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Apprentice System Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The city of Marietta

Water System Operator 2026

Marietta, GA · On-site

$20.75 - $23.67/hr

Must have a high school diploma or GED and minimum experience of at least one year as an Apprentice System Operator or equivalent water and wastewater construction experience, to include skill in the ...

City of Fargo

Collection System Operator

Fargo, ND · On-site

$47K - $78K/yr

The Water Reclamation Apprentice Operator I, II, III, IV is responsible for the quality and ... Performs fiber repairs in the Ultrafiltration system of the Effluent Reuse Facility; Cleans and ...

Washington City

Water System Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$63K/yr

Performs a variety of entry, apprentice level semi-skilled duties related to the construction ... May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a ...

Sacramento County, CA

Water System Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$81K - $98K/yr

Under direction, Water System Operators perform work in connection with the operation, maintenance ... Or: 4. Completion of two-years of a stationary engineer, plumbing, or similar trade apprenticeship ...

Washington City

Water System Operator

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Performs a variety of entry, apprentice level semi-skilled duties related to the construction ... May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a ...

County of Sacramento

Water System Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$81K - $98K/yr

Under direction, Water System Operators perform work in connection with the operation, maintenance ... Or: 4. Completion of two-years of a stationary engineer, plumbing, or similar trade apprenticeship ...

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Apprentice System Operator information

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How much do apprentice system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice system operator in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Apprentice System Operator?

An Apprentice System Operator is an entry-level position in the energy or utility sector, where individuals learn how to monitor, control, and maintain the operation of electrical power systems under the supervision of experienced system operators. Apprentices receive hands-on training and classroom instruction to understand grid operations, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. Their goal is to gain the knowledge and skills needed to ensure the reliable delivery of electricity and, eventually, qualify for a full System Operator role.

How does an Apprentice System Operator typically collaborate with senior operators and other departments during their training period?

As an Apprentice System Operator, you'll work closely with experienced system operators who provide guidance and on-the-job training. Collaboration often involves shadowing senior staff during shift operations, participating in real-time problem solving, and attending cross-departmental meetings to understand system reliability and communication protocols. You'll also interact with maintenance, engineering, and dispatch teams to learn how outages and grid issues are addressed. This hands-on, team-based environment helps you develop the technical and communication skills necessary for advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice System Operator, and why are they important?

To succeed as an Apprentice System Operator, you need a foundational understanding of electrical systems, strong analytical skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training preferred. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and basic computer applications is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of power systems, minimizing downtime and maintaining service continuity.

What is the difference between Apprentice System Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectApprentice System OperatorPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly a high school diploma or equivalentHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, often in control rooms or plant sitesOperational environment, monitoring equipment, controlling power generation processes
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, power generation companies during training phasePower plants, energy companies, industrial facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles and training pathwaysJob responsibilities, qualifications, and career progression

The main difference is that an Apprentice System Operator is in training, gaining skills under supervision, while a Power Plant Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for operating and maintaining power generation equipment. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career as a Power Plant Operator, with similar work environments and industry usage.

More about Apprentice System Operator jobs
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What job categories do people searching Apprentice System Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice System Operator jobs are:
Apprentice System Operator jobs near you

Water System Operator 2026

City of Marietta, GA

Marietta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Rate of Pay: $20.75 - $23.67
Status: Open Until Filled
This is a journey level position in the Distribution or Collection Division within the Water and Wastewater Department and is responsible for the service, repair and maintenance of the wastewater and water systems.  This position reports to an assigned Water and Wastewater Foreperson.
  • Repairs broken water or wastewater mains and related service connections.
  • Replaces, raises or lowers water or wastewater appurtenances as assigned.
  • Relays water and wastewater mains and services and cleans out obstructions from wastewater mains and services with a high-pressure water jetting machine.
  • Installs water and wastewater taps for new services.
  • Installs and services fire hydrants which include performing flow and pressure tests.
  • Performs high pressure water and chemical cleaning of wastewater mains.
  • Inspects and cleans water and wastewater pump stations and tank sites. Installs valves and performs wastewater clean-outs as required.
  • Drives dump truck and trailer (as needed) to deliver and pick up heavy equipment, materials and job debris as needed. Operates all related construction equipment including, backhoe, boom truck, dump truck, hydraulic rod machine, boring machine, and tapping machine as required.  
  • Builds and maintains master meters and concrete settings as required.
  • Cut grass around water and wastewater pump stations and tanks sites as assigned.
  • Ability to work “on call” on a rotating basis as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED and minimum experience of at least one year as an Apprentice System Operator or equivalent water and wastewater construction experience, to include skill in the operation of all related heavy equipment. Must be able to successfully pass a skills competency test in operating heavy equipment including back hoes, dump and winch trucks, tractors, and related power tools such as tamps, concrete saws, tapping machines, and gas detector before the completion of the working test
  • All newly hired employees must have “Class A” Georgia Commercial driver's license or obtain within six months of hire.   Employees promoted to this position from within Water and Wastewater Department must obtain a CDL within the lesser of the remaining amount of time allotted for their previous position to obtain a CDL or six months from date of promotion.
  • Must have satisfactory seven-year driving history to include no DUI’s in the last five years.
  • All newly hired employees must have a Georgia State Board Distribution or Collection certification or obtain this within two years of completion of the scheduled training class.  Employees promoted to this position from within Water and Wastewater Department must have the certification or must obtain certification within the remaining amount of time allotted in their previous position.
  • Must have or obtain a trenching, confined space and shoring certification within work test period.
  • Must have or obtain a Georgia Department of Transportation Flagging certificate within working test period.
  • Knowledge of all safety rules and procedures related to water and wastewater construction, maintenance and repair.
  • Skill in digging ditches with a backhoe around lines belonging to other utilities
  • Knowledge and skills required to install and maintain water and wastewater systems, features and appurtenances.
  • Must be able to work a rotating “on call” schedule as assigned.
Disclaimer
Successful candidates are required to submit to drug screen, physical exam, & background inquiry.
 

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