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Water Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Ventura Foods

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA

$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

$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 ...

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and ...

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and ...

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator I

Rialto, CA · On-site

The Water Systems Operator I must have experience installing, maintaining, and repairing water mains, water services, pipes, pumps, wells; operate computer equipment, operate process equipment ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator I

Rialto, CA · On-site

The Water Systems Operator I must have experience installing, maintaining, and repairing water mains, water services, pipes, pumps, wells; operate computer equipment, operate process equipment ...

Veolia

Operator I

Rialto, CA

The Water Systems Operator I must have experience installing, maintaining, and repairing water mains, water services, pipes, pumps, wells; operate computer equipment, operate process equipment ...

New

Onterris

Water Treatment System Operator

Corona, CA

$25/hr

We are looking for a full-time Water Treatment System Operator , who will work directly on treatment plants designed to treat contaminated groundwater and vapor. This role will be based at our client ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Water Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for water 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 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 Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,647 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA

Ventura Foods
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

240th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Paid breaks

Learn more about Ventura Foodsexternal

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Location: Ontario
Employment Type: Hourly
Shift: Second  
Work Arrangement: Onsite 

Position Summary:

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 regulatory guidelines.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate the waste water system for discharge water quality within all permit limits set by the City.  Ensure proper treatment with chemicals to maintain acceptable water quality.
  • Order of chemicals for waste water treatment. Tracks inventory levels, FIFO materials.
  • Inspect outfalls to maintain compliance within the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan.
  • Pump and clean barrels and totes of production waste into waste water system.
  • Prepare and load barrels and cardboard for disposal and sale for recycling.
  • Maintain the back lot in a clean and organized manner.
  • Maintain safety standards.
  • Responsible for following all Food Safety policies, procedures and regulatory criterion including the current SQF code, Good Manufacturing Practices, and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) and associated Preventive Controls.
Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent experience
  • Previous experience in waste water treatment
Knowledge and Skills:
  • Knowledge of waste water treatment systems
  • Forklift certification
  • Waste water certification a plus

Why Join Us:
Ventura Foods offers career growth opportunities as well as competitive compensation and benefits:

  • Medical, Prescription, Dental, & Vision - coverage beginning on your 1st day for eligible employees
  • Profit Sharing and 401(k) matching (after eligible criteria is met)
  • Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Holidays
  • Employee Appreciation Events and Employee Assistance Programs
  • Hourly Base Range of $28.09 - $34.95*

*The "base hourly range" provided above is a good faith estimate of what we expect to pay for this position in the specified markets.  Ventura Foods reserves the right to pay outside of the given range based on a variety of factors including but not limited to: candidate skills and experience, complexity of the job, budgetary factors, and location/geography.  Ventura Foods conducts regular reviews of compensation ranges and therefore reserves the right to alter this range at any given time.  
Physical Demands:
All jobs require sufficient physical strength and dexterity to perform the required task(s) and typically also require at a minimum: intermittent sitting, standing, walking, climbing, squatting, kneeling, pushing, and pulling.  Occasional lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds or more with assistance may also be required.  Please see the job description for specific requirements.
Work Environment:
Please see the job description for specific requirements of the position for which you are applying.
Typical shifts are 8-12 hours per day.   Additional unscheduled time after hours and on weekends may also be required.  Employees must be willing and able to wear personal protective equipment as required by Company policy and/or legal requirements.  In addition, certain jobs may require employees to:

  • Work outside and/or in adverse temperatures which could include extreme heat, cold, and humidity;
  • Be exposed to vibrations, chemicals used in operations, fumes and food allergens (may include soy, dairy and other allergens); and
  • Be required to work in confined and dark spaces, and at heights in excess of 18 feet.

Diversity & Inclusion:
Our commitment to a diverse and inclusive environment in which all employees are treated with respect is evident in our company culture and values.  We believe that fostering an environment of inclusion and a focus on diversity across our organization is vital to attracting top talent, driving innovation, and meeting the high expectations of our customers in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.
Ventura Foods is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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