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Apprentice System Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

... Apprentice Program for the Tri-Town Water Treatment Plant. Assists certified Treatment Plant ... Monitors gauges, meters, SCADA systems and alarms and reports abnormal operating conditions.

$54K - $88K/yr

... Systems Operators on the first day of employment. (Fee is required.) Possession of a valid ... This is a three-year apprenticeship program. Participants are under contract for that period of ...

KY · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Signal operators of construction equipment to facilitate alignment, movement and * adjustment of ... Understanding of Basic Electrical Systems * Common sense understanding to carry out instructions ...

Apprentice Lineworkers will be able to competently and confidently perform in a highly skilled and ... Provide ground support for lineman operating in aerial bucket, on pole, trenches, or underground ...

Serves as Back-up Collection System Operator in Responsible Charge as needed. * Assist with ... Three (3) year apprenticeship for instrumentation and four (4) years of experience or related ...

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Apprentice System Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do apprentice system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice system operator in Kentucky is $17.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $18.99 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.

What job categories do people searching Apprentice System Operator jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice System Operator jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Apprentice System Operator jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Apprentice System Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice System Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,436 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Treatment Plant Operator Apprentice

On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

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LOCATION: TREATMENT PLANT

UNION:U.W.U.A.

DATE AVAILABLE:ASAP

SALARY:W 2T A/B $70,848.18 - $81,662.36

NATURE OF WORK:

Performs entry-level technical and operational work while participating in the Town of Braintree Water Apprentice Program for the Tri-Town Water Treatment Plant. Assists certified Treatment Plant Operators in the operation, monitoring, maintenance and repair of the Town's water treatment facilities and related equipment. The position is intended to provide structured classroom instruction, on-the-job training and progressive responsibility leading to qualification for the Treatment Plant Operator (W-4T) classification.

SUPERVISION:

Works under the direct supervision of the Chief Treatment Plant Operator or designee. Receives detailed instruction and guidance while learning treatment plant operations. Work is reviewed through observation, reports and successful completion of assigned training milestones.

JOB ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed indoors and outdoors under varying weather conditions and around mechanical, electrical and chemical equipment, and confined spaces. Position requires shift work, weekends, holidays and emergency call-back as assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

(The essential functions listed below are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every duty performed.)

  • Assists certified operators in the operation of pumps, filters, chemical feed systems, valves and related treatment equipment.
  • Learns treatment processes, water quality standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Collects water samples and assists with laboratory testing and recordkeeping.
  • Monitors gauges, meters, SCADA systems and alarms and reports abnormal operating conditions.
  • Perform preventive maintenance and housekeeping throughout the treatment plant.
  • Assists in adjusting treatment processes under the direction of certified operators.
  • Maintains accurate operating logs, reports and maintenance records.
  • Responds to emergencies and assists during equipment failures and power outages.
  • Participates in required safety training and follows all safety procedures.
  • Attends required classroom instruction and successfully completes the Town's Apprentice Program.
  • Performs related work as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Ability to learn water treatment processes and equipment.
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand and power tools.
  • Ability to understand technical manuals and operating procedures.
  • Ability to understand basic hydraulics.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare reports.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and work as part of a team.
  • Ability to perform strenuous physical work and work in confined spaces and around chemicals using appropriate PPE.
  • Basic computer skills.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or GED; technical training in mechanical, electrical or environmental fields desirable.
  • Valid Massachusetts Class D Driver's License.
  • Ability to obtain Massachusetts T1 Water Treatment Operator Certification within six (6) months of appointment.
  • Ability to obtain Massachusetts T2 Water Treatment Operator Certification within eighteen (18) months of appointment.
  • Ability to obtain Massachusetts T3 Water Treatment Operator Certification within thirty (30) months of appointment.
  • Failure to achieve required certifications or satisfactory progress within the established timeframes may result in removal from the Apprentice Program and separation from employment in accordance with applicable collective bargaining agreements and Town policies.
  • Upon successful completion of the Apprentice Program and required certifications, employees become eligible for consideration for promotion to the Treatment Plant Operator (W-4T) classification in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement and Town policies.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, climb ladders, work at heights, enter confined spaces, distinguish colors used in treatment processes, and perform duties requiring prolonged standing, walking, bending and manual dexterity.

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