How to Become a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in California
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators in California earn a median salary of $82,100/year, which is 41% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.6%. After taxes and rent, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators takes home approximately $3,786/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators can afford in California
Becoming a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in California
Meet education requirements
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 11,260 water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $123K | $59.32/hr | 1,160 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $106K | $51.17/hr | 400 |
| Vallejo | $102K | $48.88/hr | 190 |
| Napa | $99K | $47.81/hr | 90 |
| Salinas | $91K | $43.56/hr | 140 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $86K | $41.24/hr | 90 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $85K | $40.85/hr | 890 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $84K | $40.21/hr | 220 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $83K | $40.03/hr | 260 |
| Modesto | $83K | $39.8/hr | 220 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $83K | $39.66/hr | 1,580 |
| Yuba City | $81K | $38.85/hr | 90 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $81K | $38.79/hr | 2,070 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $80K | $38.69/hr | 180 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $80K | $38.38/hr | 240 |
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators salary range in California
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators make in California?▼
The median water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators salary in California is $82,100 per year ($39.47/hr). This is 41% above the national median of $58,260. Salaries range from $52,510 to $123,870.
What are the requirements to become a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in California?▼
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $82,100, a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in California would take home approximately $5,198/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($123,390), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($106,440), Vallejo ($101,670). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.6%. On a $82,100 salary, this means roughly $3,773/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.