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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 ...

County of Sacramento

Water System Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$78K - $95K/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 ...

Sacramento County, CA

Water System Operator

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$78K - $95K/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 Jun 21, 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
What cities are hiring for Apprentice System Operator jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice System Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of System Operator jobs? The most popular types of System Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice System Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice System Operator jobs include:
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
Infographic showing various Apprentice System Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 52% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,951 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Apprentice Water System Operator

The city of Marietta

Marietta, GA • On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Rate of Pay: Based on Qualifications
Status: Open Until Filled
This apprentice training position within the Water Department provides hands-on experience in maintaining, repairing, and installing water and wastewater infrastructure. Starting pay will be based on qualifications. Employees receive on-the-job training and may advance through the program by successfully completing required training, certifications, and job requirements. As employees gain experience and progress through the program, they take on more responsibility and perform a wider variety of work. This position works under the supervision of an assigned Foreperson or experienced Operator.
  • Works as a member of a crew in installing water and wastewater taps for new services.
  • Works as a member of a crew in installing and servicing fire hydrants.
  • Works as a member of a crew in repairing broken water mains or wastewater services.
  • Flags traffic around work site as assigned.
  • Works as a member of a crew in replacing and raising or lowering water and wastewater appurtenances.
  • Works as a member of a crew in high-pressure water cleaning of wastewater mains and services.
  • Stocks truck with standard items and materials used on a daily basis. Delivers and picks up materials and equipment as assigned.
  • Performs preventative maintenance on assigned truck and keeps truck clean as needed.
  • Installs and replaces residential meters.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned

Preferred Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Valid Georgia driver's license including a satisfactory seven-year driving history with no DUI's in the last 5 years. Must be able to obtain a Georgia Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) learners permit within 6 months of hire and obtain a Class A CDL one year from date of obtaining permit.
  • Must be able to obtain flagging certification within working test period.
  • Must be able to complete trenching and shoring, and confined space entry certification within two years of employment.
  • Ability to learn and follow standard safety practices associated with heavy construction.
  • Must be able to work a rotating "on call" schedule as assigned.

Highly desired skills:
  • Skill with hand tools including pipe wrenches, hammers, concrete saws and other related tools.
  • Experience in construction, maintenance, or field operations.
  • Experience in plumbing, underground utilities, or pipe installation.
  • Ability to operate powered tools including jack hammer, chain saw, and air hammer.

Disclaimer
Successful candidates are required to submit to drug screen, physical exam, and background inquiry.

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