r/Wastewater

I’ve been in the field since March 2025 and am licensed.

My very experienced coworker told me I’m not a good operator. I didn’t want to ask for an explanation because I didn’t want to appear bothered by his opinion.

But I am bothered. I want to be a good operator. I like knowing I’m doing a job well.

The job is easy. Just show up, collect samples, run lab, do plant checks. Easy peasy.

My superintendent at the yearly review in December gave me a 4/5 review. I have asked the operations manager how I’m doing and he says I’m great and have a great reputation.

So what qualities make a good operator in your eyes? What do you expect out of an employee who has been in the field for a year?

Currently working at a small municipality in the northeast as a Treatment Operator and obtained a Treatment Grade 4 license, been here for over a year and a new opportunity presented itself to go into collections , any collection operators here that can tell me how they like their job compared to being Inside the plant? TIA.

Hey everyone,

I’m in Southern California and really interested in getting into water distribution, specifically looking at Mesa Water District in Costa Mesa.

I’m currently planning to get my D1 (and possibly T1), but I wanted to hear directly from anyone who works at Mesa Water or a similar district.

A little about me:

Background in logistics/warehouse operations

Experience with equipment, safety, and fast-paced work environments

No direct water experience yet

I’m serious about making this a long-term career and want to approach it the right way.

A few things I’d really appreciate insight on:

Is getting a D1 enough to realistically get into Mesa Water as an Operator I?

What separates candidates that actually get hired vs the ones that don’t?

Do they prefer people with hands-on construction/field experience?

Would you recommend applying ASAP after getting D1 or waiting until I have more certs?

Anything specific about Mesa Water’s hiring process or culture I should know?

I’ve been doing my research, but I know real-world insight from people in the field is way more valuable.

Appreciate any advice—especially from anyone in Orange County or Mesa Water.

Thanks

Any advice for PA collections exam?