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Water Treatment Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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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Industrial Wastewater Treatment Operator I

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$22 - $29/hr

Industrial Wastewater Treatment Operator I A well-established manufacturing organization in Santa ... Working knowledge of wastewater treatment, water reclamation, pumps, chemical processes, and ...

Ardurra

Water Treatment Design Lead

Irvine, CA

$140K - $200K/yr

Ardurra is seeking a Water Treatment Lead to join our team ideally in Irvine, CA., but could be ... Our collaborative work environment and inclusive operating philosophy allow us to maintain a ...

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All JobsWater Treatment Operator JobsWater Treatment Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Water Treatment Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$28

$51

How much do water treatment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for water treatment operator in Riverside, CA is $28.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water treatment operator?

Water treatment operators treat and transfer water and wastewater. They operate treatment plant machine systems with control boards, collect water and sewage samples, test and study water for quality, and transport water to designated locations. They also add chemicals to wastewater to disinfect it and turn it into drinking water. Water and wastewater treatment operators must hold a special certification or license and adhere to state regulations and safety procedures.

What does a water treatment operator do?

Water Treatment Operators are typically responsible for monitoring and adjusting equipment, conducting water quality tests, recording data, and responding to alarms or malfunctions. Daily tasks may include inspecting pumps and filters, adding chemicals, and ensuring regulatory compliance. These responsibilities are vital for maintaining safe, reliable water supply and for preventing environmental contamination, making operators integral to both public health and operational efficiency.

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

To thrive as a Water Treatment Operator, you need knowledge of water treatment processes, chemistry, and safety regulations, generally supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant certifications like a state water operator license. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of water treatment facilities and compliance with environmental standards, directly impacting public health.

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

AspectWater Treatment OperatorWater Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires state-specific water treatment certificationsOften requires similar water treatment or plant operation licenses
Work EnvironmentWorks at water treatment facilities, handling water purification processesOperates and maintains water treatment or distribution systems
Industry UsageCommonly used in municipal water treatment plantsUsed in municipal, industrial, and commercial water facilities

Water Treatment Operators and Water Plant Operators often perform similar roles in water facilities, focusing on water purification and system maintenance. While their titles may differ, both require comparable certifications and work environments. The main distinction lies in terminology used by employers, but their responsibilities and industry usage overlap significantly.

How much do water treatment operators make in the US?

Water treatment operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and certifications such as the Wastewater Treatment Certification or Water Treatment Certification, and they often work in shifts to ensure continuous operation of treatment facilities.

Is being a water treatment operator hard?

Water treatment operators are responsible for maintaining and operating water treatment systems, which requires technical knowledge, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and often involves shift work, but proper training and certifications can help manage the complexity of the tasks involved.

Where do water treatment operators make the most money?

Water treatment operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for water management, such as urban areas or states with strict environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment systems also influence earning potential.
More about Water Treatment Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Treatment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Water Treatment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:

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

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

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

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

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

Water Treatment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Treatment Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,474 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Water Treatment System Operator

Montrose Environmental Group, Inc.

Corona, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Montrose Environmental Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 496 rated business services

Job description

About Us
At Onterris, we build careers grounded in purpose, responsibility and real-world impact.
"For Planet and Progress" is our north star that guides everything we do. We believe environmental responsibility and human progress are interconnected, interwoven and international. Our scientists, engineers, field teams, consultants and professionals collaborate across disciplines and geographies, guiding industries and governments, ensuring that communities and environments thrive.
When you join us, you're not just forging a career, you're joining a movement. A movement for better thinking, smarter solutions and lasting impact.
Together, we will advance our way of life and protect the integrity of our environment every step of the way.
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 site in Corona, CA. This is a full-time position with hours averaging 60 hours per week, with occasional additional hours as needed. The compensation for this role is $25/hour.
A Day in the Life
As a key member of the team, this role will be responsible for a full range of activities including:
  • Coordinate operation, maintenance, and repair of water treatment equipment and associated well field and support equipment.
  • Perform and direct activities to ensure that codes, standards, and water treatment objectives are met while being environmentally conscious.
  • Operate and control motors, pumps, and valves for vapor and water treatment systems.
  • Collect water samples and coordinate laboratory analysis.
  • Self-perform periodic maintenance activities and manage subcontractors for specialized equipment service.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical process equipment for initial diagnoses.
  • Be an integral part of our safety culture, approaching all aspects of work with a safety-first attitude.
  • Maintain effective communication with project team members.
  • Plan and schedule work to meet required timelines.
  • Manage and maintain daily operations logs, inventory, site consumables and vendor service contracts
  • Available for occasional off-hour remote monitoring and call-ins to troubleshoot treatment system performance in the event of equipment failure or unforeseen shutdowns (including weekends).
  • Available for a day/night shift rotation.

Your Expertise and Skills
To perform this job successfully, individuals must be able to perform each duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the duties and responsibilities.
  • Working knowledge of low-pressure steam boilers, water treatment equipment, and control systems
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with critical thinking and mechanical/electrical systems
  • Time management skills
  • An ability to work autonomously as well as in a team
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a clean motor vehicle record
  • Must have a reliable form of transportation to travel to job sites

Preferred Qualifications
  • 1-3 years of previous experience in a similar role preferred, but not required
  • OSHA 40-Hour Hazwoper

Onterris is a leading global environmental solutions company partnering with organizations to solve complex challenges where environmental pressures, regulatory expectations and operational risks intersect. Guided by our mission to advance the way of life without compromising the integrity of our environment, we believe environmental responsibility and human progress are fundamentally connected. Our scientists, engineers, field teams and consultants apply systems thinking that unites science, data and practical expertise to deliver solutions that strengthen our clients' resilience, mitigate risk and protect the air, water and soil that sustain communities, while uncovering responsible paths forward for planet and progress. For more information, visit www.onterris.com.
We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We acknowledge that these experiences and perspectives help to enrich our teams and contribute to our ongoing success. We are committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in our employment for all applicants. For US residents, click here to learn more.

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