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Wastewater Internship Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Wastewater Internship information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$19

$26

How much do wastewater internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater internship in Riverside, CA is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wastewater internship?

A wastewater internship is a temporary, supervised work experience program designed for students or recent graduates interested in learning about wastewater treatment and management. Interns typically assist with laboratory testing, data collection, equipment maintenance, and other tasks related to the operation of wastewater treatment plants. This hands-on experience helps interns develop technical skills, understand regulatory requirements, and gain insight into environmental protection efforts. Wastewater internships can be valuable stepping stones to careers in environmental science, engineering, or public works.

What types of hands-on experience can I expect during a wastewater internship?

During a Wastewater Internship, you can expect to gain hands-on experience with tasks such as sampling and testing water quality, assisting with routine equipment maintenance, and supporting day-to-day plant operations. Interns often work closely with experienced operators and engineers, learning how to monitor treatment processes and troubleshoot issues as they arise. You'll also become familiar with regulatory compliance requirements and recordkeeping, which are essential skills for advancing in the field. This practical exposure is designed to help you build a strong foundation for a career in environmental or civil engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wastewater intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wastewater Intern, you typically need a background in environmental science or engineering, basic knowledge of water treatment processes, and enrollment in a relevant degree program. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, data analysis software, and compliance documentation is often required. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork and communication skills set standout interns apart. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient wastewater treatment operations and supporting regulatory compliance during your internship.

What is the difference between Wastewater Internship vs Wastewater Technician?

AspectWastewater InternshipWastewater Technician
CredentialsTypically students or recent graduates; may require coursework in environmental science or engineeringHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentSupervised, educational setting at treatment plants or labsFull-time, hands-on work at wastewater treatment facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by educational institutions and entry-level programsEmployed by municipal or private wastewater treatment companies
Search & Comparison IntentLearning opportunities, entry-level experienceOperational roles, technical skills development

In summary, a wastewater internship is an educational, entry-level position designed for students gaining initial experience, while a wastewater technician is a full-time role requiring more technical skills and certifications for operational work at treatment facilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Wastewater jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Wastewater Internship jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Wastewater Internship jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wastewater Internship jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Wastewater Internship jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Wastewater Internship jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Wastewater Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Wastewater Internship job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 60% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,456 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Assistant Engineer II - Instrumentation & Controls (Experienced)

Hazen and Sawyer

Irvine, CA • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Hazen and Sawyer is seeking an experienced AE II in our I&C group in one of our office locations in California: Los Angeles, Irvine, San Diego, or Concord.

Why Hazen and Sawyer:

  • Founded in 1951 by the son of Allen Hazen (developer of the Hazen-Williams equation), we are an employee-owned company with a singular focus on "all things water."
  • Our work includes planning, design, and oversight of construction of environmental infrastructure – for water, wastewater, and stormwater management.
  • We foster a work environment low on bureaucracy and high in creativity.
  • We recruit talented professionals, provide them with challenging, interesting, and creative assignments, and furnish them with the tools they need to succeed.
  • We currently have over 2,000 employees in 70+ offices throughout the United States, Latin America, Canada, and the UK.
  • A flexible hybrid work schedule supports today's busy professionals.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare Process and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), control system network diagrams, control panel wiring diagrams, equipment layouts, I&C system specifications, and installation details.
  • Coordinate with the other disciplines (process/mechanical, structural, architectural, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and site civil).
  • Inspect, test, and approve I&C work provided by contractors at water and wastewater facilities.

Required Qualifications:

  • Experience with AutoCAD and/or Auto CAD Plant 3D software or be willing to learn.
  • Experience with Microsoft Office products is required.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills are required.
  • Knowledge of water/wastewater or industrial process instrumentation and equipment is desirable.
  • Prior working experience or internship in the water and wastewater industry is highly desirable.
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) Certificate, or ability to obtain within 1 year is desirable.
  • 2-5 years of experience.

What We Offer:

  • Comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision, and prescription plans).
  • Pre-tax flexible spending plans for medical, dependent care, and transportation.
  • Short and long-term disability, and employer paid life insurance.
  • Paid holidays, floating holidays, and paid time off (PTO).
  • Employer-contributed 401(k) plan and additional financial planning support.
  • Professional growth opportunities, including tuition reimbursement, in-house training, and incentives for professional registration and professional organization memberships. 
  • Starting pay range for this position depends on skills, experience, education and geographical location.


#li-hybrid


HAZEN AND SAWYER logo

About HAZEN AND SAWYER

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hazen and Sawyer, headquartered in New York, NY, US, operates within the field of environmental science and engineering. Founded in 1951, the firm specializes in designing drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater facilities, comprehensive solid waste services, and other environmental infrastructure projects. Striving towards nurturing clean, safe water supply, the company upholds it as its primary mission. Their dedication reflects in their numerous honors received at the national and regional levels, including awards from the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Council of Engineering Companies, and Water Environment Federation.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1951