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Operator Trainee Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and operating standards. * Perform other duties ... Sales Trainees will receive ongoing mentorship, training, and performance coaching to support their ...

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

The Sales Trainee is responsible for completing the Sales Trainee orientation program that covers all aspects of business sales within a comprehensive and progressive timeframe. This includes ...

The Sales Trainee is responsible for completing the Sales Trainee orientation program that covers all aspects of business sales within a comprehensive and progressive timeframe. This includes ...

The Sales Trainee is responsible for completing the Sales Trainee orientation program that covers all aspects of business sales within a comprehensive and progressive timeframe. This includes ...

The Sales Trainee is responsible for completing the Sales Trainee orientation program that covers all aspects of business sales within a comprehensive and progressive timeframe. This includes ...

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Showing results 1-20

Operator Trainee information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$24.5K

$41.9K

$61.1K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Atlanta, GA is $41,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,700.00 and $49,000.00 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?

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.

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 most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Atlanta, GA? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Atlanta, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Atlanta, GA? For Operator Trainee jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Atlanta, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Atlanta, GA are:
What cities near Atlanta, GA are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Atlanta, GA with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Atlanta, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,861 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee, III, II, or I

Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority

Marietta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

The Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority located in Marietta, Georgia is a regional public utility that provides potable water (drinking water and water for fire protection) on a wholesale basis. We are the second largest supplier of drinking water in Georgia. Our customers include counties and municipalities in the metro region – as well as Lockheed Martin Corporation.
We have built a strong reputation of success by investing in the protection of our precious water resources through conservation programs such as waterSmart, while maintaining dependable customer service and consistent product quality at competitive wholesale rates. The Authority is in a strong financial position and enjoys a triple AAA bond rating. Additional information on the Authority is available at our web site at ccmwa.org.
Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee, III, II, or I
Water Treatment Operators (III, II, and I) are responsible for producing high quality drinking water by monitoring the water treatment process in accordance with Federal, State and Authority standards as well as maintaining distribution water levels and pressures as system demand dictates. Work is performed in accord with established practices and procedures. Duties require the exercise of independent judgment. This position reports to the Operations Superintendent.
Schedule:
At this time, positions in this class are assigned twelve (12) hours days with 4 days on/4 days off, requiring overtime. The hours are Noon to Midnight or Midnight to Noon. Holidays and weekends may fall within a scheduled 4-day shift and will be required to be worked unless otherwise approved by the Superintendent.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Tasks and responsibilities which are common to the Water Treatment Plant Operator positions include:
• Monitors and adjusts the pumping system of the treatment plant to control water flow through the plant and distribution system. Inspects plant equipment and processes, checks gauges, records flows, levels and pressures. Monitors pumps, motors, and other equipment essential to the operation of the plant.
• Takes water samples and analyzes for pH, chlorine residual, fluoride and chlorine dioxide on an hourly basis and others as assigned.
• Controls, monitors and cleans water filters as required.
• Adjusts chemical dose rate as needed using laboratory results.
• Monitors the flow throughout the plant to ensure water quality.
• Monitors raw water pump station.
• Maintains log books and enters the following data into computer system: laboratory analysis results, plant operating data, distribution system data, filter operating data, process control changes, chemical inventory and other data as required.
• Documents all problems or complaints. Documents maintenance problems using computerized maintenance system and issues work requests.
• Answers phone and monitors security system providing access to identified visitors.
• Changes chlorine feed system by connecting and exchanging one-ton chlorine cylinders using electrical lifting/moving hoist.
• Receives chemical deliveries.
• May be assigned to act as shift leader, providing direction and training to other operators, and assuming responsibility for overall direction, coordination and evaluation of this unit. Caries out leadership responsibilities within the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include assigning and directing work, addressing complaints and resolving problems.
• Performs custodial duties.
• May act as a tour guide for visiting groups.
• Works overtime as required.
• Performs related duties as required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Knowledge of the principles of surface water treatment, coagulation chemistry, disinfection, filtration and hydraulics.
• Knowledge of centrifugal and vertical lift pumps and motors used to power the pumping units.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, machines, equipment, materials and operating and maintenance procedures of a modern automated treatment plant.
• Knowledge of water treatment nomenclature and water treatment processes and regulations.
• Knowledge of occupational hazards connected with water plan operation and maintenance, and of necessary safety equipment and precautions.
• Knowledge of applicable laws, rules and regulations.
• Knowledge of basic biological and chemical reactions.
• Knowledge of recordkeeping practices.
• Skill in prioritizing work.
• Skill in using a computer and applicable software applications.
• Skill in collecting and recording sample data.
• Skill in performing jar tests and determining coagulant dosage.
• Skill in operating testing equipment and performing basic chemical tests.
• Ability to calculate dosages, flows, detention times and flow rates.
• Ability to detect faulty operating characteristics in equipment or processes to initiate remedial action.
• Communication and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with co-workers, supervisors and the general public.
• Ability to read and interpret various documents such as safety rules, operation and maintenance instructions, procedures manuals and related documentation.
• Ability to complete regulatory compliance reports and act in the absence of the Operations Superintendent.
• Ability to operate pilot testing equipment, analyze results and make a recommendation.
• Ability to work in hazardous chemical conditions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, vendors and the public.
Minimum Qualifications Required (WTP Operator Trainee):
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position.
• Georgia Class III Surface Water must be obtained within a period of 18 months from the date of employment.
• This position requires Georgia Driver’s License with a good driving record. A good driving record must be maintained to continue employment with the Authority.
Minimum Qualifications Required (Water Treatment Plant Operator III):
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position.
• Need mechanical aptitude and should be competent in basic math, chemistry and biology and have a working knowledge of algebra and geometry.
• Operator II’s must have the ability to apply data to formulas of treatment requirements.
• Class II Surface Water required. Requires Georgia Driver’s License with a good driving record and must maintain a good driving record to be allowed to continue employment with the Authority.
Minimum Qualifications Required (Water Treatment Plant Operator II):
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position.
• Need mechanical aptitude and should be competent in basic math, chemistry and biology and have a working knowledge of algebra and geometry.
• Class III Surface Water Treatment certification is required.
• This position requires Georgia Driver’s License with a good driving record. A good driving record must be maintained to continue employment with the Authority.
Minimum Qualifications Required (Water Treatment Plant Operator I):
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities required for the position.
• Need mechanical aptitude and should be competent in basic math, chemistry and biology and have a working knowledge of algebra and geometry.
• Must have the ability to apply data to formulas of treatment requirements.
• Class I Surface Water required.
• Requires Georgia Driver’s License with a good driving record and must maintain a good driving record to be allowed to continue employment with the Authority.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk, hear, taste, smell and see.
• The employee occasionally works in precarious places and in outside weather conditions and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or extreme heat or cold temperatures.
• While performing this job the employee frequently works near open basins of water, chemicals and fumes and areas under construction.
• The noise level in the work environment can be loud.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk, hear, taste, smell and see.
• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Pay Grade 23: $42,376.09 – $61,445.33 annual WTP Operator Trainee
Pay Grade 28: $54,327.57 - $84,207.73 annual WTP Operator III
Pay Grade 30: $59,896.14 - $92,839.02 annual WTP Operator II
Pay Grade 32: $66,035.49 - $102,355.01 annual WTP Operator I