As a Lead Water Reclamation Operator, you’ll oversee the daily functions of a modern treatment facility and ensure operations meet strict environmental and regulatory standards. You’ll be involved in every stage of the treatment process, helping convert wastewater into high-quality effluent through careful monitoring and informed decision-making. This position places you in a dynamic environment where mechanical, electrical, and process-control systems all demand your attention and skill. Your guidance will help maintain a safe workplace, strengthen team performance, and uphold the high expectations placed on a critical public utility. It’s an ideal role for someone who values precision, responsibility, and the impact of protecting public health and natural resources.

In this leadership position, you’ll take on advanced operational responsibilities while directing operators in plant monitoring, equipment upkeep, and process optimization. You’ll analyze data, identify irregularities, and make timely adjustments that keep the facility running smoothly and in full compliance with regulatory requirements. Collaboration is essential, as you’ll work closely with internal departments, contractors, and regulatory agencies to coordinate activities and ensure accurate reporting. You’ll also contribute to staff development through training, maintain detailed operational records, and support initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and reliability. This role is well-suited for an experienced operator ready to lead, mentor others, and play a key part in the long-term success of a vital community resource.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Education:

• Graduation from high school or G.E.D., equivalent.

Experience:

• Four (4) years of increasingly responsible experience performing the functions of a Water Reclamations Facility Operator.
• Two (2) years of experience in a position equivalent to Operator III at the City of Corona.

Certification(s):

• Possession of a valid California Grade III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate.
• Possession of, or successful acquisition within 12 months of appointment, a valid Grade IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate, to be maintained throughout employment.

License(s):

• A valid Class C California driver's license and ability to maintain insurability under the City's Vehicle Insurance Policy.

Special Requirement(s):

• Ability to work extended hours and/or rotating shifts, standby, including nights, weekends and holidays on an as-needed basis.

To view the complete job description, click here.

THE DEPARTMENT

The Utilities Department is dedicated to providing high-quality water, reclaimed water, sewer, and electric services to the community. With a strong commitment to public health and environmental sustainability, the department ensures reliable infrastructure and innovative solutions for water efficiency. Residents benefit from customer-focused programs, including rebate initiatives and conservation efforts designed to enhance resource management. Whether it's maintaining water quality or powering homes, the department plays a vital role in supporting the city's growth and well-being.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications will be accepted until Monday, May 4, 2026, at 5:00PM. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as the recruitment may close at any time without notice. The selection process will consist of a review and evaluation of all applicants' qualifications. Those applicants deemed to possess the most desirable qualifications will be invited to the next step, which will be an assessment. The following step will be an oral interview. The top scoring candidates from the assessment and oral interview will be placed on an eligibility list from which the department may hire. The eligibility list established from this recruitment may also be used to fill the current and/or additional vacancies throughout the City. The successful candidate will be required to undergo a reference / background check including livescan and pass a pre-employment medical examination (which will include a drug/alcohol screening).

COMMUNITY

A City whose heritage spans more than 125 years, the City of Corona, located in Riverside County, California, encompasses approximately 40 square miles and has a vibrant, culturally diverse population of approximately 170,000 residents. Residents of Corona enjoy a variety of cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities that provide a first-rate quality of life for its residents and visitors. Within an hour's travel time, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy winter activities such as snowboarding and skiing and summer activities including surfing, boating, or simply relaxing on world class beaches. Corona's economy is strong and getting stronger; more than 84,000 people work here. Our retail, commercial, and housing areas are expanding, and office development continues to be strong.

THE ORGANIZATION

The City of Corona is a General Law city operating under a Council-Manager form of government. Policy making and legislative authority is vested in the City Council, consisting of a Mayor and four Council Members. Members of the City Council are elected by District to a four-year term. The Mayor is selected by the Council and serves as the presiding officer for one year. The City is organized into the following departments/organizational units: Community Services, City Manager’s Office, Economic Development, Finance, Fire, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal and Risk Management, Police, Planning & Development, Public Works, and Utilities. Oversight of these departments is divided between the City Manager and an Assistant City Manager. The City's total operating budget for Fiscal Year 2026 is $422.7 million with a General Fund operating budget of $231.3 million. Corona enjoys a workforce of 935 dedicated employees who provide high-quality services to its residents and visitors each day.
To view the essential duties and responsibilities, click here.
To view the qualifications guidelines, click here.
To view the physical/mental demands and work environment, click here.