College/Vet Paid Internship | VVWRA - Wastewater Operator - 100 hours | Spring 2027

Tomorrow's Talent•Desert, TX

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Victor Valley Wastewater Reclamation Authority (VVWRA) offers a paid, 100-hour Water & Wastewater Operator internship in Victorville, California, from February 16 through April 18, 2027, two days per week. The internship is intended for community college students, CTE participants, and veterans interested in utility operations, environmental compliance, and treatment systems. Interns gain hands-on experience supporting wastewater treatment operations under the supervision of certified operators. College credit will be available through Victor Valley College if selected. The internship introduces participants to wastewater treatment from influent to effluent and develops practical skills in sampling, inspection, system operation, safety, environmental compliance, and reporting. Interns also gain exposure to SCADA systems, laboratory testing, and preventative maintenance, and build readiness for an in-training operator role or further pursuit of certifications such as California State Water Resources Control Board Grade I Wastewater Operator. The work takes place in field and plant settings, including laboratories, outdoor facilities, and operational areas. Duties are performed under close supervision with a strong emphasis on safety and professional conduct. Tasks may involve walking, lifting light equipment, and working in varying weather conditions.

Requirements

Strong attention to safety procedures and willingness to learn.
Comfort working outdoors and in industrial environments.
Enrollment in or completion of a community college or CTE program related to water technology, environmental technology, industrial maintenance, process technology, public works, utilities, or environmental science; alternatively, veteran experience in mechanical, utilities, or technical operations.

Nice To Haves

Valid driver's license preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist with collecting field samples for water and sludge analysis.
Prepare, label, and organize sampling equipment and tools.
Enter data into logs or software systems and learn how test results affect plant operations.
Participate in laboratory activities and learn basic water quality parameters.
Record operational data, including flow readings, chemical usage, and inspection notes.
Help compile daily or weekly reports and charts used by operators to track performance.
Work alongside operators on basic system checks and routine maintenance.
Prepare and maintain checklists, assist with lamp swaps, and clean equipment areas.
Observe pump systems, clarifiers, and aeration basins to understand their roles in treatment.
Study process diagrams and shadow experienced operators during rounds to connect observations with real-time control systems.
Learn about pumps, valves, and flow systems that support plant operations.
Help collect sludge blanket depths, totalizer readings, and other operational metrics.
Learn how field measurements inform reporting and compliance and how operational data supports treatment and sustainability goals.