, 2002). The percentage score achieved through an entrance (non-promotional) examination which ranks applicants on an eligibility list shall be adjusted to provide: (a) one (1) percentage point added to the final test score for each six (6) months of active service during a time of armed conflict, up to a maximum of five (5) points, and (b) five (5) percentage points added to the final test score for veterans who are disabled as a result of active military service during a time of armed conflict, regardless of length of service.

To receive preference points, applicants must provide supporting documentation and proof of honorable discharge. In no event shall an applicant receive more than a five (5) point adjustment. This request should be made in section #12 of the employment application form.

A copy of your DD214 must be attached for this request to be considered. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER The City of Turlock is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are sincerely interested in receiving applications from qualified minorities, women and the disabled.

Qualified applicants receive equal consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, political affiliation or belief except where indicated by requirements of the job. The City of Turlock will make every effort to accommodate applicants that have disabilities that would not allow them to compete in the announced process. Applicants are asked to indicate their request for accommodation in the application form.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION AND DRUG SCREENING The incumbent will be required to take a medical examination including a drug/alcohol screening and be fingerprinted. CUSTOMER SERVICE POLICY The City of Turlock is committed to quality service to our customers. Our goal is to create a positive, productive and courteous atmosphere for our employees and customers.

Employees are evaluated on the quality of customer service they provide. BENEFITS Holidays: Eleven (11) paid holidays and three (3) floating holidays. Vacation: Paid vacation that increases with years of service.

Sick Leave: Accrual of one day (eight (8) hours) for each month worked. Retirement: Qualified candidates who are currently a CalPERS member or have been a CalPERS member within the last six (6) months or are subject to reciprocity with a...