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

Employer: Victor Valley Wastewater Reclamation Authority

Duration: 100 hours

Dates: February 16-April 18, 2027, 2 days per week

Location: Victorville, CA
Compensation: Paid Internship

College Credit: If selected, college credit will be available through Victor Valley College.

The Victor Valley Wastewater Reclamation Authority (VVWRA) is a regional public utility that treats and reclaims wastewater for the Victor Valley community. VVWRA provides hands-on learning opportunities for students interested in environmental services, water technology, and technical careers that help protect local water resources and support sustainable growth.

Program Overview

The Water & Wastewater Operator Internship provides an opportunity for community college students, CTE participants, and veterans to gain hands-on experience in utility operations, environmental compliance, and treatment systems.

Interns will work under the supervision of certified operators to support sampling, monitoring, and daily plant operations. This internship builds applied knowledge for those pursuing certifications such as California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Grade I Wastewater Operator.

Learning Objectives

• Develop practical skills in sampling, inspection, and system operation.

• Introduction to wastewater treatment process from influent to effluent.

• Strengthen awareness of environmental compliance, safety, and reporting standards.

• Gain exposure to SCADA systems, laboratory testing, and preventative maintenance.

• Build professional readiness for an in-training operator role.
  

Key Responsibilities

Sampling and Testing Support

• 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 lab activities and understand basic water quality parameters.
  

Operations Data & Reporting

• Record operational data such as flow readings, chemical usage, and inspection notes.

• Help compile daily or weekly reports and charts used by operators for performance tracking.

• Learn how data supports safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
  

Preventative Maintenance & Operations Support

• Work alongside operators to perform 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 role in treatment.
  

Process Flow Observation

• Study process diagrams to understand treatment stages from influent to effluent.

• Shadow experienced operators during rounds to connect observations to real-time control systems.

• Learn about pumps, valves, and flow systems that support daily plant operations.
  

Performance Metrics & Systems Thinking

• Help collect sludge blanket depths, totalizer readings, and other operational metrics.

• Understand how field measurements impact reporting and compliance.

• Observe how small data points support large-scale treatment and sustainability goals.
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Enrollment in or completion of a community college or CTE program related to:

  • Water Technology or Environmental Technology

  • Industrial Maintenance or Process Technology

  • Public Works, Utilities, or Environmental Science

• OR a veteran with experience in mechanical, utilities, or technical operations.

• Comfortable working outdoors and in industrial environments.

• Strong attention to safety procedures and willingness to learn.

• Valid driver’s license preferred.
  

Work Environment

Interns will gain experience in both field and plant settings — including laboratories, outdoor facilities, and operational areas. Tasks may involve walking, lifting light equipment, and working in varying weather conditions. All duties are performed under close supervision with a strong emphasis on safety and professional conduct.