Water Operator Intern - Fall 2026

Industry

Water

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

At Jacobs, we challenge what’s currently accepted, so we can shape innovative and lasting solutions for tomorrow. Through the delivery of our operations and maintenance services, you’ll make it simpler and more seamless for our municipal clients to operate safely and efficiently, empowering communities to focus on what matters most to them – people. 

As a Water Operator Intern, you’ll join a collaborative team ensuring that our clients can deliver their services – uninterrupted.  

Based in San Marcos, CA, you’ll have the opportunity to learn a variety of tasks in the operation and maintenance of a water treatment plant including maintenance of equipment and quality control testing. You’ll be able to help contribute to the success of our program with efficient preventive maintenance and effective solutions to challenges that may arise in municipal facilities. You’ll learn how to operate treatment facilities to control flow and processing of water/wastewater, sludge, and effluent, observe variations in operating conditions, and interpret meter and gauge readings. You’ll also gain experience in collecting samples, maintaining shift logs and performing other duties as required. Most importantly, you’ll take action to ensure the safety, health and well-being of you and your team.

Here's what you'll need

• Basic understanding of computer software including Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to enter data into a maintenance management system
• Must be 18 years of age or currently enrolled undergraduate or technical college student

Ideally, you’ll also have:

• Self-driven time management and organizational skills
• Ability to work outside for extended periods of time
• Safe work practices
• Authorization to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship, now or in the future

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

Safety is a core value at Jacobs. We are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all employees. This position will spend a substantial amount of time performing safety sensitive labor or services. The physical and environmental demands required to perform the essential duties of this position include standing, walking, sitting, coordination, balance and agility demands, which may include the ability to stoop, kneel, squat, grasp, reach, perform repetitive hand movements. The work areas may be indoor, outdoor, have loud noise, active machinery, high pressure fluid systems, electrical equipment, confined spaces, heights and depths, fumes, air borne particles, noxious gases, and chemicals. The use of appropriate safety equipment will be mandatory in these areas to prevent hazardous contact.  

Posted Salary Range: Minimum

34,800.00

Posted Salary Range: Upper

46,000.00

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Employees have access to a 401(k) plan, as well as legally mandated benefits.

The base salary range for this position is $34,800.00 to $46,000.00; though will be paid hourly based on hours worked. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Job posted on August 10, 2026. This position will be open for at least 3 days.

Onsite employees are expected to attend a Jacobs Workplace on a full-time basis, as required by the nature of their role.

Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support .

Locations

City State Country
San Marcos	California	United States
San Diego	California	United States