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Water Operator Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Driver

Merced, CA · On-site

$18 - $21.25/hr

Waters batteries and plugs batteries into battery charger. Changes out forklift batteries. * * Transfers pallets of merchandise from the receiving area to the steel shelves and bulk wall for storage ...

Dishwasher

Turlock, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18/hr

Operating the dish machine * Supervising proper rinse and wash temperatures * Changing water, storing, and using dish chemicals properly * Setting up and organizing the dish racks * Removing trash

... water/wastewater system equipment and systems, painting various surfaces, etc. Supervises and ... Possession of Pool Operator certification within one year of hire date. Certification must be ...

Dishwasher

Turlock, CA

$16.90 - $18/hr

Operating the dish machine * Supervising proper rinse and wash temperatures * Changing water, storing, and using dish chemicals properly * Setting up and organizing the dish racks * Removing trash

... Operating Procedures; complete in-room checklists for each assigned room * Replenish guest room amenities as needed including towels, in-room water, bathroom supplies, etc. * Sanitize all high-touch ...

... Water, Teleflora, and JUSTIN Wine. Mid-level fuel truck operator position. Employee works for the Shop Manager. Performs work in inspection and fueling of farm equipment and vehicles. Can inspect ...

Maintenance Supervisor

Mariposa, CA · On-site

$71K - $86K/yr

... water/wastewater system equipment and systems, painting various surfaces, etc. Supervises and ... Possession of Pool Operator certification within one year of hire date. Certification must be ...

Service Truck Driver

Firebaugh, CA · On-site

$23.50 - $25.50/hr

... Water, Teleflora, and JUSTIN Wine. Mid-level fuel truck operator position. Employee works for the Shop Manager. Performs work in inspection and fueling of farm equipment and vehicles. Can inspect ...

... Operating Procedures; complete in-room checklists for each assigned room * Replenish guest room amenities as needed including towels, in-room water, bathroom supplies, etc. * Sanitize all high-touch ...

Showing results 41-60

Water Operator information

See Merced, CA salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Merced, CA is $27.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $31.97 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.

What are popular job titles related to Water Operator jobs in Merced, CA?

For Water Operator jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Operator jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operator jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Water Operator jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Water Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,339 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

$18 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Costco rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,929 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 39 rated national retailers


Job description


California applicants: Please click here to review the Costco Applicant Privacy Notice.
The jobs listed are examples of the typical kinds of positions that Costco may hire for when openings exist. The listing does not mean that any positions are currently open or available at Costco.
Position Summary
Operates a stand-up electric forklift to move pallets of merchandise and equipment throughout the warehouse. Hand stacks product from partial pallets onto full pallets of product. Provides a high level of member service.
Job Duties
  • Moves pallets of merchandise from the steel shelving and the bulk wall to the sales area using stand-up electric forklift based on written list, verbal instruction, and observation of low stock.
  • Stacks product from partial pallets onto full pallets. Pulls pallets with manual pallet jack, stocks merchandise and rotates stock as necessary. (Varies with staffing, area worked.)
  • Removes empty pallets from the sales floor using stand-up electric forklift. Stacks empty pallets outside, near the receiving area in the designated area.
  • Communicates with floor managers to set priorities and determine product placement. Prints daily hot sheet.
  • Combines freight for efficient storage by stacking partial pallets together with forklift (transferring manually if needed). Wraps combined pallets in plastic film with a product tag prior to placement on steel shelves.
  • Completes daily forklift safety checklist. Uses a spotter or acts as spotter to keep people out of the fall-danger zone. Waters batteries and plugs batteries into battery charger. Changes out forklift batteries. *
  • Transfers pallets of merchandise from the receiving area to the steel shelves and bulk wall for storage, or directly to the sales floor.
  • Assists with stocking. Clears sales floor debris. Observes and ensures correct product signage; creates computer-generated signs. Labels unmarked product with item number.
  • Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials.
  • Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery.
  • Assists with department duties as necessary.
  • Assists in other departments of the warehouse as necessary.

For additional information about pay ranges, click here.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, health benefits - medical/dental/vision/hearing aid/pharmacy/behavioral health/employee assistance, health care reimbursement account, dependent care assistance plan, short-term disability and long-term disability insurance, AD&D insurance, life insurance, 401(k), stock purchase plan to eligible employees.
Apart from any religious or disability considerations, open availability is needed to meet the needs of the business. If hired, you will be required to provide proof of authorization to work in the United States.
Job Description Posting Updated: July 2026 Job Code: 0011

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About Costco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Costco is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise. With more than 800 locations worldwide, Costco provides a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of specialty departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. Today, as the company evolves, it stays true to the qualities that helped attract and retain millions of loyal members around the globe: Commitment to quality. Costco warehouses carry about 4,000 SKUs (stock keeping units) compared to the 30,000 found at most supermarkets. By carefully choosing products based on quality, price, brand, and features, the company can offer the best value to members.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Issaquah, WA, US

Year founded

1983