Trainee Wastewater Operator Class 3 Jobs in Riverside, CA

THE POSITION: THE OPPORTUNITY: The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) is seeking motivated and safety-focused individuals to join our Operations team as Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators I-V (DOQ). In this role, you'll be part of the essential frontline workforce responsible for operating and maintaining our regional water recycling facilities-helping ensure reliable, high-quality service to the community we serve. As a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, you'll gain hands-on experience with advanced treatment processes and state-of-the-art technology while working side-by-side with a collaborative team of professional operators.

From monitoring treatment systems to collecting samples and performing lab tests, you'll play a critical role in protecting water quality, safeguarding the environment, and supporting the Agency's mission of sustainability. Whether you're just starting your career in wastewater operations or are an experienced professional ready to advance, this role provides meaningful work, professional development, and the chance to make a lasting impact in your community. Successful candidates may be assigned to work at any of the Agency's facilities and/or multiple locations.

This position serves the front-line operation of the various wastewater treatment facilities. Dependent upon possession and grade of wastewater or water certification, employees will receive various levels of on-the-job training and guidance from operations staff as required to safely and efficiently meet day-to-day compliance. Staff in this position follows prescribed and standardized procedures, under various levels of supervision of a higher-level Operator on duty.

4/10 work schedule; w/ability to work varying shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, on-call duty and respond to call backs, and may be required to work alone. EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: For All Positions: Graduation from high school or GED equivalent with additional college-level coursework in chemistry, biology, and wastewater and/or water treatment technology; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. In addition, when assigned to: Operator III: At least two years of progressively responsible experience in wastewater or water treatment plant operations; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Experience in a public agency is preferred. Operator IV/V: At least four years of progressively responsible experience in skilled, journey-level wastewater or water treatment plant operation; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred.

LICENSES; CERTIFICATES; SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: For All Positions: A valid California Class C driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Agency's vehicle insurance program. California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment and/or Distribution Operator certifications are desirable. Annual certification for CPR, First Aid, HAZWOPER, forklift, and confined-space entry.

Annual completion of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) fit test per OSHA requirements is required within six months of appointment and during the course of employment. The employee may be required to wear other types of respirators, dust, and particulate or cartridge masks dependent upon the work environment. In addition, when assigned to: Operator-In-Training: A valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I Certificate or higher must be obtained within 24 months from date of hire to advance to the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I/II class.

Failure to obtain a Grade I or higher certificate could result in termination of employment. Operator I: A valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I Certification is required at hire or promotion. Operator II: A valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade II Certification is required at hire or promotion.

Operator III: A valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade III Certification is required at hire or promotion. Operator IV/V: A valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade IV/V Certification is required at promotion or hire. Skills and Abilities Ability to adhere to established safety policies and procedures, including proper use of PPE, confined space entry, and lockout/tagout practices, to ensure personal and team protection.

Ability to demonstrate a clear understanding of the purpose, function, and design of treatment processes and equipment to optimize operations and achieve performance objectives. Experienced in identifying and resolving process and equipment issues using SCADA data, diagnostic tools, and established troubleshooting techniques to ensure operational reliability. Knowledge of how equipment and process performance affects upstream and downstream operations, with the ability to recognize both positive and negative impacts when systems are in or out of service.

Skilled in monitoring, interpreting, and acting on KPIs related to chemical usage, equipment performance, and process efficiency to maintain cost control and operational excellence. Ability to receive and apply instruction and training provided by operations, safety personnel, and other Agency staff. To view the full job description, please click the following links: Operator-In-Training OP 171 ($35.5606 - $43.3279 Hourly) Operator I OP 174 ($41.1621 - $50.1520 Hourly) Operator II OP 176 ($45.3770 - $55.2880 Hourly) Operator III OP 178 ($50.0275 - $60.9529 Hourly) Operator IV/V OP 180 ($55.1563 - $67.2025 Hourly) FLSA: Non-Exempt Probationary Period: 12 months About Us The Inland Empire Utilities Agency is a regional wastewater treatment agency and wholesale distributor of imported water to approximately 950,000 people across 242-square miles in western San Bernardino County

Under the leadership of a directly elected five-member Board of Directors, the Agency is committed to supporting the needs of its service area and safeguarding public health through significant investments in a diverse water supply portfolio, reliable municipal/industrial wastewater collection and treatment services, and other related utility services in a regionally planned and cost-effective manner. As a member agency of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan), IEUA provides supplemental water supplies, primarily via the State Water Project (SWP) for distribution among nine retail agencies. IEUA also replenishes local groundwater supplies with captured stormwater and recycled water produced by IEUA that is later extracted by local water agencies for use as a drinking water supply.

At IEUA, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture that promotes growth, accountability, and collaboration. Our eight organizational attributes are the foundations of our success and guide us in our daily operations. Safety- We are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.

Continuous Learning and Improvement- Our commitment to professional development ensures that our team members are always equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. Efficiency- We strive to optimize our processes and resources to deliver the highest quality services in the most effective manner. Collaboration- By leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise, we create innovative solutions and drive our mission forward.

Accountability- By owning our responsibilities, following through on our commitments, and doing the right thing when no one is looking, we ensure that we meet our goals and uphold our standards of excellence. Coaching for Performance- Our leaders are committed to providing guidance and support to help team members reach their full potential. Respect- We value each individual's contributions and treat everyone with dignity and consideration.

Employee Engagement- By fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, we ensure that our employees are motivated and invested in our mission. Click the links to learn more about our Agency's Mission, Vision, and Values, including our Strategic Plan. SELECTION PROCESS: Applications for this recruitment will be accepted on a continuous basis.

The deadline for first review is Tuesday, August 4, 2026. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as this recruitment may close at anytime after the fire review period. There are multiple vacancies in the Operations Unit.

This recruitment is being conducted to fill multiple vacancies and will establish an eligibility list which may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur during the active status of the eligibility list. Salary Range: Operator-In-Training OP 171 ($35.5606 - $43.3279 Hourly) Operator I OP 174 ($41.1621 - $50.1520 Hourly) Operator II OP 176 ($45.3770 - $55.2880 Hourly) Operator III OP 178 ($50.0275 - $60.9529 Hourly) Operator IV/V OP 180 ($55.1563 - $67.2025 Hourly) FLSA: Non-Exempt Probationary Period: 12 months All employment applications will be reviewed for accuracy, completion, relevant experience, education, training and other job-related qualifications. Applicants with the strongest background relating to the responsibilities of this position will be invited to participate in the testing process which may include one or more of the following: written test, oral interview, performance/practical examination

A second round of interviews may also be conducted. Communications regarding this recruitment will be sent by email, and candidates will need to monitor their inbox/spam/junk email folder regularly to ensure they do not miss any relevant communication. Any applicant requiring reasonable accommodation during the selection process due to a qualified disability must inform the Human Resources Office at (909) 993-1640 or hrdept@ieua.org at least 72 hours in advance of the need for accommodation

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency does not sponsor employment visas at the time of hire or during the course of employment. All applicants and employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout the duration of employment. THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.

"The Agency's success is obtained by creating a positive and diverse work environment which recognizes individual differences and experiences".