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Operator Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Mission Linen Supply has immediate opportunities for our Management Trainee in state-of-the-art operating plants in California and Arizona. Service Management Trainee will learn to provide leadership ...

Mission Linen Supply has immediate opportunities for our Management Trainee in state-of-the-art operating plants in California and Arizona. Service Management Trainee will learn to provide leadership ...

Sales Trainee

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$19.95 - $22.05/hr

This is a training role that is made to prepare the Sales Trainee for the Account Sales Manager role. The role primarily is to support sales initiatives and provide route coverage for the ASM during ...

Sales Trainee

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$19.95 - $22.05/hr

TRAINING The Sales Trainee (ST) is a training role. Upon successful participation in the training program, the ST is eligible to interview for open Account Sales Manager (ASM) roles. Upon completion ...

The Management Trainee will work closely with experienced managers to learn about Outside Sales, Production/Warehouse Management, Office Management, Service Management and ultimately prepare you for ...

The Management Trainee will work closely with experienced managers to learn about Outside Sales, Production/Warehouse Management, Office Management, Service Management and ultimately prepare you for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Operator Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$26.6K

$45.4K

$66.2K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Riverside, CA is $45,414.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,400.00 and $53,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operator trainee?

An operator trainee is an entry-level worker who is learning to operate machinery or equipment under supervision. The role typically involves gaining hands-on experience, following safety protocols, and may require certification or training programs before becoming fully qualified. It is a common starting point in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or transportation.

What are some common challenges faced by Operator Trainees during their initial training period?

Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, mastering complex machinery, and quickly learning strict safety protocols. The fast-paced environment can be demanding, requiring attention to detail and the ability to follow precise instructions. Additionally, trainees must develop effective communication skills to collaborate with experienced operators and supervisors, ensuring smooth transitions and minimizing errors. Overcoming these challenges is essential for building a strong foundation for future advancement within the organization.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Operator Trainees typically do not earn $4,000 per week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree include certain skilled trades like commercial truck drivers, oil and gas workers, or construction managers with experience, often requiring on-the-job training, certifications, or licenses. These jobs usually involve physical work, technical skills, or operating heavy equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, control systems, and machinery operation—sometimes supported by OSHA certifications or technical training—is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help trainees adapt quickly and handle operational challenges. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable plant or equipment operations while minimizing downtime and incidents.

What is the difference between Operator Trainee vs Equipment Operator?

AspectOperator TraineeEquipment Operator
CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingValid driver’s license, specialized certifications often required
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction sites, manufacturing plantsActive job sites, industrial facilities, construction zones
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level positions in construction, manufacturingOperational roles in construction, mining, manufacturing
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level roles, training programsSeeking job opportunities, skills required for operating equipment

In summary, an Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on training and gaining experience, often requiring minimal certifications. An Equipment Operator is a fully qualified worker responsible for operating machinery in various industrial settings. The trainee role prepares individuals for the more skilled, operational position of Equipment Operator.

What are operator trainees?

Operator trainees are entry-level employees who are undergoing training to learn how to operate machinery, equipment, or processes in various industries such as manufacturing, utilities, or transportation. They work under the supervision of experienced operators or trainers, gaining hands-on experience and developing the necessary skills for safe and efficient operation. The training period prepares them for more advanced roles and helps ensure they understand company procedures, safety protocols, and quality standards.

What is the role of an operator trainee?

An operator trainee is an entry-level worker who learns to operate machinery or equipment under supervision. They typically receive on-the-job training, may need to obtain relevant certifications, and develop skills in safety procedures and equipment operation to perform their duties effectively.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Heavy equipment operator trainee positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training and certification programs teach necessary skills. Employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license, and obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA? For Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,414 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
WASTEWATER PLANT OPERATOR I or WASTEWATER PLANT OPERATOR I TRAINEE

WASTEWATER PLANT OPERATOR I or WASTEWATER PLANT OPERATOR I TRAINEE

City of Riverside

Riverside, CA

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Position The City of Riverside is accepting applications for the position of Wastewater Plant Operator I or Wastewater Plant Operator I Trainee to fill one (1) vacancy in the Sewer Division of the Public Works Department. The eligibility list established may be used to fill the current and/or upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months. The Riverside Water Quality Control Plant (RWQCP) is located at 5950 Acorn Street Riverside, CA 92504.

The plant was recently expanded and retrofitted to meet the needs of future generations. This plant expansion introduced several new technologies designed to produce high quality effluent water and increase the plant's efficiency. As currently constructed, the RWQCP consists of two separate treatment plants with a common chlorine contact basin, de-chlorination and outfall structures.

These provide preliminary, primary, secondary and tertiary treatment for a rated capacity of 46 million gallons per day (MGD) or enough to fill up 70 Olympic size pools. The Wastewater Plant Operator I or Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee will perform skilled and routine work in the operation of all equipment in a wastewater treatment plant on an assigned or determined shift (day, swing or graveyard) and to do related work as required. ***MUST BE AVAILABLE TO WORK ALL SHIFTS*** Wastewater Plant Operator I $68,364.00 - $83,100.00 Annually This is the entry class in the wastewater plant operation series

Wastewater Plant Operator I Trainee $59,040.00 - $65,100.00 Annually Work Performed Typical duties may include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following: Participate and operate wastewater treatment facilities to control flow and processing of wastewater, sludge, and effluent; provide labor and support in the monitoring and regulation of flow and chemical additions. Evaluate gauges, meters, and control panels; perform maintenance, repair, or related work. Observe variations in operating conditions; assist in identifying functional and operational hazards, address issues, and ensure corrections are made for efficient continuance of activities

Read, process, and interpret observations, meter readings, and test results to determine processing requirements; recognize and respond to wastewater detriments and perform necessary actions to ensure appropriate treatment. Check, inspect, and monitor the operation of valves, gates, boilers, compressors, pumps, engines, and electric motors to control treatment processes. Follow and adhere to safe work practices; assist other personnel in proper work procedures and use of safety equipment; may use self-contained breathing apparatus.

Monitor and participate in activities to ensure the cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of facility areas. Maintain logs and record meter and gauge readings; collect samples and perform routine laboratory tests and analyses. Apply and operate wastewater processes and equipment utilizing a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System (SCADA).

Perform general operational tasks and trouble-shoot process problems; communicate, engage, and collaborate with other operators to ensure transparency in plant operations. Assist Maintenance in the identification, isolation, and removal of malfunctioning process equipment. Assist in the supervision and training of less experienced operators.

Perform other duties as assigned Qualifications Recruitment Guidelines: Wastewater Plant Operator I Education: High School graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED). Experience: One-year of full-time qualifying experience operating a wastewater treatment plant. Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee Education: High School graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED).

Experience: 250 hours to one-year of full-time qualifying experience operating a wastewater treatment plant. Licenses and Certifications: Possession of an appropriate, valid class "C" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. May require possession of or the ability to obtain an appropriate valid California Commercial Motor Vehicle Operator's License based upon operational need and the duties assigned.

Will be required to operate a forklift or other equipment. When assigned to Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a current, valid, Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator in Training Certificate issued by the State Water Resources Control Board. Proof of hours worked must be verified through the State Water Board's Operator Certification Information System (OCIS) or a letter from the Chief Plant Operator.

Wastewater Plant Operator Trainees must meet the minimum requirements of a Wastewater Plant Operator I within 12 months of appointment. When assigned to Wastewater Plant Operator I: Possession of a current, valid, Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the State Water Resources Control Board. Possession of a current, valid Grade II, Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the State Water Resources Control Board within 24 months of employment.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Work is done inside a plant and outside in the field with exposure to inclement weather, hazards, chemicals, equipment, construction materials, wastewater, and fumes. Employees may interact with staff and/or public and private representatives and will provide professional customer service. Selection Process DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION: 1) Completed Employment Application 2) Completed Supplemental Questionnaire 3) Current Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate (must be scanned and attached to the online application).

4) Document of proof of hours worked verified through the State Water Board's Operator Certification Information System (OCIS) or a letter from the Chief Plant Operator. Candidates who cannot verify their work experience at the time of application must provide proof of hours worked upon selection for the position. PLEASE NOTE: FOR DIRECTIONS ON ATTACHING A DOCUMENT TO AN ON-LINE APPLICATION, OR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide).

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS: If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions. Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment.

The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification.

Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver's License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process

It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment. Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination. NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards.

Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list. EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer. Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S

college or university. Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options: An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at Members - NACES or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc. (AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/

An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university. All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement. THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.


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