Wastewater Operator OIT, I, II or III

Job Opportunity: Wastewater Plant Operator (OIT, I, II, or III)

The El Toro Water District (ETWD) is seeking a motivated and qualified individual to join our Water Recycling Plant team. We are recruiting for a single opening, which may be filled at the level of Wastewater Plant Operator-in-Training (OIT), Operator I, Operator II, or Operator III, depending on the selected candidate’s certification and experience. This is an excellent opportunity to begin or advance your career in the water/wastewater industry with a respected public agency committed to safety, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

Work Schedule

This position follows a 9/80 work schedule, consisting of nine-hour shifts from 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with every other Friday off. Operators may be required to work weekends, holidays, and respond to after-hours callouts on a rotating basis.

Responsibilities

• Operate, regulate, and maintain wastewater treatment equipment and processes.
• Work with pumps, screens, blowers, motors, skimmers, air compressors, and flow meters.
• Perform cleaning and maintenance of designated areas while following all safety procedures.
• Conduct preventative maintenance, ensuring motors and equipment are properly lubricated.
• Recommend corrective actions and assist in implementing approved solutions.
• Record and interpret meter and gauge readings, calculate flows, and maintain daily operational logs.
• Calculate, mix, and apply chemical reagents in proper amounts.
• Run laboratory tests to monitor treatment quality and compliance.
• Assist in troubleshooting process or equipment issues.
• Operator III: Train and direct lower-level operators and provide technical guidance.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Education

The position may be filled at one of the following levels, depending on the successful candidate’s qualifications:

Wastewater Plant Operator-in-Training (OIT) – $31.84 – $43.15 / hour

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must complete and submit an application for a Wastewater Operator-in-Training Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) within one (1) month of job placement.
• Desire to pursue a career in wastewater treatment operations.
• Must possess and maintain a valid California Class C Driver’s License.

Wastewater Plant Operator I – $34.67 – $47.15 / Hour

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic knowledge of hand tools and mechanical equipment.
• One year of full-time employment in actual operation of a Water Recycling Plant.
• Must possess a valid Grade I Water Recycling Plant Operator’s Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.
• Must possess and maintain a valid California Class C Driver’s License.

Wastewater Plant Operator II – $40.19 – $54.68/ hour

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Two years experience at the Operator I level in a treatment plant.
• Must possess a valid Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator’s Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.
• Must possess and maintain a valid California Class C Driver’s License.

Wastewater Plant Operator III – $46.66 – $63.45 / hour

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Two years experience at the Operator II level in a treatment plant.
• Must possess a valid Grade III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator’s Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.
• Must possess and maintain a valid California Class C Driver’s License.

Required Skills and Abilities

Understand and carry out written instructions independently; communicate effectively orally and in writing; use a computer and applicable software; respond to emergencies during off hours; work overtime, weekends and holidays as needed; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to operate equipment safely, lift up to 60 pounds, and perform physical tasks such as bending, climbing, kneeling, and working in confined spaces or at heights. Work is primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions with exposure to dust, noise, and hazardous substances. Good vision, hearing, and hand-eye coordination are required.

Compensation & Benefits

The District offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits (health, dental, vision, retirement, life insurance, paid leave, and more), plus training and advancement opportunities, all in a safe, supportive, and team focused workplace.

To Apply

An El Toro Water District application form must be fully completed. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of District application but may be attached. Applications may be obtained from the ETWD website at www.etwd.com or by applying in person at the District’s Main Office at 24251 Los Alisos Blvd., Lake Forest, California, 92630, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Completed applications may be faxed to: (888) 498-9550 or email to: jcimorell@etwd.com.

El Toro Water District is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.