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Apprentice Operator Jobs in West Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Mister Sparky

Apprentice Electrician

WV · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Vision insurance ⚡ Apprentice Electrician - Launch Your Electrical Career with Mister Sparky! ⚡ ... Each franchise location is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will ...

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All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in West Virginia

Apprentice Operator information

See West Virginia salary details

$10

$15

$22

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in West Virginia is $15.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Apprentice Operator vs Operator?

AspectApprentice OperatorOperator
Required CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications, experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised training settingFull operational environment
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level rolesFull-time operational roles in manufacturing, utilities

The main difference between an Apprentice Operator and an Operator is experience and certification level. Apprentice Operators are in training, gaining skills under supervision, while Operators have completed training and are fully responsible for operations. Apprentices focus on learning, whereas Operators handle daily operational tasks independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes entry-level certifications such as OSHA training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in this hands-on environment. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient, and accurate operation of machinery, which is critical to maintaining production standards and workplace safety.

What can I expect during my first few months as an apprentice operator?

During your initial months as an Apprentice Operator, you'll primarily focus on learning operational procedures, safety protocols, and equipment handling under the guidance of experienced operators. You'll rotate through different stations, participate in hands-on training, and gradually take on more responsibility as you demonstrate competence. Close supervision and feedback are typical, as safety and accuracy are paramount in this role. Expect to work in a team-oriented environment where collaboration and clear communication are essential for smooth operations and troubleshooting.

What is an apprentice operator?

Apprentice Operators are entry-level workers who are learning to operate machinery or equipment under the supervision of experienced operators. They typically participate in a structured training program that combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. The goal is to develop the technical skills and knowledge needed to perform the operator role independently. Apprentice Operators are common in industries such as manufacturing, utilities, and construction, where hands-on training is essential. Their responsibilities may include monitoring equipment, assisting with maintenance, and following safety procedures.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in West Virginia? The most popular types of Operator jobs in West Virginia are:
Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in West Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,477 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Elkins Wastewater Apprenticeship Program Application

City of Elkins

Elkins, WV • On-site

$12/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

The Elkins Wastewater Apprenticeship program provides hands-on, on-the-job training to become a qualified wastewater treatment plant operator, focusing on tasks like monitoring equipment, collecting samples, adjusting chemical treatments, maintaining machinery, and recording operational data. The program combines supervised practical experience with formal instruction to develop the necessary technical skills and knowledge for a career in a complex, vital, and physically demanding field, leading to state certifications and employment opportunities upon completion.

The Elkins Wastewater Apprenticeship program is open to eligible candidates with a minimum age of 16 and older (apprentices must be 18 upon completion of the program). The program will incorporate a 26-month on-site paid work program for apprenticeships to receive 2028HRS of experience to receive the WV Class I Wastewater Certification. During the 26-month program hours are set at approximately 18HRS/Week.

Such activities that apprentices will be involved in are as follows but not limited to: wastewater treatment practices and activities and workings; field work related to line installation (plumbing) and lift station maintenance; combined sewer data retrieval and application; wastewater laboratory practices and applications; global identification system (GIS) application and data retrieval; engineering specification assessments and contracting project reviews; function of municipal government actions; land application of biosolids from wastewater activities; regulatory reviews and inspections; and general maintenance activities

Key Aspects of the Wastewater Apprenticeship Program:

  • On-the-Job Training: Apprentices learn by doing, working alongside experienced operators to perform routine tasks and handle increasingly complex duties.
  • Supervised Work: All activities are performed under the guidance of experienced personnel, ensuring proper techniques and safety protocols are followed.
  • Formal Instruction: the program includes formal coursework to teach foundational skills and prepare apprentices for entry-level certifications.
  • Skill Development: Apprentices gain proficiency in operating and maintaining plant equipment, monitoring process variables, and understanding the chemistry and biology of wastewater treatment.

Typical Apprenticeship Tasks and Responsibilities

  • Equipment Operation: Operating valves, pumps, and other machinery to process and clarify wastewater.
  • Sample Collection & Testing: Collecting water and sewage samples for testing, including basic physical, chemical, and microbiological tests.
  • Chemical Treatment: Adding and monitoring chemicals for disinfection, deodorization, and treatment as directed.
  • Monitoring & Data Recording: Reading gauges, recording meter readings, and logging operational data.
  • Maintenance: Performing routine maintenance and repairs on plant equipment and facilities.
  • Safety Protocols: Learning and applying industrial safety practices and how to use personal protective equipment.

Career Path and Benefits

  • Career Advancement: Apprenticeships provide a pathway to becoming a fully qualified operator with opportunities for advancement in the wastewater/environmental science industry.
  • Certifications and Licenses: Successful completion of the program leads to state certifications and licenses, which are essential for career progression.
  • Skill Specialization: Programs may offer elective courses to align with an apprentice's specific learning needs or the requirements of their utility.
  • Stable Career: A career as a wastewater operator offers job security, as it's a vital service essential to public health and the environment.

The total cost of the Elkins Wastewater Apprenticeship program is $60,000. $60,000 (100%) is funded through a U.S. Department of Labor –Employment and Training Administration grant.

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