Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator; Grade OIT-V, DOQ

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I‑V (DOQ)

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) is seeking motivated and safety-focused individuals to join our Operations team as Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators I‑V (DOQ). In this role, you’ll be part of the essential frontline workforce responsible for operating and maintaining our regional water recycling facilities—helping ensure reliable, high‑quality service to the community we serve.

Successful candidates may be assigned to work at any of the Agency’s facilities and/or multiple locations. This position serves the front‑line operation of the various wastewater treatment facilities. Dependent upon possession and grade of wastewater or water certification, employees will receive various levels of on‑the‑job training and guidance from operations staff as required to safely and efficiently meet day‑to‑day compliance. Staff in this position follows prescribed and standardized procedures, under various levels of supervision of a higher‑level Operator on duty.

Work schedule:

4/10, with the ability to work varying shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, on‑call duty and respond to call backs, and may be required to work alone.

• For All Positions:
  Graduation from high school or GED equivalent with additional college‑level coursework in chemistry, biology, and wastewater and/or water treatment technology; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

• Operator III: At least two years of progressively responsible experience in wastewater or water treatment plant operations; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred.
• Operator IV/V: At least four years of progressively responsible experience in skilled, journey‑level wastewater or water treatment plant operation; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred.

• For All Positions: A valid California Class C driver’s license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Agency’s vehicle insurance program.
• California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment and/or Distribution Operator certifications are desirable.
• Annual certification for CPR, First Aid, HAZWOPER, forklift, and confined‑space entry. Annual completion of Self‑Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) fit test per OSHA requirements is required within six months of appointment and during the course of employment. The employee may be required to wear other types of respirators, dust, and particulate or cartridge masks dependent upon the work environment.
• In addition, when assigned to:
  • Operator‑In‑Training: Valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I Certificate or higher must be obtained within 24 months from date of hire to advance to the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I/II class. Failure to obtain a Grade I or higher certificate could result in termination of employment.
  • Operator I: Valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade I Certification is required at hire or promotion.
  • Operator II: Valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade II Certification is required at hire or promotion.
  • Operator III: Valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade III Certification is required at hire or promotion.
  • Operator IV/V: Valid California State Water Resources Control Board Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade IV/V Certification is required at promotion or hire.