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

Water Treatment Facility Design Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$90K - $200K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve operational issues and improve efficiency. * Compliance and Safety: Ensure that treated water meets municipal or industrial ...

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and treatment equipment such as: * Pumping systems

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and treatment equipment such as: * Pumping systems

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and treatment equipment such as: * Pumping systems

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

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Wastewater Treatment Operator | 3rd Shift

Orange, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description AdvancedPCB is seeking a reliable, motivated Waste Treatment Operator has the ... Keep accurate records of daily incoming water consumption. * Maintain a safe, neat, and orderly ...

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Waste Water Operator

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$28.09 - $34.95/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Fontana, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Grade T2 Water Treatment Operator Certificate. * Experience preparing advanced engineering exhibits and GIS mapping. * Strong understanding of applicable federal, state, and local engineering codes ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Fontana, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Grade T2 Water Treatment Operator Certificate. * Experience preparing advanced engineering exhibits and GIS mapping. * Strong understanding of applicable federal, state, and local engineering codes ...

Grade T2 Water Treatment Operator Certificate. * Experience preparing advanced engineering exhibits and GIS mapping. * Strong understanding of applicable federal, state, and local engineering codes ...

Showing results 21-40

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 13, 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.

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, certifications, and location, with some operators earning over $70,000 annually in certain regions or with advanced skills.

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. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and working in specialized or industrial facilities.

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 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 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.

Is being a water treatment operator hard?

Water treatment operators are responsible for monitoring and maintaining water purification systems, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can involve shift work, troubleshooting equipment, and obtaining certifications, but it is generally considered manageable with proper training and experience.

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 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:
What are popular job titles related to Water Treatment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Water Treatment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles 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:
Infographic showing various Water Treatment Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,474 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Water Treatment Facility Design Engineer

GFT.

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$90K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

GFTis seeking a Water Treatment Design Engineer toย join our Water team!This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at one of our many offices.ย 

Joining the water resources team atย GFT means contributing to innovative solutions for sustainable water management and infrastructure. Our team excels in dams and levees, advanced water and wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and conveyance, collection, and transmission. With a focus on integrating technology, sustainability, and compliance, we consider each water resources and environmental remediation project a chance to innovate and evolve to protect public health and enhance quality of life.ย Explore some of our signature water resources and environmental projects here.ย ย 

What you'll be challenged to do:

In this role you will lead and supportย design, optimize, and manage systems that treat and transport drinking water to ensure safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance.

ย 

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

  • System Design:Designing water treatment plants and pumping stations, including detailed CAD drawings and equipment selection. Design new treatment systems or upgrade existing systems, including pre-treatment, various filtration processes including granular media and membranes, chemical storage and feed, UV and other advanced treatment technologies, and pumping equipment
  • Process Optimization:Analyzing and enhancing treatment techniques (e.g., pH adjustment, chemical dosing, aeration) to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
  • System Hydraulics: Performing hydraulic analysis of existing and new water treatment plants, pump stations, and piping systems, making pump selections, and evaluating performance of existing pumps.
  • Testing and Monitoring:Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve operational issues and improve efficiency.
  • Compliance and Safety:Ensure that treated water meets municipal or industrial regulatory standards, protecting public health and the environment.
  • Project Management:Conducting feasibility studies, upgrading existing infrastructure, and managing projects from design to completion. Develop cost projections, feasibility studies, and supervise construction or commissioning of new technology.ย 
  • Data Analysis:Monitoring operator reports and lab results to refine treatment techniques.
  • Technical: Function as a technical specialist in the areas of conventional and advanced water treatmentย 

What you will bring to our firm:ย 

  • BS in Civil, Environmental, Chemical Engineering (MS is preferred)
  • Professional Engineer Licensed required (PE) or the ability to obtain in 6-12 months
  • 8 + years of experience preferred in water discipline, particularly as a water engineer designing (study, plans and specifications) water infrastructure (i.e. treatment and pumping station projects)
  • Expert knowledge in standard engineering techniques and procedures.
  • Demonstrated experience and knowledge in primary treatment, filtration processes, chemical storage and feed, advanced water treatment, disinfection, hydraulics, and solids processing and handling preferred.
  • Successful track record leading water design and plant facilities projects
  • Demonstrated ability in both conventional filtration as well as membrane filtration is preferred. In addition, experience in hydraulics, chemical feed systems, alternate disinfection would be preferred.
  • Progressive experience in the evaluation, design, permitting and construction administration of water treatment facilities, pumping stations, and water storage and distribution facilities
ย Compensation:The salary range for this role is $90,000 - $200,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.ย Featured Benefits:ย  Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment. Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual. Tuition reimbursement for continued education. Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.ย 

Location: Irvine, San Diego, Roseville, or Los Angeles, CA or Denver ColoradoCore Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME