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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Assists with the maintenance of plant equipment and facilities * Performs water level measurements ...

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Assists with the maintenance of plant equipment and facilities * Performs water level measurements ...

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Assists with the maintenance of plant equipment and facilities * Performs water level measurements ...

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All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA

Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$31.3K

$59.8K

$97.5K

How much do water plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in Riverside, CA is $59,835.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $68,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Plant Operator Trainees during their initial training period?

Water Plant Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to rotating shifts, learning complex technical procedures, and understanding strict safety and regulatory requirements. They must quickly become familiar with the operation of specialized equipment and monitoring systems, as well as develop problem-solving skills to address equipment malfunctions or water quality issues. Teamwork is essential, as trainees frequently collaborate with experienced operators and maintenance staff to ensure smooth plant operations and compliance with environmental standards.

How hard is it to become a water plant operator trainee?

Becoming a water plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training and passing relevant certification exams. The process involves learning about water treatment processes, safety protocols, and equipment operation, which can take several months to a year depending on the program and employer requirements.

What do I need to become a water operator?

To become a water plant operator trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require relevant coursework or experience in water treatment or related fields. Certification or licensing, such as a state-issued water operator license, is often required or preferred, and on-the-job training is common for new trainees.

Is a water treatment plant operator a hard job?

A water treatment plant operator trainee job involves monitoring and maintaining water treatment processes, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. The role can be physically demanding and often requires certification and ongoing training, but it is manageable with proper preparation and training.

What are Water Plant Operator Trainees?

Water Plant Operator Trainees are entry-level professionals who learn to operate and maintain water treatment facilities. They assist experienced operators in monitoring equipment, testing water quality, and ensuring that treated water meets safety standards. Trainees typically work under supervision while they gain the knowledge and skills required to become certified water plant operators. Their responsibilities may include collecting samples, recording data, and performing basic maintenance tasks. Training often combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction, preparing them for state certification exams.

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

AspectWater Plant Operator TraineeWater Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma; some certifications may be preferredRequires relevant certifications or licenses, such as a state water operator license
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, often in a water treatment plantFull responsibility for water treatment operations, maintenance, and safety
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning operational procedures, assisting with maintenance, gaining experienceOperating equipment, monitoring systems, ensuring water quality standards

The Water Plant Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience under supervision, while the Water Plant Operator is a fully qualified role responsible for managing water treatment processes independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Plant Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Water Plant Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and the pursuit of relevant operator certification is typical for this role. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for success. These competencies ensure safe, efficient water treatment operations and compliance with regulatory standards.

What is the role of an operator trainee?

A Water Plant Operator Trainee is responsible for learning and assisting with the operation and maintenance of water treatment and distribution systems. They monitor equipment, follow safety procedures, and may need to obtain certifications such as a water operator license as they gain experience. The role involves working under supervision to ensure water quality and system efficiency.
What are popular job titles related to Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA? For Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings:
Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Water Filtration Plant Operator

Water Filtration Plant Operator

City of Crossville

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$40K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

WATER FILTRATION PLANT OPERATOR

CITY OF CROSSVILLE

Two (2) shift positions available:

  • MONDAY,TUESDAY,WEDNESDAY: 3:00PM TO 11:00PM; THURSDAY,FRIDAY: 2:00PM TO 11:00PM
  • THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY: 2:00PM TO 4:00AM

Starting annual salary for non-certified personnel is $40,684.80/$19.56 per hour, plus two (2) hours overtime each week. Employees are eligible for 5% salary increase at the conclusion of a satisfactory six (6) month probationary period. Additional salary increases for Grade III or IV certifications.

The job of a Water Filtration Plant Operator is a full-time position that includes a complete benefit package. Benefits include health, vision, dental, life insurance, retirement, paid holidays and paid personal leave.

The City offers TCRS (Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System) Hybrid plan as the retirement benefit.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB
  • Monitors the plant computer for water flow, tank levels, filter and finished turbidities, and finished chlorine level, etc.
  • Monitors and performs a variety of lab tests to ensure that the chemical dosages are at the proper levels to treat, disinfect, deodorize, and clarify the water insuring safety precautions are followed
  • Refills chemical day tanks insuring that all safety precautions are followed
  • Conducts bacteriological and chemical tests required by state and federal regulations and records results
  • Collects water samples for testing inside the water plant and throughout the distribution system
  • Performs maintenance and repairs of various lines, pumps and motors
  • Cleans settling basins
  • Cleans and maintains facilities and operating areas such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, collecting garbage, spraying and weed eating weeds, picking up debris, painting, etc.
MINIMUM EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Tennessee Grade III or IV Water Treatment Certification highly preferred
  • Experience with municipal water systems preferred
  • Must be able to pass Tennessee Grade III Water Treatment Plant Operator Certification within 3 years of date of hire
  • Possession of a valid Tennessee drivers' license
  • Must be examined by a city designated physician to make a determination if applicant will be able to perform all essential duties required of this position

Please read full job description for a more detailed list of essential requirements.