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Water Treatment Operator Trainee Jobs in Riverside, CA

We are looking for a full-time Water Treatment System Operator , who will work directly on treatment plants designed to treat contaminated groundwater and vapor. This role will be based at our client ...

Water Distribution Operator

Redlands, CA · On-site

$58K - $71K/yr

Possession and maintenance of California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade T1 Certificate is desirable. Special Requirements: Essential functions and duties require ...

Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze water quality, facility design, and operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide recommendations for treatment and process improvements.

Ardurra is seeking a Water Treatment Lead to join our team ideally in Irvine, CA., but could be ... Our collaborative work environment and inclusive operating philosophy allow us to maintain a ...

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and treatment equipment such as: * Pumping systems

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Operates and monitors a variety of water supply and treatment equipment such as: * Pumping systems

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Water Treatment Operator Trainee information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$28

$51

How much do water treatment operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for water treatment operator trainee in Riverside, CA is $28.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $34.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Water Treatment Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically at least a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, SCADA systems, and safety protocols is common, and obtaining state operator-in-training certification may be required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help trainees excel in monitoring and maintaining treatment systems. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient water treatment operations that protect public health.

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

AspectWater Treatment Operator TraineeWater Treatment Operator
CertificationsOften requires a high school diploma; some certifications may be preferred or required during trainingRequires relevant certifications such as state licensing or operator certification
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning on the jobFull-time, operational environment, responsible for daily water treatment tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning procedures, assisting with operations, gaining experienceMonitoring equipment, adjusting processes, ensuring water quality

In summary, a Water Treatment Operator Trainee is in the learning phase, gaining necessary skills and certifications, while a Water Treatment Operator is fully responsible for managing water treatment processes independently.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Treatment Operator Trainees during the initial training period?

As a Water Treatment Operator Trainee, one of the main challenges is quickly learning to operate complex equipment and monitoring systems while adhering to strict safety and regulatory standards. Trainees often need to develop a strong attention to detail and the ability to respond calmly to unexpected issues, such as equipment malfunctions or changes in water quality. Additionally, adjusting to shift work and collaborating effectively with experienced operators and maintenance staff can require good communication skills and adaptability. Support and mentorship from senior team members are common, helping trainees build confidence and technical expertise over time.

What are Water Treatment Operator Trainees?

Water Treatment Operator Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities. They work under the supervision of experienced operators to learn how to monitor water quality, operate equipment, and ensure that water meets safety and regulatory standards. Their duties often include conducting tests, recording data, and performing basic maintenance tasks. Over time, trainees gain the skills and certifications needed to become fully qualified water treatment operators.
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Treatment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Water Treatment Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA? For Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Water Treatment Operator Trainee job openings:
Water Treatment Operator III/IV/V

Water Treatment Operator III/IV/V

City of Redlands

Redlands, CA

$62K - $99K/yr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description Under direction to perform a variety of skilled technical duties in the operation and maintenance of the City's water treatment plants, water production equipment, and reservoirs. Distinguishing Characteristics: These are the journey levels in the class series. Positions at these levels perform the full range of duties as assigned, working independently and exercising judgment and initiative.

Positions at these levels receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise, and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. Positions in this class series are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from lower levels by meeting the minimum requirements, successful performance, budget availability, and management recommendation. When filled from the outside, the employee is required to have prior related experience which allows the employee to meet the qualification standards for the position level.

Examples of Duties Examples of duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Controls water treatment plant facilities including potable and non-potable systems in accordance with all established regulations, standards, and procedures; Operates water treatment plant equipment to maintain adequate water flow and proper plant functions including monitoring, sampling, and testing to prevent substandard water from entering system; Monitors chemical levels in water; calculates chemical dosages and calibrates chemical feeder rates to ensure proper dosage; Collects samples for chemical analysis to determine the chemical composition of water, to control quality, and to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations; Operates computerized and/or manual pumps, motors, and other equipment to adjust for volume, change treatment process, or make other necessary changes; Monitors gauges, meters, and charts to ensure proper plant operations; maintains logs/records of plant operations, meter/gauge readings, test results, and other data; Performs general cleaning/maintenance tasks necessary to keep plant facilities, equipment, and tools in operable condition which may include inspecting and calibrating equipment, performing minor repairs, cleaning work areas and reports faulty equipment to management; May assist with the providing direction to and training of new personnel; and Performs related duties and responsibilities as assigned. Qualifications Experience For Water Treatment Operator III: Three years of water utility experience performing maintenance and routine operation duties in a water treatment plant. For Water Treatment Operator IV: Four years of water utility experience performing maintenance and routine operation duties in a water treatment plant.

For Water Treatment Operator V: Five years of water utility experience performing maintenance and routine operation duties in a water treatment plant. Education For Water Treatment Operator III/IV/V: Equivalent to a high school diploma. Additional college-level course work in water treatment and distribution systems, chemistry, biology, or a related field is desirable.

Licenses and Certificates For Water Treatment Operator III: Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California Driver's License at the time of appointment. Possession of a Grade T3 Water Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. Possession of a Grade D3 Water Distribution Operator Certificate.

For Water Treatment Operator IV: Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California Driver's License at the time of appointment. Possession of a Grade T4 Water Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. Possession of a Grade D3 Water Distribution Operator Certificate.

For Water Treatment Operator V: Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California Driver's License at the time of appointment. Possession of a Grade T5 Water Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. Possession of a Grade D4 Water Distribution Operator Certificate.

Special Requirements: Essential functions and duties require the following physical abilities and work environment: Regularly sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, stoop, squat, crawl, twist, climb, and lift up to 50 lbs.; Regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate and reach with hands and arms; Regularly exposed to heat, noise, outdoors, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, explosive materials, mechanical hazards, and electrical hazards, toxic substances, foul odors, wastewater, sludge, effluents, bacteria, viruses, and traffic hazards; Regularly travel to different sites and locations; Must be able to communicate with other and to exchange information accurately; Must be available for standby/on call duty. 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 submittedonline with your application. Applicants are responsible for attaching proof of education, certification, and/or license to each position for which they apply.

The following documents are required for this position: 1. If applicable, California State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Operator Grade D3 Certificate or higher. 2.

If applicable, California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade T3 Certificate or higher. 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.

Failure to provide all required documents will 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