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Water Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rite of Passage

WATER OPERATOR

San Andreas, CA · On-site

$35/hr

Rite of Passage Team is hiring for Part-Time Water Operator in San Andreas, California Nestled in the Sierra foothills of California, Yosemite and Mt. Lassen Treatment Centers located on the Sierra ...

Rite of Passage

WATER OPERATOR

San Andreas, CA · On-site

$35/hr

Rite of Passage Team is hiring for Part-Time Water Operator in San Andreas, California Nestled in the Sierra foothills of California, Yosemite and Mt. Lassen Treatment Centers located on the Sierra ...

Meridiancity

Water Operator I or II

Newberry Springs, CA · On-site

$25.33/hr

Water Operator I Salary: $25.33 per hour, DOE Water Operator II Salary: $27.81 per hour, DOE Job Summary: The Water Operator I or II's primary responsibilities are to demonstrate and perform a ...

Yurok Tribe

Water Operator I

Klamath, CA · On-site

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

Public Utilities Opening Date: 08/11/2026 Closing Date: 9/1/2026 5:00 PM Pacific POSITION SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the Chief Water Operator, works to assist with the control, operation ...

Yurok Tribe (CA)

Water Operator I

Klamath, CA

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the Chief Water Operator, works to assist with the control, operation, and maintenance of small rural water systems on the Yurok Reservation. Operate ...

Ventura Foods

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

Operate the waste water system within permit limits set by the City, TCEQ, and EPA. Aid in complying with the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan. Maintain the back lot within food safety and ...

Ventura Foods

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

Operate the waste water system within permit limits set by the City, TCEQ, and EPA. Aid in complying with the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan. Maintain the back lot within food safety and ...

Ventura Foods

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

Operate the waste water system within permit limits set by the City, TCEQ, and EPA. Aid in complying with the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan. Maintain the back lot within food safety and ...

Ventura Foods

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

Operate the waste water system within permit limits set by the City, TCEQ, and EPA. Aid in complying with the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan. Maintain the back lot within food safety and ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in California

Water Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in California is $25.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.38 and $29.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water operator?

As a water treatment plant operator, also called a water operator, you measure water quality and quantity using computerized equipment. Your job duties include the maintenance and repair of water treatment equipment and water delivery systems. As a water and wastewater treatment plant operator, you collaborate with engineers, chemists, and lab assistants to test water samples to inform your decisions about water treatment systems. Your primary responsibility is to make sure that water is safe for people to drink and use in their daily lives.

What are some common challenges faced by water operators in maintaining treatment plant operations?

Water Operators often encounter challenges such as fluctuating water quality, unexpected equipment malfunctions, and strict regulatory compliance requirements. These professionals must quickly troubleshoot mechanical or chemical issues, adapt to changes in source water conditions, and ensure all processes meet local and federal safety standards. Effective communication with other team members and departments is also essential, as operators frequently coordinate with maintenance staff, engineers, and regulatory agencies to resolve issues and maintain smooth plant operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, basic chemistry, mechanical aptitude, and typically a state-issued water operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and regulatory compliance software is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set exceptional operators apart in this field. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, reliable water quality and compliance with public health standards.

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

AspectWater OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater operator licenses, state-specific certificationsWater treatment operator licenses, state certifications
Work EnvironmentWater distribution systems, pipelines, reservoirsWater treatment facilities, filtration systems
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, water districts, private water companiesMunicipal water plants, treatment facilities

Both roles require similar certifications and work in water-related environments, often within municipal or private water systems. The main difference is that Water Operators focus more on maintaining water distribution systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in operating and maintaining water treatment processes. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path in the water industry.

How much do water operators make?

Water operators in Michigan typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the water system. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe and clean water supply. The job offers stable employment, requires technical skills and certifications, and often involves working outdoors or in water treatment facilities. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and infrastructure maintenance.

What does it take to be a water operator?

A water operator is responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment and distribution systems. Requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant certifications such as a state-issued water treatment operator license, and knowledge of water quality standards, safety procedures, and equipment operation. On-the-job training and technical skills are also important for ensuring safe and efficient water service.
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For Water Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,586 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

WATER OPERATOR

Rite of Passage

San Andreas, CA • On-site

$35/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Rite Of Passage rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 242 rated social care providers

Job description

Join a group of passionate advocates on our mission to improve the lives of youth! Rite of Passage Team is hiring for Part-Time Water Operator in San Andreas, California
Nestled in the Sierra foothills of California, Yosemite and Mt. Lassen Treatment Centers located on the Sierra Ridge Campus are licensed Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Programs that offer individual, group, and family therapy, as well as evidence-based skill and rehabilitation groups. Sierra Ridge embraces a strengths-based approach within a least restrictive program model and normalized high school environment. Here youth become part of a cohesive, supportive, dynamic community of peers and highly qualified staff. Through Rite of Passage's Integrated Care Model, Sierra Ridge provides a trauma-responsive program that is individualized for each youth.
Pay: $35.00 per hour.
Perks & Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision and company paid Life Insurance within 90 days, and 403b match of up to 6% after one (1) year of employment, Paid Time Off that can be used as soon as it accrues ~ On-site housing available for staff use during their shift for those with a long commute, or limited transportation and more! ROP-benefits-perks-2025-ATCS.pdf
What you will do: As the Part-Time Water Operator, As the Part-Time Water Operator, you will need Water Treatment Level II Certification and Water Distribution Level I Certification ~ Ensure quality control ~ Complete required reports and documentation in a timely manner ~ Provides management with required reports and advise of any problematic situations ~ Documents all services performed ~ Reports any and all situations that may lead to a compliance issues.
To be considered you should: Be empathetic, patient, and treat others with respect ~ Be at least 21 years of age ~ Have a High School diploma or equivalent ~ Water Treatment Level II required ~ Water Distribution Level I required ~ Be able to pass a criminal background check, drug screen, physical, and TB test ~ Be able to pass a search of the child abuse central registry.
Schedule: Schedule TBD
Apply today and Make a Difference in the Lives of Youth!
After 40 years of improving the lives of youth, we are looking for passionate advocates to continue the legacy of helping young people become successful adults. As a Part-Time Water Operator, you will have the unique opportunity to create a positive, safe and supportive environment for the youth we serve while building a career rich in growth opportunities and self-fulfillment.
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Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About Rite of Passage

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rite of Passage is a Nevada‑based nonprofit youth services provider founded in 1984 and headquartered in Minden, NV. It operates a national continuum of evidence‑based, trauma‑responsive programs‑including residential treatment centers, day schools, therapeutic foster care, prevention and reunification services, charter/day school education, and mentoring‑based family preservation initiatives‑serving around 2,000 youth daily across 15 states. As of 2025, the organization is led by co‑founder and CEO Ski James Broman and holds CARF Three‑Year Accreditation, affirming its program quality and compliance with national standards.

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minden, NV, US

Year founded

1984

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