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Wastewater Operator In Training Jobs in Riverside, CA

Stantec

Regional Sector Leader, Wastewater

Irvine, CA · On-site

... operating in California and Hawai'i. You will work closely with our regional leadership team as ... job training, exposure to different levels of responsibility, interaction with clients and ...

Xylem

Field Service Engineer - Wastewater

Riverside, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... Provide on-site customer training and technical support * Support equipment maintenance, including ...

Xylem

Field Service Engineer - Wastewater

Irvine, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

As a leading water technology company with 23,000 employees operating in over 150 countries, Xylem ... Provide on-site customer training and technical support * Support equipment maintenance, including ...

GFT.

Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

Irvine, CA

$80K - $180K/yr

... operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide recommendations for treatment and ... training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations • Incentive ...

GFT.

Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

Irvine, CA

$80K - $180K/yr

... operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide recommendations for treatment and ... training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations Incentive ...

GFT.

Wastewater Treatment Process Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

... operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide recommendations for treatment and ... training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations • Incentive ...

Rocket

Be Seen First

Store Manager In Training

Irvine, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $21/hr

Join Our Team as a Manager-In-Training (MIT)! Are you a dynamic leader ready to take the next step ... Rocket has established itself as one of the largest independent owners, operators of gas stations ...

Rocket

Be Seen First

Store Manager In Training

Perris, CA · On-site

$20.40 - $21.90/hr

Join Our Team as a Manager-In-Training (MIT)! Are you a dynamic leader ready to take the next step ... Rocket has established itself as one of the largest independent owners, operators of gas stations ...

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All JobsWastewater Operator In Training JobsWastewater Operator In Training Jobs in Riverside, CA

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:
Wastewater Operator In Training jobs near you
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 Treatment Engineering Lead

Wastewater Treatment Engineering Lead

Ardurra Group, Inc.

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Ardurra is seeking a Wastewater Treatment Engineering Lead to join our team ideally in Irvine, CA., but could be based out of any of our California offices.
We are a team-oriented and highly motivated group who strongly believe in and understands the importance of balancing work and personal life. Our recent awards, from Great Place to Work and Zweig Top Firms, are a testament to this value and the support we provide to our fellow team members. Our collaborative work environment and inclusive operating philosophy allow us to maintain a positive work culture while providing excellent service to our clients.
Primary Function

This position will work closely with Operations Managers, Principals, and other staff to drive business within the California market. This role will involve collaborating with local water professionals to develop and implement an innovative business strategy, identifying and leading key regional pursuits, managing large multidisciplinary projects in wastewater treatment, water reuse, and biosolids, and building strategic relationships with clients and teaming partners.

Primary Duties

  • Stay current on regulatory policy changes and maintain working relationships with regulatory officials.

  • Contribute to business development efforts, including pursuit strategy, prepositioning, proposal development, and project interviews.

  • Serve as a technical advisor to design teams and clients throughout the project lifecycle—planning, design, construction, startup and commissioning, and operations.

  • Ensure joint accountability for project execution, quality, and financial performance.

  • Mentor and supervise team members to build best-in-class capabilities.

  • Strengthen technical skills within the team through staff development and recruitment.

  • Manage projects to deliver a high level of quality within budget and schedule constraints.

  • Act as a technology leader, recognized as a company/industry expert within your specialty.

  • Experience in wastewater and reuse design, with an emphasis on treatment processes and plant design for consulting engineering.

Education and Experience Requirements

  • Collaborate with leadership to focus on water reuse, wastewater treatment, and biosolids clients.
  • Foster and develop relationships with design-build partners, assisting with pursuits in strategic planning, stakeholder outreach, proposal development, and project management.
  • Build and nurture strategic relationships with key officials, industry leaders, and agency management, working alongside Operations Managers and company leadership.
  • Engage actively in local professional organizations, such as CWEA, AWWA, and Water Use, aiming for leadership roles on boards or committees.
  • Lead project delivery by providing technical direction and fiscal oversight, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget, and promoting quality control.
  • Identify business development opportunities that advance MKN’s presence in Southern California’s wastewater/water reuse sectors.

Why Ardurra?

While Ardurra offers competitive compensation and rich benefits programs, it is our culture that truly sets us apart from our peers. We nurture a family-like culture, striving to create a work environment that is enjoyable, challenging and rewarding but also fun. We are acutely focused on developing our staff, whether through our internal Ardurra Academy or through our industry-leading Leadership program. We have made a deliberate and focused commitment to nurture a people-centric culture where people are: valued as individuals; supported in their professional and career development with multiple, varied career paths; provided the tools and resources to be successful, engaged, and satisfied in their work; and positive benefits, time-off programs, and flexibility to help maintain a healthy balance between work and home.

Ardurra is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

Ardurra does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Agency Agreement, Ardurra will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. If a resume or candidate is submitted to any hiring manager without a previously signed agreement, Ardurra reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. These candidates will be considered property of Ardurra. We’re not currently looking to add any more agencies to our list of approved vendors, so please do not contact any of our managers or recruitment team with sales calls or details of your candidates.

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