Water Treatment Operator Trainee / Water Treatment Operator

Position Description

Build a rewarding career providing an essential public service.

Atascadero Mutual Water Company (AMWC) is seeking a dedicated and motivated Water Treatment Operator Trainee or Water Treatment Operator to join our team. Whether you are entering the water industry or bringing prior experience and certifications, this position offers the opportunity to develop your skills and advance your career. As a Water Treatment Operator/Trainee, you will assist with maintaining clean and operational facilities, help ensure compliance with drinking water regulations, and contribute to the delivery of safe, reliable, affordable drinking water to the community.

Why This Role Matters

Water treatment operators play a vital role in protecting public health and ensuring a reliable water supply for the Atascadero community. This position supports the operation of critical infrastructure, including a new water treatment plant scheduled for completion in 2028. The work performed in this role helps ensure regulatory compliance, water quality, and dependable service for more than 30,000 residents. For individuals who take pride in technical work, value teamwork, and enjoy serving their community, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact every day.

Key Responsibilities

Operate and maintain water production, treatment, storage, and distribution facilities.
Monitor water treatment processes and assist in ensuring compliance with drinking water regulations.
Collect water samples and perform routine water quality testing.
Monitor and operate wells, reservoirs, booster stations, pumps, chemical feed systems, and related equipment.
Monitor and utilize SCADA systems to support efficient system operations.
Adjust water production and treatment processes to meet system demands.
Maintain operational records, logs, and regulatory reporting documentation.
Inspect, troubleshoot, and perform routine maintenance on treatment and pumping equipment.
Perform facility and site maintenance, including cleaning, painting, weed control, and grounds upkeep.
Participate in on-call assignments and emergency response activities as required.
Perform duties safely and in accordance with company policies and regulatory requirements.

Water Treatment Operator Trainee

Under the close supervision of experienced operators, trainees learn all aspects of water production, treatment, distribution, water quality monitoring, regulatory compliance, and facility operations. This position provides a pathway toward State certification and advancement within the organization.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.
No water treatment experience required.
Experience involving mechanical systems, pumps, construction, maintenance, or chemical handling is desirable.
Ability to learn water treatment processes, SCADA systems, and regulatory requirements.
Valid California Class C Driver's License and acceptable driving record.

Certification Requirements

Water Treatment Operator Grade T1 and/or Water Distribution Operator Grade D1 certification is desirable but not required.
Must obtain Water Treatment Operator Grade T2 and Water Distribution Operator Grade D2 certifications within 18 months of hire.
Must obtain a Class C Hazardous Materials Endorsement within 6 months of hire.

Water Treatment Operator

Operators perform a variety of operational, maintenance, monitoring, and troubleshooting duties associated with AMWC's water treatment and production facilities. Operators work with a greater degree of independence and are responsible for making operational decisions under routine conditions.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.
One year of experience as a Water Treatment Operator Trainee or equivalent position.
Knowledge of water treatment operations, water quality testing, chemical feed systems, pumping equipment, and SCADA systems.
Ability to operate facilities independently, troubleshoot operational issues, and make sound decisions.
Valid California Class C Driver's License and acceptable driving record.

Certification Requirements

Water Treatment Operator Grade T2 certification.
Water Distribution Operator Grade D3 certification.
Class C Hazardous Materials Endorsement.
Must obtain Water Treatment Operator Grade T3 certification within 6 years of hire or promotion.

Work Schedule & Requirements

Must be available to work assigned shifts, including weekends and holidays when necessary.
Must participate in an on-call rotation and respond to emergencies in accordance with company policies.
Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Must be able to lift up to 75 pounds and perform physically demanding work.

What We Offer

Competitive compensation and benefits.
Career advancement opportunities through certification and skills development.
Hands-on experience operating a complex water system serving more than 30,000 residents.
Opportunity to work with a knowledgeable and collaborative team.
Meaningful work that directly contributes to the health, safety, and quality of life of the Atascadero community.

About Our Community

Located in the heart of California’s Central Coast, just off Highway 101 in San Luis Obispo County, Atascadero offers easy access to some of the Central Coast’s most popular destinations, with Morro Bay beaches, Paso Robles wine country, and the City of San Luis Obispo all roughly twenty minutes away. Beautiful, authentic, and welcoming, Atascadero combines outdoor recreation, local dining, arts, history, and small-town charm in a community enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

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If you're ready to build a rewarding career, develop your technical skills, and make a meaningful difference in the community every day, we encourage you to apply and join the AMWC team.

Water Jobs Tagged: California

Water Treatment Operator/Trainee