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Operator Trainee Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

City of Ocala, FL

Local Hire Program - Trainee

Ocala, FL · On-site

$16.06/hr

Equipment Operator Trainee (Public Works) Manual and semi-skilled work in maintenance equipment operation. This includes, but is not limited to, operating various tractors with mowers and flatbed ...

Town of Davie

Plant Operator Trainee - Water

Davie, FL · On-site

$43K/yr

Upon obtaining a Class "C" water or wastewater plant operators license from the Florida Department of Professional Regulation - $50,675/yr Upon obtaining a Class "B" water or wastewater plant ...

City of Deltona

Waste Water Operator

Deltona, FL · On-site

$28.82 - $37.48/hr

Wastewater Operator (Trainee Opportunity Available)City of Deltona | Deltona WaterPosition DetailsISSUE DATE: 08/20/2026CLOSING DATE: 08/19/2026ELIGIBILITY: Internal & External LOCATION: Deltona ...

City of Deltona, FL

Waste Water Operator

Deltona, FL · On-site

$28.82 - $37.48/hr

Wastewater Operator (Trainee Opportunity Available) City of Deltona | Deltona Water Position Details ISSUE DATE: 08/20/2026 CLOSING DATE: 08/19/2026 ELIGIBILITY: Internal & External LOCATION: Deltona ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Florida

Operator Trainee information

See Florida salary details

$19.1K

$32.5K

$47.5K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Florida is $32,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,700.00 and $38,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operator trainee?

Operator trainees are entry-level employees who are undergoing training to learn how to operate machinery, equipment, or processes in various industries such as manufacturing, utilities, or transportation. They work under the supervision of experienced operators or trainers, gaining hands-on experience and developing the necessary skills for safe and efficient operation. The training period prepares them for more advanced roles and helps ensure they understand company procedures, safety protocols, and quality standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator trainee?

To thrive as an Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, control systems, and machinery operation—sometimes supported by OSHA certifications or technical training—is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help trainees adapt quickly and handle operational challenges. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable plant or equipment operations while minimizing downtime and incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by operator trainees during their initial training period?

Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, mastering complex machinery, and quickly learning strict safety protocols. The fast-paced environment can be demanding, requiring attention to detail and the ability to follow precise instructions. Additionally, trainees must develop effective communication skills to collaborate with experienced operators and supervisors, ensuring smooth transitions and minimizing errors. Overcoming these challenges is essential for building a strong foundation for future advancement within the organization.

What is the difference between Operator Trainee vs Equipment Operator?

AspectOperator TraineeEquipment Operator
CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingValid driver’s license, specialized certifications often required
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction sites, manufacturing plantsActive job sites, industrial facilities, construction zones
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level positions in construction, manufacturingOperational roles in construction, mining, manufacturing
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level roles, training programsSeeking job opportunities, skills required for operating equipment

In summary, an Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on training and gaining experience, often requiring minimal certifications. An Equipment Operator is a fully qualified worker responsible for operating machinery in various industrial settings. The trainee role prepares individuals for the more skilled, operational position of Equipment Operator.

What do operator trainees do?

Operator trainees learn to operate and maintain machinery or equipment in industrial, manufacturing, or utility settings. They typically receive on-the-job training, develop technical skills, and may work under supervision to ensure safety and efficiency. Completing training programs or certifications is often required to advance to full operator roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Florida?

For Operator Trainee jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,530 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee

Clearwater, FL • On-site

City of Clearwater, FL
1 - 5K employees
Learn more about City of Clearwater, FLexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

City Of Clearwater (Florida) rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Clearwater, FL
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2026-00222
Department: Public Utilities
Division: WASTEWATER OPS NORTHEAST
Opening Date: 07/10/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
THE CITY OF CLEARWATER IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship. City of Clearwater will not sponsor employment visas (e.g., H-1B, or any other work authorization status).
Position Description
Entry Salary: $ 42,045.64
POSITION OPEN UNTIL FILLED.
Under direct supervision, the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee performs semi-skilled, manual labor in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant, sludge handling facility, reclaim system, and surrounding grounds during assigned shifts. Receives technical instruction in operations, equipment, and maintenance procedures.
Duties and Responsibilities
Essential Functions: -- Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Participates in extensive training and education regarding wastewater treatment plant and all equipment and general operations; works under direct supervision and acquires skills through on the job training to acquire skills necessary to perform independently upon completion of training.
  • Makes daily operational checks, monitors meters, dials, and gauges, and records data on reports as requested.
  • Performs general administrative tasks and maintains various files.
  • Cleans and paints pumps, motors, tanks, and other plant equipment; operates pumps, valves, and gates to transfer wastewater or sludge to and from various tanks.
  • Assists with mechanical repairs; works with more experienced plant operators in their daily tasks for training and to gain necessary skills; uses control mechanisms or physical labor to operate machines or processes.
  • Loads and unloads equipment, materials, and chemicals from trucks; performs general custodial duties on all plant facilities and grounds; operates various equipment to perform daily tasks.
  • Keeps equipment clean and lubricated; maintains and provides minor repairs.
  • Takes, gathers, and compiles wastewater and sludge samples for testing; works with skilled operators to perform wastewater operational tests.
  • Provides customer service to internal and external customers and provides positive public relations.
  • Documents and records various wastewater treatment plant activities; enters, transcribes, records, stores, and maintains information in written, electronic, or magnetic form.
  • May be required to work a flexible schedule including night, weekend, and holiday hours to help complete work.
  • Responds to phone calls and emails.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
Licenses, Certifications, and Equipment:
A valid State driver's license is required.
Ability to obtain a forklift license.
Florida Department of Environmental Protection Class "C" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator's License within two (2) years of hire date.
Education and Experience:
High School Diploma or G.E.D. Certificate required; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
Supplemental Information
Knowledge of -
  • Principles of bacteriology, general science and chemistry
  • Functions and mechanics of wastewater and sludge pumping equipment and other treatment plant machinery
  • Common tools
  • Mathematics
  • Equipment maintenance practices and methods

Skill in -
  • Distinguishing colors easily
  • Reading simple meters, gauges, and charts
  • Learning, interpreting and applying various regulations and codes
  • Applying mechanical and mathematical aptitude
  • Seeing numbers and demarcations on gauges or dials
  • Operating industrial and personal computers with general proficiency
  • Understanding and interpreting complex policies, protocols, and procedures
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and/or written instructions
  • Ability to communicate courteously with other staff and the public

FULL TIME EMPLOYEES ONLY RECEIVE:
Health and Wellness initiatives • 100% employee health care coverage • Option for dependent health care • Life Insurance • Optional Dental, Vision, AFLAC • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Retirement -General Employee Pension Plan • Voluntary Tax-deferred 457 Plan • Paid holiday, vacation, sick leave plans • Competitive Salaries • Tuition assistance • Training and development opportunities • Travel compensation • Military leave • Bereavement leave • Discount coupons • Service and employee recognition awards
PART TIME EMPLOYEES ONLY RECEIVE:
Paid holiday, vacation, sick leave plans • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Competitive hourly rates • Flexible schedules • Training and development opportunities • Discount coupons • Service and employee recognition awards
SEASONAL, VARIABLE, TEMPORARY, EMERGENCY EMPLOYEES RECEIVE NO BENEFITS.
01
What level of Driver's License do you currently possess?
  • CDL A
  • CDL B
  • Regular (E)
  • ID Only
  • Out of State
  • None of the above

02
What is your highest level of education?
  • Masters Degree or higher
  • Bachelors Degree
  • Associates Degree
  • High School Diploma or GED Certificate
  • Completion of 10th grade
  • Less than 10th grade education

03
Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B visa status)?"
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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