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Water Services Manager Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Water Distribution Operator I/II

Brea, CA · On-site

$64K - $81K/yr

Water Distribution Operator II General supervision is provided by higher level Water Division or other Maintenance Services supervisory or management personnel. Examples of Duties Essential job ...

Water Restoration

Riverside, CA · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... flood service, restorative drying, fire and smoke damage cleaning and deodorization, content ... will be made by the management of this franchisee. All inquiries about employment at this ...

... flood service, restorative drying, fire and smoke damage cleaning and deodorization, content ... will be made by the management of this franchisee. All inquiries about employment at this ...

As part of our Water Business Group, you'll help shape how communities manage water for generations ... Deep knowledge of the A/E/C industry's standard approach to procurement of professional services;

As part of our Water Business Group, you'll help shape how communities manage water for generations ... Deep knowledge of the A/E/C industry's standard approach to procurement of professional services;

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Drinking Water Process Engineer in California to support treatment ... Partner with project teams and client service managers during pursuits, interviews, technical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Water Services Manager information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$28.7K

$85.2K

$143.4K

How much do water services manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for water services manager in Riverside, CA is $85,210.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $121,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water manager do?

A water services manager oversees the operation and maintenance of water supply systems, ensuring safe and reliable delivery of water to communities or facilities. They coordinate with engineers, technicians, and regulatory agencies, often using management software and adhering to safety standards. The role typically requires knowledge of water treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and strong leadership skills.

Is water management a good career?

A Water Services Manager oversees the planning, operation, and maintenance of water supply systems, requiring skills in engineering, environmental science, and regulatory compliance. The field offers stable employment with opportunities for advancement and often involves working in municipal or industrial settings, with certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) being beneficial.

What does a Water Services Manager do?

A Water Services Manager oversees the operation and maintenance of water supply, treatment, and distribution systems within a municipality or organization. Their responsibilities include ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, managing budgets, supervising technical staff, and implementing policies to ensure safe and reliable water services. They also handle emergencies such as water main breaks or contamination incidents and coordinate with government agencies on water quality standards. Effective Water Services Managers ensure that the community has access to clean, safe, and sufficient water at all times.

What are some common challenges faced by a Water Services Manager, and how are they typically addressed?

Water Services Managers often encounter challenges such as aging infrastructure, regulatory compliance, and resource constraints. Addressing these issues usually involves collaborating with engineering teams to prioritize maintenance and upgrades, staying up-to-date with environmental regulations, and managing budgets effectively. Additionally, they work closely with local government agencies and community stakeholders to ensure service reliability and environmental sustainability. Proactive planning and strong communication skills are key to successfully navigating these challenges and maintaining high-quality water services.

What is the highest paying manager position?

In the water services industry, senior management roles such as Director of Water Services or Water Utility Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and strong leadership skills, overseeing large teams and budgets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Services Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Services Manager, you need expertise in water resource management, regulatory compliance, and strong leadership, typically supported by a degree in environmental engineering or related fields. Familiarity with water treatment technologies, SCADA systems, and relevant certifications such as a Water Operator’s License is often required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and team management skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant water services in both public and private sectors.

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

AspectWater Services ManagerWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or related field; certifications like CWE or CWS are commonHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications such as TCEQ or state-specific licenses often required
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple facilities, manages staff, and plans operations; office-based with field oversightOperates and monitors water treatment equipment; primarily on-site at treatment plants
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by municipal water agencies, utilities, and large industrial firmsPrimarily employed by water treatment facilities, municipalities, and private water companies

The Water Services Manager focuses on overseeing water operations, staff management, and strategic planning, often requiring higher education and certifications. In contrast, the Water Treatment Plant Operator handles the day-to-day operation of treatment equipment, with more technical and operational responsibilities. Both roles are essential in water management but differ in scope, responsibilities, and required credentials.

What's the highest paying job in waste management?

In waste management, senior roles such as Waste Management Director or Vice President typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of environmental regulations and operations management.
What job categories do people searching Water Services Manager jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Water Services Manager jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Water Services Manager jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Water Services Manager job openings:

Project Manager - Water Resilience / Surface Water / Flood Control

BKF

Orange, CA • On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across California, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. With offices throughout California and the Portland area, BKF has served transportation, water resources, land development, government, and federal clients for over 110 years.

At BKF, you’ll find a unique opportunity to grow your career with intention. Our culture values professional autonomy, innovation, and meaningful collaboration across offices. We are proud to be recognized with the Great Place to Work certification for the second year in a row.

The Project Manager of Water Resilience will be key in spearheading projects to enhance community resilience to flooding, climate change, and green infrastructure. This pivotal role involves leading multi-disciplinary teams, managing projects from concept through execution, and engaging with clients and stakeholders to drive successful outcomes. Ideal candidates will bring a passion for water resilience, alongside expertise in project management and a robust engineering background.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage water resilience projects, ensuring timely completion, adherence to budgets, and compliance with regulatory standards
  • Coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, to facilitate project progress and secure necessary approvals
  • Conduct technical analyses and assessments to inform project design, including hydrologic modeling, risk assessments, and feasibility studies
  • Develop project proposals, scope of work, schedules, and budgets, while ensuring alignment with client expectations
  • Engage clients and stakeholders in project development, providing updates and building supportive relationships
  • Mentor and train junior staff members, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment within the team
  • Identify and pursue new business opportunities related to water resilience, contributing to BKF’s growth and market presence

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering or a related field
  • 10-12 years of experience in water resources, with a focus on surface water, flood management and resilience projects
  • Proven project management experience in civil engineering, with strong skills in budget management and client relations
  • California PE licensure required
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Proficiency in hydrologic modeling software and engineering design tools
  • Experience with preparing proposals for public agencies

Preferred Requirements:

  • Experience with multi-disciplinary project teams and public sector clients
  • Master's degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering or related areas
  • A strong network of contacts within the water resources field
  • Demonstrated commitment to sustainable and resilient design practices

Physical Demands: Must be able to regularly talk, hear and operate a computer, keyboard and mouse and occasionally lift, pull/push and carry up to 20 pounds with accommodations.

Work Conditions: Exposure to constant or intermittent sounds at a low or moderate level consistent with an office setting. Exposure to high-stress, fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment. Travel to other BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Benefits

  • The typical base salary range for this position is $123,000.00 - $170,000.00, annualized depending upon skills, experience, education, and geographical location. This is a salary position paid biweekly.
  • Competitive salaries, end of year bonuses, profit sharing, and 401k.
  • Generous paid time off packages.
  • 9 Paid Holidays.
  • Flexible schedules.
  • Education reimbursement, Paid annual dues for professional and societal organizations.
  • BKF offers competitive and award-winning benefits and perks. To learn more click here.

BKF Engineers provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

BKF Engineers does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and a specific solicitation for the position or other approved engagement request for the position with BKF Engineers, BKF Engineers reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited submittals are done at the risk of the recruiter.

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