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Wastewater Operator In Training Jobs in Riverside, CA

Analyze lab data, operator reports, and chemical usage to resolve operational issues and improve ... training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations Incentive ...

Equipment Operator OIT/I/II

Redlands, CA ยท On-site

$43K - $64K/yr

Equipment Operator in Training (OIT): This is the entry level in the class series. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level, but are not ...

Manager in Training

Corona, CA ยท On-site

$56K - $60K/yr

As a Manager in Training (MIT), you are a driven individual with the willingness to learn all aspects of operating and maintaining a valuable multi-million dollar asset in a fast-tracked approach.

As a Manager in Training (MIT), you are a driven individual with the willingness to learn all aspects of operating and maintaining a valuable multi-million dollar asset in a fast-tracked approach.

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Wastewater Operator In Training information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$29

$46

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

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in training in Riverside, CA is $29.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.83 and $35.10 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.

Where do wastewater operators make the most money?

Wastewater operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and more advanced treatment facilities, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment plant also influence earning potential. Generally, operators working in larger municipalities or specialized facilities tend to have higher wages.

Is being a wastewater operator difficult?

Wastewater operators in training often find the job challenging due to the technical skills required, such as understanding treatment processes and operating complex equipment. The role involves attention to safety protocols, troubleshooting, and sometimes working in confined or outdoor environments, but proper training and certification can help manage these challenges.

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.

Are wastewater operators in demand?

Wastewater operators are in demand due to ongoing needs for water treatment and environmental compliance. The job often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of treatment processes, making qualified operators essential for maintaining public health and environmental standards.

How much do wastewater operators make?

In Oregon, wastewater operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $55,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific facility. Entry-level operators may start at lower wages, while experienced operators with advanced certifications can earn higher salaries. The job often requires knowledge of treatment processes, safety protocols, and equipment operation.
What are popular job titles related to Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Riverside, CA? For Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Wastewater Operator In Training jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Wastewater Operator In Training job openings:
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator In Training job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,220 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Wastewater Operations Supervisor

Wastewater Operations Supervisor

City of Redlands

Redlands, CA โ€ข On-site

$97K - $118K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description Under general direction, plans, supervises, and coordinates the activities, operations, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of the City's wastewater and water reclamation facilities, coordinates assigned activities with other divisions, outside agencies, and the general public; and provides highly responsible and complex staff assistance to the MUED management team. Serves as a backup to the Chief Plant Operator. Exercises direct supervision over assigned staff.

Examples of Duties Examples of duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Directs, organizes, and assigns wastewater operations programs and staff, provides project management, and contract administration, including all aspects of wastewater treatment and water reclamation system; Assists in the preparation and implementation of the budget for wastewater operation functions; monitors and controls expenditures; Prepares forecast and justification of funds required for personnel, equipment, materials, and supplies; Establishes goals, objectives, schedules, and methods of wastewater and recycled water treatment, water quality, makes recommendations, and assists in the development of long-range plans; Conducts special studies to determine areas of improvement and/or new programs; implements programs as directed. Directs the preparation and submittal of detailed wastewater quality and water reclamation reports to various federal, state, and local regulatory agencies; Directs the development of wastewater and reclaimed water treatment work plans and ensures compliance; Reviews and evaluates equipment, methods, and procedures; Assists engineering with the design of new wastewater system installations; Plans, organizes, and supervises new wastewater construction projects; Prepares staff reports and necessary backup for wastewater operations issues to be presented to City Council for approval or information; Makes critical decisions to resolve emergency conditions resulting from wastewater and water reclamation system malfunctions; Coordinates the preparation of detailed specifications for the purchase of wastewater equipment, and the development of maintenance management procedures; Prepares, maintains, and presents maintenance and operations logs, progress reports, regulatory reports, and other special reports as requested, ensuring compliance with various federal, state, and local regulatory requirements; Administers agreements with consultants, engineers, contractors, and vendors, including development of work scope, costs, and details sufficient to issue bids, requests for proposals, agreements, and purchase requisitions; Tracks all agreements and purchase orders; reviews and prepares invoices for processing; Provides technical guidance to hydro-geology and engineering consultants to ensure the City's policies and objectives are met within the framework of regulatory requirements; Reads and interprets drawings, blueprints, and specifications; Inspects completed projects, systems, and installations for compliance with plans and specifications as prepared; Supervises, trains, recruits, and evaluates assigned personnel; Assists in the review of plans and service requirements for proposed residential and commercial development, ensuring incorporation of specified construction requirements; Responds by telephone or in person to citizen inquiries, requests, and complaints; Serves as representative of the City in relations, negotiations, and information exchange with federal, state, and local regulatory agencies; Represents the City in relations, negotiations, and information exchange with federal, state, and local agencies, and at public meetings regarding wastewater and reclaimed water treatment activities; Investigates and reviews accidents involving wastewater personnel and equipment; Maintains industry contacts and remains informed regarding federal, state, and local changes in wastewater policy and requirements, including regional developments and their potential political, operational, and economic impacts to the City's system; and Performs related duties and responsibilities as assigned. Qualifications Experience: Five years of increasingly responsible experience in the management of wastewater treatment, operations and maintenance, laboratory operations, and regulatory compliance.

Two years of experience in a leadership or supervisory capacity. Education: High school diploma or equivalent; Completion of 30 semester or 45 quarter units of college-level coursework in chemistry, biology, civil or environmental engineering, or a related field. For college-level coursework obtained outside of the U.S, an official equivalency is required

Licenses and Certificates: Possession and maintenance of a valid California driver's license at the time of hire. Possession and maintenance of a Grade III Wastewater Operator Certificate issued by the State of California. Ability to obtain and maintain a Grade IV Wastewater Operator Certificate issued by the State of California within 12 months of hire.

Desirable Certificates: Possession of a Grade V Wastewater Operator Certificate issued by the State of California is desirable. Special Requirements: Essential functions and duties require the following physical abilities and work environment: Ability to work in a standard office environment; ability to travel to different sites and locations. Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, stoop, squat, crawl, twist, climb, and lift 50lbs.

Exposure to heat, noise, outdoors, vibration, confining work space, chemicals, explosive materials, mechanical hazards, and electrical hazards, toxic substances, foul odors, wastewater, sludge, effluents, bacteria, viruses, and traffic hazards. Ability to walk on uneven surfaces. Supplemental Information IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application material that they meet the minimum qualifications of the position.

All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the positions may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skills, training, and experience for the position. The employment application must be completed and submitted online.

Applicants must list current and past work experience. Do not indicate "See Resume". Proof of education, such as but not limited to, university/college transcripts and degrees, must be submitted online with your application.

Applicants are responsible for attaching proof of education, certification, and/or license to each position for which they apply. An applicant with a college degree obtained outside the United States must have education records evaluated by a credentials evaluation service. This evaluation must be submitted by the application deadline.

Applicants are required to submit the following documents with their application: 1. Unofficial transcripts showing completion of 30 semester or 45 quarter units of college-level coursework in chemistry, biology, civil or environmental engineering, or a related field. For college-level coursework obtained outside of the U.S, an official equivalency is required

2. Possession and maintenance of a Grade III Wastewater Operator Certificate issued by the State of California. Failure to provide all required documents can result in elimination from the selection process.

Please note, the City of Redlands' preferred method of communication with applicants is via e-mail. As such, please ensure you verify the e-mail address on your application, and check your e-mail frequently, including your spam and junk folders. The successful candidate will be required to undergo a reference/background check (to include a conviction record) and pass a post-offer pre-employment medical examination (which may include a drug/alcohol screening depending upon job classification).

The City of Redlands utilizes E-Verify, and new employees must provide documentation to establish both identity and work authorization. For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact Sophia Diaz at sdiaz@cityofredlands.org or Julie Maher at jmaher@cityofredlands.org