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Operator Trainee Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Manager Trainee

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Opportunity for advancement Manager Trainee--Minuteman Marketing. We're seeking a motivated trainee ... This is a production-heavy role--you'll be operating printers, folders, cutters, and finishing ...

Commercial Truck/Bus Sales Trainee (We will train the right person) Location: KNeal North/Hyattsville Reports To: Sales Manager Are you looking to grow your career with us? We're excited to offer an ...

Commercial Truck/Bus Sales Trainee (We will train the right person) Location:KNeal North/Hyattsville Reports To:Sales Manager Are you looking to grow your career with us? We're excited to offer an ...

Commercial Truck/Bus Sales Trainee (We will train the right person) Location: KNeal North/Hyattsville Reports To: Sales Manager Are you looking to grow your career with us? We're excited to offer an ...

Commercial Truck/Bus Sales Trainee (We will train the right person) Location:KNeal North/Hyattsville Reports To:Sales Manager Are you looking to grow your career with us? Were excited to offer an ...

Manager Trainee Are you ready to build a rewarding and lifelong career? Do you thrive in a team environment that challenges you to be your best? Join 84 Lumber, a family-owned company founded on ...

Posted today

Manager Trainee Are you ready to build a rewarding and lifelong career? Do you thrive in a team environment that challenges you to be your best? Join 84 Lumber, a family-owned company founded on ...

Posted today

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first promotion within six months. COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE: We offer all the benefits you expect ...

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first promotion within six months. COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE: We offer all the benefits you expect ...

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first promotion within six months. COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE: We offer all the benefits you expect ...

Over 96% of our store managers began as Manager Trainees, and on average, you can earn your first promotion within six months. COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE: We offer all the benefits you expect ...

The Management Trainee will work closely with experienced managers to learn about Outside Sales, Production/Warehouse Management, Office Management, Service Management and ultimately prepare you for ...

Sales Trainee

Hanover, MD · On-site

$200 - $233.45/day

Job Overview The Sales Trainee position is a foundational role designed to provide hands-on experience in sales, account management, and customer relationship building. As a Sales Trainee, you will ...

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Showing results 1-20

Operator Trainee information

See Washington, DC salary details

$28.9K

$49.3K

$71.9K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Washington, DC is $49,302.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,400.00 and $57,800.00 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 Washington, DC? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Washington, DC? For Operator Trainee jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,302 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

$52K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description
Ready to Advance the future of water!
Trainee Operator
Grade 4
$52,964 - $84,743*
Open: June 22, 2026 ? Close: Open Until Filled
*Starting salary will be between minimum and midpoint in the range.
ABOUT US
Are you passionate about making a difference and being a trusted steward of our most precious resource? UOSA is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our team!
The Upper Occoquan Service Authority (UOSA) is a cutting-edge water recycling facility transforming the way the world thinks about sustainable water solutions. Established in 1978, UOSA serves Fairfax County, Prince William County, and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park and is the first and longest-operated indirect potable reuse project in the United States. UOSA has been treating and reclaiming water for use as drinking water for nearly 50 years.
From being recognized as a Utility of the Future to pioneering advanced research and technology in the industry, our facility now recycles up to 54 million gallons of water per day. UOSA's efforts ensure a reliable supply of high-quality recycled water, contributing to the overall drinking water strategy for the Northern Virginia area.
If you are ready to join a hardworking team, then take the next step in your career and apply today to be part of our dedicated team!
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
Water Quality Operators work 24/7/365 on assigned fixed shifts. New hires will work all shifts, transitioning to an assigned shift dependent upon the plant's need after 6 months. The Trainee Operator is trained to perform a wide range of tasks of one section (Liquid Team sections; including SRF and Conventional Treatment, Chemical Treatment, AWT Physical Treatment and Activated Carbon Regeneration Furnace; or Solids Team sections; which may include Presses and Trucks, Centrifuge, Dryer Field, Dryer Driver or Carbon Regeneration Furnace) of the facility. Work is performed alongside highly skilled UOSA employees and under the immediate supervision of a Water Quality Manager or experienced operator in accordance with the provisions of each section.
Responsibilities of the position include but is not limited to, operating and monitoring treatment equipment that may include pumps, motors, rake arms, etc., the use of process equipment for assigned sections, perform house-cleaning tasks on a regular basis, collect samples for lab analysis and perform tests on samples collected, collects and records data required for logbooks, troubleshoot malfunctioning equipment and writes maintenance work order requests.
WHO YOU ARE
Innovative Thinker: You embrace challenges and develop creative solutions that enhance water treatment processes
Purpose-Driven: You are committed to sustainability and take pride in contributing to the future of clean water
Collaborative Partner: You enjoy working alongside skilled professionals, sharing knowledge, and achieving success as a team
Ready to Advance the future of water!
Trainee Operator
Grade 4
$52,964 - $84,743*
Open: June 22, 2026 ? Close: Open Until Filled
*Starting salary will be between minimum and midpoint in the range.
ABOUT US
Are you passionate about making a difference and being a trusted steward of our most precious resource? UOSA is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our team!
The Upper Occoquan Service Authority (UOSA) is a cutting-edge water recycling facility transforming the way the world thinks about sustainable water solutions. Established in 1978, UOSA serves Fairfax County, Prince William County, and the cities of Manassas and Manassas Park and is the first and longest-operated indirect potable reuse project in the United States. UOSA has been treating and reclaiming water for use as drinking water for nearly 50 years.
From being recognized as a Utility of the Future to pioneering advanced research and technology in the industry, our facility now recycles up to 54 million gallons of water per day. UOSA's efforts ensure a reliable supply of high-quality recycled water, contributing to the overall drinking water strategy for the Northern Virginia area.
If you are ready to join a hardworking team, then take the next step in your career and apply today to be part of our dedicated team!
WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING
Water Quality Operators work 24/7/365 on assigned fixed shifts. New hires will work all shifts, transitioning to an assigned shift dependent upon the plant's need after 6 months. The Trainee Operator is trained to perform a wide range of tasks of one section (Liquid Team sections; including SRF and Conventional Treatment, Chemical Treatment, AWT Physical Treatment and Activated Carbon Regeneration Furnace; or Solids Team sections; which may include Presses and Trucks, Centrifuge, Dryer Field, Dryer Driver or Carbon Regeneration Furnace) of the facility. Work is performed alongside highly skilled UOSA employees and under the immediate supervision of a Water Quality Manager or experienced operator in accordance with the provisions of each section.
Responsibilities of the position include but is not limited to, operating and monitoring treatment equipment that may include pumps, motors, rake arms, etc., the use of process equipment for assigned sections, perform house-cleaning tasks on a regular basis, collect samples for lab analysis and perform tests on samples collected, collects and records data required for logbooks, troubleshoot malfunctioning equipment and writes maintenance work order requests.
WHO YOU ARE
Innovative Thinker: You embrace challenges and develop creative solutions that enhance water treatment processes
Purpose-Driven: You are committed to sustainability and take pride in contributing to the future of clean water
Collaborative Partner: You enjoy working alongside skilled professionals, sharing knowledge, and achieving success as a team
Requirements
REQUIREMENTS
Completion of high school or a GED program, preferably including basic mathematics and science courses. A two-year degree program in mathematics or science is desirable; or any equivalent combination of education, experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Possession of a vehicle operator's license valid in the Commonwealth of Virginia is required.
Must be able to handle the physical requirements of the position, including extensive walking, bending, stooping, climbing stairs and ladders, and lifting/carrying up to 75 pounds.
Must be able to work in Permit Required Confined Spaces and to become Confined Space Entry certified.
Application Process:
The vacancy notice does not imply that these are the only duties, including essential duties, to be performed in the position. Please request a full job description from the HR Department via email at good.jobs@uosa.org.
All employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment drug and alcohol screening, physical exam, and background check paid for by UOSA.
To be fully considered for the position, all applicants must submit a complete online application along with an updated resume via the UOSA website: Uosa.org/Careers > Candidate Profile.
Once logged into your profile, click on Find Jobsin the upper left-hand corner of the screen, followed by Search for Jobs. Review the vacancy and apply for the position.
Join us in making a difference!
UOSA is an equal opportunity employer. EOE