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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA

Plant Power Fast Food

Shift Leader - Redlands

Redlands, CA · On-site

$18.55/hr

... water, 93% less land, emit 90% less greenhouse gas emissions, and are 100% more delicious than ... Follow Plant Power operating policies and standards, including providing quality food and beverages ...

BrightView Landscapes

Tree Care Operator

Fontana, CA

$24 - $27/hr

... bobtail/water trucks, on/off road pickup trucks, rental equipment as required. Duties and ... Basic knowledge of plant material * Equipment certification as needed * Able to communicate in ...

BrightView

Tree Care Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

... bobtail/water trucks, on/off road pickup trucks, rental equipment as required. Duties and ... Basic knowledge of plant material * Equipment certification as needed * Able to communicate in ...

Niagara Bottling LLC

Production Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$20.01 - $27.02/hr

... bottled water. Consider applying here, if you want to: * Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic ... Adheres to the highest standards of company and plant safety programs, guidelines, rules, and ...

New

Niagara Bottling, LLC

Production Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$20.01 - $27.02/hr

... bottled water. Consider applying here, if you want to: * Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic ... Adheres to the highest standards of company and plant safety programs, guidelines, rules, and ...

Niagara Bottling LLC

Production Operator

Ontario, CA

$20.01 - $27.02/hr

... bottled water. Consider applying here, if you want to: * Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic ... Adheres to the highest standards of company and plant safety programs, guidelines, rules, and ...

New

Niagara Bottling, LLC

Production Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$20.01 - $27.02/hr

... bottled water. Consider applying here, if you want to: * Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic ... Adheres to the highest standards of company and plant safety programs, guidelines, rules, and ...

New

Niagara Bottling, LLC

Production Operator

Ontario, CA · On-site

$20.01 - $27.02/hr

... bottled water. Consider applying here, if you want to: * Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic ... Adheres to the highest standards of company and plant safety programs, guidelines, rules, and ...

New

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 9, 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 and passing a written exam that tests basic math and technical knowledge. Trainees often learn on the job and may need to obtain relevant certifications or licenses, which can involve additional training and testing. The difficulty varies depending on the individual's background and the specific requirements of the employer or jurisdiction.

Is it hard to become a water plant operator trainee?

Becoming a water plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, basic technical skills, and sometimes passing a written exam. The training involves learning about water treatment processes, safety protocols, and operating equipment, which can take several months to a year depending on the program and employer requirements.

What is a water plant operator trainee?

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?

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 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
Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,835 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Assistant Operations Engineer or Associate Operations Engineer (42.26)

Golden State Water Company

San Dimas, CA • On-site

$84K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Golden State Water Company is one of the largest investor-owned water utilities in the United States. We deliver quality, reliable water to more than 1 million people in over 80 communities throughout California. Golden State Water has been in business for more than 90 years because we put customers first.
We are hiring for one position with two possible levels, depending on candidates education and experience.
POSITION DEFINITION
Under the direction of the Operations Engineer, the Associate Operations Engineer provides technical assistance and support with a primary focus on resolving operational problems and optimizing the efficiency of water system operations. Assists with implementation of the water loss control program, including water audits and related water loss activities. Responsible for the collection, organization, archiving and distribution of engineering and operations records including system maps, production statistics, and fire flow records.
The Associate Operations Engineer requires a higher level of training and work experience. As such, the Associate Operations Engineer is expected to work on increasingly challenging technical assignments, work independently, and require minimal Operations Engineer supervision.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities for all levels of Operations Engineer
• Prepares and/or updates system wide and plant specific operational memos including plant site plans, Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&ID), and schematics
• Receives utility substructure requests from outside agencies, review for conflicts/impacts to GSWC facilities
• Utilizes hydraulic models to assist in analyzing water systems operations
• Oversees the fire hydrant flow testing program, receives completed field test reports, performs hydrant flow calculations, maintains fire hydrant test log, returns test results to customers
• Reviews system additions, modifications, and upgrades within the District, including plan review for New Business and CIP projects
• Oversees and coordinates the annual system pressure surveys for all District systems
• Coordinates and performs annual AWWA Water Loss Audits for all District Systems
• Reviews system GIS maps and related records, provides corrections as needed to the Planning Department
• Assists in the development and implementation of District Water Loss Control Programs
• Provides technical support to District Water Supply and Distribution Superintendents and field operations staff
• Communicates orally and in writing with customers, clients, and the public face-to-face, in group settings
• Provides assistance, as required, to Water Supply, Customer Service, Water Quality, Administration, and others as directed by the Operations Engineer upon request by the General Manager
• Performs other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications for both Assistant or Associate Operations Engineer
• Bachelor of Science degree in Civil, Mechanical, or Environmental Engineering from an accredited college required
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Effective oral and written communication skills
Additional Minimum and Certification Requirements for an Associate Operations Engineer
• A valid Engineer-in-training certification required
• A minimum of two years of work experience in engineering preferably in the areas of water supply and water distribution operations, engineering and construction activities
• Certification as a California Water Audit Validator preferred
• Certification as a California Water Treatment and/or Water Distribution Operator preferred
Technical Skills and Experience for both Assistant or Associate Operations Engineer
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other applicable software
• Proficiency with AutoCAD, GIS, and/or Infowater desirable
• Knowledge of engineering principles related to hydraulics and water system operations
Additional Technical Skills and Experience for an Associate Operations Engineer
• Familiar with CPUC, SWRCB, RWQCB, local fire department(s) and other agency regulations as they pertain to water operations
Qualities of a Successful for both Assistant or Associate Operations Engineer:
• Displays high standards of ethical conduct; exhibits honesty and integrity
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers, professional associates and with the general public
• Ability to learn principles and practices of water operations, planning and management, including use analysis and forecasting
• Works and communicates with internal and external clients, contractors, vendors and customers to meet their needs in a polite, courteous and cooperative manner
• Flexible, thoughtful, accountable and passionate about work
• Motivated to learn, change and grow
• Highly organized
May include but not limited to standing, climbing, walking, lifting, bending, pulling and/or pushing, grasping, reaching, stooping and crouching, sitting, typing, walking, reading, writing, color determination, speaking and listening for extended periods of time.
BENEFITS
Our Company supports our employees with rich benefit programs and resources to help them thrive today and prepare for tomorrow. Benefit options include medical, dental, and vision plans with the Company currently paying 85% of the monthly premium for employees and their eligible dependents. We also offer paid vacation and sick time and twelve Company paid holidays per year. To help our employees plan for the future, we offer both a 401(k) retirement plan as well as a Defined Contribution Profit Sharing retirement plan. Additional benefits include life, AD&D, and LTD insurance as well as health savings account and flexible spending plans.
COMPENSATION INFORMATION
The compensation range provided is in compliance with state specific laws. Multiple factors are used to determine the actual starting rate of pay for all of our positions, including specific skills, years of experience, education, certification(s), and other job related factors.
The responsibilities of this position will involve access to information that may be considered confidential, private and sensitive. Therefore, the individual filling this position will be required to both allow and pass a background check.
NOTE: Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with special needs to perform the essential functions.

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