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Wastewater Operator In Training Jobs in California

Milk Specialties Company

Wastewater Operator

Visalia, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Participate in training programs to stay current on wastewater treatment technologies and regulatory changes Qualifications: * Proven experience in operating and maintaining wastewater treatment ...

Milk Specialties

Wastewater Operator

Visalia, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Participate in training programs to stay current on wastewater treatment technologies and regulatory changes Qualifications: * Proven experience in operating and maintaining wastewater treatment ...

Mcfarland City

Utilities Operator in Training

Mcfarland, CA · On-site

$21.07 - $26.97/hr

... and wastewater operations. Under close supervision, incumbents receive on-the-job training in the ... Operator Certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board within 18 ...

Provost & Pritchard

Wastewater Operator

Hanford, CA · On-site

Visually observe the operations of various treatment facilities and record those observations in ... Wastewater Treatment Operator certification (Grade 2) desired * One or more years work experience ...

Provost & Pritchard

Wastewater Operator

Hanford, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $29.50/hr

Visually observe the operations of various treatment facilities and record those observations in ... Wastewater Treatment Operator certification (Grade 2) desired * One or more years work experience ...

Veolia

Wastewater Operator III

Palm Springs, CA

Provide on-the-job training for Operators in Training and Operator I in operational, maintenance ... A valid California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator's Grade III certification. Physical ...

City of Oxnard

Senior Wastewater Operator

Oxnard, CA

$96K - $133K/yr

In this key leadership role, you will work collaboratively with Operations, Maintenance ... Provide work direction, instruction, and on-the-job training to operators and support staff ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Wastewater Operator

Arvin, CA

$31.82 - $35/hr

Company Description Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United ... Required Certification/Licenses/Training: * Minimum CA SWRCB Wastewater Grade I certification

Veolia Environnement SA

Wastewater Operator

Arvin, CA · On-site

$31.82 - $35/hr

Company Description Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United ... Required Certification/Licenses/Training: * Minimum CA SWRCB Wastewater Grade I certification

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Wastewater Operator In Training information

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$14

$27

$44

How much do wastewater operator in training jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in training in California is $27.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.62 and $33.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Wastewater Operator In Training?

A Wastewater Operator In Training is an entry-level professional who assists in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities under the supervision of certified operators. They learn to monitor, control, and troubleshoot processes that treat water to remove contaminants before it is released back into the environment. This role involves hands-on work with equipment, recording data, and following safety and regulatory procedures while gaining the experience required to become a certified wastewater operator.

What are some common challenges faced by a Wastewater Operator In Training, and how can they be overcome?

As a Wastewater Operator In Training, you may encounter challenges such as learning complex regulatory requirements, adapting to shift work, and mastering the operation of diverse treatment equipment. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but hands-on experience, mentorship from senior operators, and diligent study of standard operating procedures can ease the learning curve. Proactively asking questions and participating in safety and technical training sessions will also help you build confidence and competence in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Wastewater Operator In Training, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wastewater Operator In Training, you need a solid understanding of basic math, science, and mechanical skills, usually supported by a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with water treatment equipment, SCADA systems, and an operator-in-training certification are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to safety help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient and safe treatment processes, compliance with regulations, and protection of public health and the environment.

What is the difference between Wastewater Operator In Training vs Wastewater Operator?

AspectWastewater Operator In TrainingWastewater Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma; may need state-specific training or certificationsRequires valid wastewater operator license or certification
Work EnvironmentSupervised, entry-level role in treatment plants or pumping stationsFull responsibilities in operating and maintaining wastewater treatment systems
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with routine tasks, learning operational proceduresPerforming daily operations, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance

In summary, a Wastewater Operator In Training is an entry-level position focused on learning and assisting, while a Wastewater Operator has full certification and responsibility for plant operations.

What are popular job titles related to Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in California? For Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Wastewater Operator In Training jobs? Cities in California with the most Wastewater Operator In Training job openings:
Wastewater Operator In Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator In Training job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,912 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Wastewater Operator / Operator in Training

Wastewater Operator / Operator in Training

American Water Works Service Company, Inc.

Pacific Grove, CA

$35.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

American Water rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 rated energy and utility

Job description

Requisition ID:  110053 

Share Our Purpose.  Be Yourself.  Feel Valued. 

People are the heart of our business. As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career.  Our benefits packages focus on key areas such as health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.

We are Beautifully Different. We strongly believe having diversity across our company makes us more successful and helps us provide essential services to our customers. We are stronger because we embrace different ideas, viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds. American Water is the best choice for your next role!  Click here for more information on our inclusion, diversity, and equity journey.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations.  American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Position Information:

Posted Range: 

$35.39/hour

This position may be eligible for annual incentive pay and contracted increases as determined by the collective bargaining agreement, and you will have the opportunity for continued salary growth. 

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more! 

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally! 

  • #LI-Onsite
  • #LI-MR23
Primary Role
  • Start-up, shut-down, routine operations, and periodic operating checks of plant equipment, to include but not be limited to pumping systems, chemical feeders, auxiliary equipment, and measuring and control systems.
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance, such as lubrication, operating adjustments, cleaning, and painting equipment.
  • Load and unload chemicals either by hand or using chemical-handling equipment, i.e. hand trucks, hoists and/or chemical transfer pumps.
  • Perform corrective maintenance on plant mechanical equipment and telemetry, i.e. chemical feed pumps, motors, and valves.
  • Maintain plant records, including operating logs, daily diaries, chemical inventories, data logs and SCADA data/trends.
  • Monitor the status of plant operating guidelines, such as flows, pressures, chemical feeds, levels and water quality indicators.
  • Performs regular Water Quality sampling, including but not limited to bacteriological, organic and inorganic, point of entry, and process sampling (turbidity, chlorine residuals, pH, etc.) as needed and field lab testing as required.
  • Order chemicals, parts, and tools.
  • Conduct safety inspections, follow safety rules for plant operations, and also participate in safety tailgate meetings.
  • Communicate effectively with other operators and supervisors on the technical level expected for the position.
  • Make arithmetic calculations to determine chemical feed rates, flow quantities, detention and contact times, and hydraulic loadings as required for plant operations. 
  • Performs other similar work which he/she may be called upon, and any other work as necessary to satisfactorily complete the job which he/she has been assigned. 
  • Drives a company vehicle and operates equipment according to established safety procedures and policies. 
Work Schedule
  • Forty (40) hours per week being five (5) consecutive days of eight (8) hours each, exclusive of lunch periods.
  • The employee is required to work rotating shifts and weekends and is subject to 24-hour call out. 
Knowledge/Skills
  • Ability to carry out oral and written instructions.
  • Requires physical and mechanical abilities.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office, Word and Excel highly desirable. 
Experience/Education
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • One year of mechanical, utility, or manufacturing experience preferred
  • Valid driver's license required, CDL license preferred
Certifications & Licenses
  • Any person hired transferred or promoted to the position of Wastewater Operator must take and pass the Wastewater Operator Grade I certification as provided by the applicable regulatory agency, within one year of employment or transfer or promotion into the position and must obtain a Wastewater Grade II certification within thirty (30) months of the employment or transfer date, subject to the requirements of the applicable regulatory agency.
  • Must have and maintain an appropriate valid California Driver’s license.
  • Must have and maintain Class B with tanker endorsement within two years of hire or reclassification date but is desired upon time of awarding the position. 
Other
  • Materials Used: various cleaning compounds, materials, chemicals, and tools used in the treatment of wastewater.
  • Cleaning Compounds Used: solvents and everyday cleaning supplies.
  • Chemicals Used: Treatment chemicals including but not limited to: Ferric Chloride, Sodium Hypochlorite, Sodium Hydroxide, Zinc ortho-Phosphate, and various polymers.
  • Equipment/Tools Used: All applicable equipment needed to perform the job function including, but not limited to small hand tools, calibration and testing equipment, and any other tools necessary to perform and complete the duties of the job. 
Work Environment
  • Physical demands include, but not limited to standing, climbing, walking, lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, grasping, reaching, stooping, crouching, sitting, etc.
  • Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move over 100 pounds.
  • Vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, etc.
  • May require working in trenches, tanks and/or elevated areas.
Competencies
Champions safety
Collaborates
Cultivates innovation
Customer obsessed
Drives Results
Nimble learning

Join American Water...We Keep Life Flowing™

American Water is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants based on his or her age, race, color, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, citizenship, or because they are an individual with a disability, protected veteran or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws.

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About American Water

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With a history dating back to 1886, American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 6,500 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and regulated-like drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people in 24 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to help keep their lives flowing.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Camden, NJ, US

Year founded

1886

Social media

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