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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Operator Trainee

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a reliable and motivated Operator Trainee to assist in the setup and ... Water-based flexographic ink * pH adjuster * Antifoam * Myer Ameri-clear Qualifications ...

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CNC OPERATOR (TRAINEE)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

As a CNC Operator (Trainee), you'll support machining and post-processing operations while learning ... Comfortable working around shop utilities (air, water, inert gases) --- Materials You'll Work With

Veolia Environnement SA

Wastewater Operator

Crockett, CA · On-site

$37 - $43/hr

Perform routine laboratory testing of water samples to ensure compliance with discharge permits ... Train and mentor junior staff or trainees as required. Work Environment: * Work is performed in ...

Veolia

Wastewater Operator

Crockett, CA

Perform routine laboratory testing of water samples to ensure compliance with discharge permits ... Train and mentor junior staff or trainees as required. Work Environment: * Work is performed in ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Trainee JobsWater Operator Trainee Jobs in California

Water Operator Trainee information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do water operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operator trainee in California is $42,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water operator trainee?

Water Operator Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities. They work under the supervision of certified water operators to learn how to monitor, test, and ensure the quality and safety of public water supplies. Their responsibilities often include collecting water samples, recording data, performing basic laboratory tests, and learning about regulatory compliance. This role is designed to provide hands-on experience and training required to become a licensed water operator.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water operator trainee?

To thrive as a Water Operator Trainee, you need basic math, science knowledge, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with water treatment equipment, monitoring systems, and the pursuit of a state-issued water operator certification are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help you excel in monitoring and maintaining water quality standards. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of water facilities and compliance with regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by water operator trainees during their initial training period?

Water Operator Trainees often face challenges such as adapting to the technical complexity of water treatment systems, learning to accurately monitor and adjust equipment, and understanding strict safety and regulatory requirements. Trainees must quickly become familiar with both manual and automated processes, as well as handle emergency situations like equipment malfunctions or water quality concerns. Support from experienced operators and ongoing hands-on training are key to overcoming these hurdles and building competence in the role.

What is the difference between Water Operator Trainee vs Water Operator?

AspectWater Operator TraineeWater Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and may need a state-specific water treatment or distribution certificationRequires a valid water treatment or distribution certification, often obtained after training
Work EnvironmentSupervised, entry-level role in water treatment plants or distribution systemsFull responsibilities in operating, maintaining, and monitoring water systems
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with daily operations, learning procedures, and gaining experiencePerforming routine maintenance, monitoring equipment, and ensuring water quality

The main difference between a Water Operator Trainee and a Water Operator is experience and certification level. Trainees are in learning roles, often requiring supervision, while Water Operators have completed necessary certifications and handle full operational duties independently.

Are water operator trainees in high demand?

Water operator trainees are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for water treatment and distribution, especially as many facilities seek to meet regulatory standards. The role often requires certifications and technical skills, and employment opportunities are generally stable in the water utility industry.

Is being a water operator trainee worth it?

A water operator trainee position provides hands-on experience in water treatment and distribution, often serving as a stepping stone to certification and full licensing. It offers practical skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and job stability, making it a valuable entry-level role in the water industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Operator Trainee jobs in California?

For Water Operator Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Operator Trainee jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operator Trainee jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Water Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Water Operator Trainee job openings:

Water Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Water Purification Plant Operator Trainee/II/III

Bakersfield, CA

Kern County Water Agency
Public Administration • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Kern County Water Agencyexternal

$73K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Instructions for Application Provide a COMPLETE education history. Include ALL levels of education, including high school, college, graduate school and business, trade and technical school. Provide a COMPLETE employment history, beginning with current or most recent employment.

Include ALL employers, assignments, or volunteer activities, including military employment, during at least the last 10 years. Explain any gaps in employment. Provide at least two professional references.

All applicable transcripts, licenses and/or certificates must be included with your application. A resume may be included. However, a resume will NOT be accepted in lieu of a completed job application.

DO NOT include any letters of reference. Note: Only those applicants who complete the job application in its entirety and meet the Qualifications and Education Requirements will be considered. Note: Additional information for each position, including job duties and requirements, can be found by clicking "Menu" on the upper left hand corner and selecting "Job Descriptions".

FUNDAMENTAL OBJECTIVE Operate, monitor and maintain the Kern County Water Agency (Agency) conventional water purification plant and distribution system in conformance with the regulations set forth by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), Division of Drinking Water (DDW) and United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). SALARY RANGE Water Purification Plant Operator Trainee: $73,278 - $88,962/year Water Purification Plant Operator I: $84,261 - $102,336/year Water Purification Plant Operator III: $92,518 - $112,362/year JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities include operating, monitoring and maintaining the Kern County Water Agency's conventional water purification plant and distribution system in conformance with the regulations set forth by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), Division of Drinking Water (DDW) and United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS Education High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate.

Licenses/Certifications/Registrations Water Purification Plant Operator Trainee Possession of a valid California Class C or higher driver license. Successful completion of SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade II (T2) exam and SWRCB Water Distribution Grade II (D2) exam within 18 months of hire; possession of a valid SWRCB T2 certification and a valid SWRCB D2 certification within 20 months of hire. Successful completion of SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade III (T3) exam and SWRCB Water Distribution Operator Grade III (D3) within 36 months of hire.

Possession of a valid respirator certification from the Agency's designated occupational physician within 12 months of hire. Water Purification Plant Operator II Possession of a valid California Class C or higher driver license. Possession of a valid SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade II (T2) certification and a valid SWRCB Water Distribution Grade II (D2) certification.

Successful completion of SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade III (T3) exam and SWRCB Water Distribution Operator Grade III (D3) exam within 18 months of hire; possession of a valid SWRCB T3 and a valid SWRCB D3 certification within 38 months of hire. Possession of a valid respirator certification from the Agency's designated occupational physician within 12 months of hire. Water Purification Plant Operator III Possession of a valid California Class C or higher driver license.

Possession of a valid SWRCB Water Treatment Plant Operator Grade III (T3) certification and a valid SWRCB Water Distribution Grade III (D3) certification. Possession of a valid respirator certification from the Agency's designated occupational physician within 12 months of hire. Experience Water Purification Plant Operator Trainee None.

Water Purification Plant Operator II One (1) year of experience working at a water purification facility. Water Purification Plant Operator III Two (2) years operating a conventional water purification plant and distribution system. PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS Note: Values based on normally scheduled work day Activity Essential Marginal N/A Seldom Occasionally Frequently Carry/Lift Up to 30 lbs.

x x Carry/Lift Up to 60 lbs. x x Carry/Lift Up to 100 lbs. x x Climb x x Crawl/Kneel x x Drive x x Grasp/Squeeze/Pinch x x Hear x x Push/Pull/Drag x x Push Keys x x See x x Sit x x Speak x x Squat/Stoop x x Stand x x Swim x Twist/Turn x x Walk x x Environmental Demands Essential Marginal N/A Seldom Occasionally Frequently Chemical Hazards x x Electrical Hazards x x Explosive Hazards x x Mechanical Hazards x x Radiation Hazards x Extreme Cold/Extreme Heat x x Extreme Noise x x Bodies of Water/Canals x x Fumes/Dust x x Insects x x 1 With Assistance Need Help.

For application or login problems, please click "Menu" on the upper left hand corner and select "Help & Support" or call the NeoGov/Government Jobs customer service hotline: (855) 524-5627. You will also find instructions on checking the status of your application on this site. If you have recruitment questions, please email Human Resources at jobs@kcwa.com.

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