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Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Richmond, VA · On-site

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... FO Trainee - * Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 ...

Bedford Regional Water Authority

Be Seen First

Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Bedford, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The candidate will perform skilled and responsible work related to the efficient, safe, and compliant ...

Hampton Roads Transit

Bus Operator Trainee

Norfolk, VA

$20.75 - $27.50/hr

Responsible for operating Agency revenue service vehicles safely to include 29 to 40 ft buses used in public transportation in the cities of Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Richmond, VA

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to ...

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All JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Virginia

Operator Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$43.2K

$63K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Virginia is $43,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,700.00 and $50,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 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.

How to become an operator with no experience?

To become an operator trainee with no experience, individuals should focus on gaining basic technical skills, such as understanding machinery and safety procedures, often through vocational training or certification programs. Entry-level positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is typically provided to develop specific operational skills and knowledge of equipment.

What are operator trainees?

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 is the role of an operator trainee?

An operator trainee is an entry-level worker who learns to operate machinery or equipment under supervision. They typically receive on-the-job training, may need to obtain relevant certifications, and develop skills in safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and operational protocols to become fully qualified operators.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2000 a day typically include specialized roles such as high-level consultants, surgeons, or senior executives, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, or extensive experience. Certain freelance or contract positions in fields like software development, engineering, or finance may also reach this level with significant expertise and workload. These roles usually involve demanding schedules and high responsibility.

What jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

Operator Trainees typically do not earn $5,000 a week without additional experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include specialized trades such as commercial pilots, certain sales roles, or skilled trades like elevator installers, but these usually require specific training or licenses. Most roles paying this much weekly are either highly skilled, commission-based, or require significant experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Virginia? For Operator Trainee jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,157 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Facility Operator Trainee

Facility Operator Trainee

Essential Utilities, Inc.

Winchester, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Aqua, an Essential Utilities company, employs people in a variety of roles within our eight-state footprint, ranging from field workers and customer service representatives who are on the front lines working with customers, to scientists and engineers who help ensure we're delivering reliable water and wastewater services to our communities. If you're looking for a rewarding career helping improve our environment and protect our natural resources, we encourage you to join our team!
About Essential Utilities
Essential Utilities, Inc. delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities.
Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status - including a competitive and comprehensive benefits package as well as a commitment to career growth opportunities.
We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.
Our company is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES: (Primary Duties and Responsibilities)
  • Maintains equipment at the assigned water production facilities and booster stations.
  • Operates and maintains distribution systems including mains, valves, hydrants and service lines.
  • Maintains equipment at the wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations.
  • Operates and maintains sewer collection systems including collections mains and pump stations.
  • Troubleshoots and repairs service piping and other related equipment .
  • Performs routine water quality analysis in accordance with established processes and procedures.
  • Makes operational adjustments as needed to comply with state and federal water quality standards.
  • Adjusts chemical treatment to ensure water quality meets standards. Calculates various ratios and dosages.
  • Completes customer service work orders, updates and maintains appropriate system documentation of activities and closes work orders in accordance with department policies and procedures.
  • Performs all tasks safely, professionally and in accordance with company policies and procedures as well as local, state and federal laws, rules and guidelines.
  • Assists with other tasks or projects as assigned

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function(s).
QUALIFICATIONS (Required Experience, Education, Licenses, and Certifications)
  • A high school diploma or GED.
  • No previous experience required.
  • A valid U.S. Driver's License.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Familiarity with computers / tablets and the basic operation of database, spreadsheet and word processing programs preferred
  • Ability to read, understand and accurately follow operating instructions both written and verbal
  • Mathematical ability to perform calculations to determine various ratios, dosages, volumetric calculations that are required for the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Plants and Water Treatment Plants
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate in writing
  • Familiarity with and understanding of the need to prevent wastewater pollution of area waters
  • Understand and maintain plan processes through computer-controlled equipment
  • A team player able to work effectively in a team fostered multi-tasking environment

Career Progression Schedule:
FO Trainee -
  • Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 months of employment.

FO I -
  • Minimum license requirement of C Well or Grade I.

FO II -
  • Must meet dual licensing requirements and have either a B Well or a Grade II.

FO III -
  • Must meet dual licensing requirements of at least a B Well and Grade II plus have an A Well or Grade III.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • May be subject to extreme temperatures, noise, wet and/or humid conditions, mechanical, electrical, gas exposure hazards, fumes, dusts, mists, gases and /or poor ventilation atmospheric conditions.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
  • Working conditions include travel to work sites of Essential Utilities and/or other constituents.
  • Must obtain a CDL Class C with Hazmat endorsement within 90 days of hire
  • Must be available to be on-call nights and on weekends to adequately staff a 24 hour/7day operation

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Aqua, an Essential Utilities company is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. Equal employment opportunity is provided to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to the following legally protected characteristics: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions, including medical conditions related to lactation), physical or mental disability, covered-veteran status, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state or federal law.
Aqua is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you have a condition that may prevent you from applying for a job online or need to request an accommodation during the interview process, please call (1-877-271-9012).
To maintain the integrity of the recruitment process and to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest due to employment and/or assignment of family members and personal referrals, specific guidelines apply to the hiring and assignment of these individuals including, but not limited to:
  • Family members cannot result in a supervisor/subordinate reporting relationship
  • Family members cannot work in the same department.

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