Key job categories in the water/wastewater industry
BAYWORK, a consortium of water and wastewater utilities in the Bay area, has identified seven mission-critical job categories. Water and wastewater utilities need well-trained candidates in all of these areas in order to meet their responsibilities to the communities they serve. The jobs listed and salary ranges provided vary from utility to utility.
POSITION
TYPE
SALARY
CLOSING
Full-time | $98,772.00 – $114,348.00 Annually | 10/17/25 | |
Full-time | $120,312.00 – $139,272.00 Annually | 10/24/25 |
Explore Career Paths
Women in the Trades (WIT)
Our Mission is to enhance diversity and strengthen the sustainability of the utility sector by bringing more women into the industry and supporting their career success, especially those working in skilled trades, operations, & maintenance occupations..
Veterans
BAYWORK knows military members are a great fit for the water and wastewater sector because of their technical expertise, dedication to mission and experience working in a regulated environment.
Electrician
Maintains, repairs, tests, installs, modifies, calibrates, and trouble-shoots electrical equipment used in the facilities and systems of water and wastewater utilities.
Electronic Maintenance Technician/Instrument Technician
Maintains, repairs, tests, installs, modifies, calibrates, and trouble-shoots electronic, pneumatic, and control equipment associated with the facilities and systems of water and wastewater utilities.
Engineer
Plans, designs, constructs, operates and maintains water and wastewater utilities. Disciplines include chemical, structural, electrical, civil, environmental, and mechanical engineers.
Machinist
Maintains mechanical equipment associated with water and wastewater transmission, distribution, storage, and treatment.
Wastewater Treatment
Manages and controls the unit processes at a wastewater treatment plant. Usually requires Grade 3 certification by Regional Water Quality Control Board.
Water Distribution
Operates water transmission and distribution systems (e.g., pumps and valves), often using a SCADA control system. Generally does not perform construction, maintenance, or plumbing work. D-3 certification from Department of Health Services is generally where the journey level starts.
Wastewater Collections
Definition Wastewater Collections Operators are responsible for skilled tasks in the construction, maintenance, and repair of wastewater system facilities; operating a variety of light and moderately heavy power driven equipment; and ensuring public health and safety by preventing and/or responding to sewage overflows and blockages. They inspect, clean, maintain, construct, and repair wastewater collection systems…
Water Treatment Operator
Manages and controls the unit processes at a water treatment plant.
OTHER CAREER CATEGORIES
OTHER CAREER RESOURCES
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