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Wastewater Operator In Training Jobs in California

Wastewater Technician

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $32/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for operating and monitoring the facility's wastewater treatment system, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and supporting food safety and ...

Follow the detailed training plan as specified in the Results Producing Management (RPM) schedule ... Monitor and record the chemical analysis of wastewater entering and leaving the wastewater ...

Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Ventura, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $148K/yr

The position will involve work related to a variety of water and wastewater infrastructure ... A combination of training, education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor s degree in Civil ...

Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Ventura, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $148K/yr

The position will involve work related to a variety of water and wastewater infrastructure ... A combination of training, education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor s degree in Civil ...

Showing results 41-60

Wastewater Operator In Training information

See California salary details

$14

$27

$44

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

As of Aug 20, 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wastewater operator in training?

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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator In Training job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,912 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Wastewater Treatment Operator - CA Grade 2

Woodard & Curran

Victorville, CA โ€ข On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Woodard & Curran is an employee-owned engineering, science, and operations firm dedicated to clean water, a safe environment, healthy communities, and happy people. We foster an inclusive, collaborative culture that supports professional growth, flexibility, and meaningful work, empowering our employees to make a lasting impact on our clients, communities, and the planet.


Woodard & Curran draws on the experience of hundreds of certified operators across the country, backed by the knowledge and skills of hundreds more engineers, scientists, and regulatory experts, to quickly tackle the most challenging operational issues and keep treatment plants running efficiently and in full compliance.ย  Woodard & Curran also aids employees in earning, upgrading, and keeping their certifications within the industry.
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We have an immediate opening for a minimum of a Grade 2 Wastewater Treatment Operator in Victorville, California. This position is based at a state-of-the-art project combining both industrial and sanitary wastewater treatment for the Southern California Logistics Airport (SCLA) facility.ย  The diversity of this project presents unique and on-going opportunities for learning, development, and growth.ย  If you enjoy working outdoors protecting nature's precious resource, water, then this position is for you!ย  Woodard & Curran is dedicated to our employee's growth and development and wants to help you on your career path.
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This facility requires a Grade 2 State of California Wastewater Treatment License in order to operate independently.
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In this role, you will work under the direct or general supervision of the Lead Operator and Plant Manager. The applicant will learn and perform a variety of operational duties to control the processing of wastewater and effluent. Regulating influent and effluent flows within the system; monitoring the operation of a variety of wastewater treatment plant equipment, assisting with basic laboratory testing, sample collection and performing other related duties, as assigned. You will also perform preventative/corrective maintenance in support of the wastewater treatment plant.ย 
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Schedule: Four, 10hr. shifts (6am to 4pm/Sun-Wed) after onboarding and training. Required to work rotating standby/on call, including weekends.ย  A $200 stipend will be provided for on-call time.
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This position is eligible for a $2,500.00 sign-on bonus.
What you will be doing at Woodard & Curran
  • Minimum Grade 2 State of California Wastewater Treatment License.
  • Ensure permit compliance with environmental and public health & safety standards. This includes monitoring plant conditions and executing process control changes, as needed, to optimize treatment efficiency.
  • Operate valves, pumps, and automated controls to regulate the flow of wastewater throughout the treatment plant.
  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on a variety of treatment plant equipment, such as electric motors, electric powered pumps, air compressors, emergency systems, pressure and flow regulators, analyzers, chemical feed systems, and aeration blowers.ย MBR & UV disinfection systems experience is a plus.
  • Monitor, observe, and interpret operating conditions and performance and initiate corrective action.
  • Review and analyze automated information and control system data.
  • Perform laboratory and process tests and interpret results to optimize plant performance and makes appropriate process control changes.ย 
  • Maintain accurate records, including calculating flow rates and the daily use of chemicals, gauge and meter readings, and completing required monthly inspections.ย 
  • Use a variety of hand and power tools and laboratory testing equipment.
  • Perform a variety of custodial and housekeeping duties.
  • Provide direction and training to less experienced staff related to plant operations.ย 
  • Participate in emergency response.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
What you will need to succeed
  • A self-motivated, positive, can-do attitude!
  • Possess and maintain, as a minimum, a valid California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator's Certification (grade 2 or higher) by the California SWRCB.ย 
  • Minimum of five years of professional experience in the operation and maintenance of a water or wastewater treatment facility is desired.
  • Proficiency with computers and mobile devices, including an ability to work with: SCADA, Microsoft Word, Excel, Maintenance Management Programs, and other site-specific systems.ย 
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent.ย 
  • CA Class C Driver's License.ย 
  • Ability to lift 40 pounds on a regular basis.
  • Successful candidates will be required to complete a pre-employment background check, drug screen, and physical.
$40 - $45 an hour
Depending on experience and licensure.

Woodard & Curran offers a comprehensive benefits package. For more information about our benefits & workplace policies visit Benefit & Policy Information - Woodard & Curran.

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E-Verify Participation: Woodard & Curran participates in E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. As part of this process, we provide access to the Right to Work & E-Verify postings.

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Equal Employment Opportunity & Accessibility: Woodard & Curran is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to non-discrimination and make employment decisions based on job-related factors. Individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact Beth Sweitzer.

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Workplace Discrimination is Illegal Posting

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