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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Strong communication and coordination skills with system marketers, especially around unit commitment, plant status, and Energy Imbalance Market operations. The ECC BA Operator Trainee is expected to ...

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Strong communication and coordination skills with system marketers, especially around unit commitment, plant status, and Energy Imbalance Market operations. The ECC BA Operator Trainee is expected to ...

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Strong communication and coordination skills with system marketers, especially around unit commitment, plant status, and Energy Imbalance Market operations. The ECC BA Operator Trainee is expected to ...

... Trainee (OST) duties are: Satisfactory completion of all training objectives to develop the skills ... Seeking experienced Combined Cycle power plant Control Room Operator. Preferably with GE 7FA ...

ECC Transmission Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ ยท On-site

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

Summary The ECC Transmission Operator Trainee is expected to complete qualifications within ... High school/GED and four (4) years' experience in a related field, such as power plant operations ...

The position is located ar our Kyrene Generating Plant in Tempe, Arizona. What You'll Do This ... to the Operator Specialist classification. Major duties: The duties specified are only those ...

Notifies Control Room Operator of any problems. 4) Communicates with the Control Room regarding plant status and conditions on an ongoing basis in areas where qualifications have been completed. 5) ...

Hydromet CLP Operator Trainee

Bagdad, AZ ยท On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Experience operating material handling equipment including forklift, skid steer loader, and ... Work is performed in a mine or manufacturing plant setting, which may include exposure to extremes ...

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Plant Operator Trainee information

See Arizona salary details

$28.4K

$49.4K

$79.7K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Arizona is $49,355.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,100.00 and $55,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plant operator trainee?

Plant Operator Trainees are entry-level employees who learn to operate, monitor, and maintain machinery and equipment at facilities such as power plants, water treatment plants, or manufacturing sites. They receive on-the-job training to understand safety procedures, equipment operation, and facility protocols under the supervision of experienced operators. Their goal is to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to eventually become fully qualified Plant Operators. This role typically involves a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience.

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

To thrive as a Plant Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, a high school diploma or equivalent, and a willingness to learn plant operations. Familiarity with SCADA systems, safety protocols, and basic hand tools is often required, and some employers may prefer candidates with relevant certifications like OSHA or confined space entry. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help trainees adapt quickly and contribute to safe, efficient plant operations. These skills are crucial for ensuring safety, minimizing downtime, and supporting the smooth functioning of the facility.

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

Plant Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to rotating shift schedules, learning to monitor complex machinery, and quickly troubleshooting minor operational issues. Trainees must also become familiar with strict safety protocols and environmental regulations, which can be overwhelming at first. However, with mentorship from experienced operators and structured hands-on training, most trainees are able to develop the necessary confidence and skills to handle these responsibilities effectively.

What is the difference between Plant Operator Trainee vs Plant Operator?

AspectPlant Operator TraineePlant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications may be preferredTypically requires relevant certifications or licenses, such as a state-issued operator license
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning on the jobFull responsibility for operating equipment, more autonomous
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting and learning under supervisionOperating machinery, monitoring systems, troubleshooting

In summary, a Plant Operator Trainee is in a learning phase, gaining skills and certifications needed to become a fully qualified Plant Operator. The trainee role involves supervision and assistance, while the Plant Operator role involves independent operation and responsibility.

How to get hired as a plant operator trainee?

To get hired as a plant operator trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training or certification, and sometimes a valid driver's license. Employers often look for basic mechanical skills, the ability to follow safety procedures, and willingness to learn on the job. Prior experience in related roles or with operating machinery can be advantageous.

Is it hard to become a plant operator trainee?

Becoming a plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, technical training, and sometimes a relevant certification. The process involves passing written exams and gaining on-the-job experience, making it moderately challenging but achievable with proper preparation and training. Skills in mechanical systems, safety procedures, and attention to detail are important for success in this role.

What degree do I need to become a plant operator trainee?

A plant operator trainee typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require post-secondary education such as an associate degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Relevant skills include understanding of mechanical systems and safety procedures, and obtaining certifications like a commercial driver's license or plant-specific training can be beneficial.

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

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Arizona are:

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

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

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,355 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

WATER PLANT OPERATOR LEAD

Lake Havasu City, AZ

Lake Havasu City, AZ โ€ข On-site

$31.91 - $46.27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

**WATER PLANT OPERATOR LEAD**

Lake Havasu City, AZ

Closing Date: Open until Filled

OTF26-308

Salary:ย $31.91-$46.27/Hourly DOQ

Trainee: $28.71/Hourly

Grade: CP11

FLSA Status:ย Non-Exemptย  ย ย ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย  ย 

Department:ย PW/Water Treatment

INITIAL APPLICATION REVIEW WILL TAKE PLACE TWO WEEKS AFTER OPEN. INTERESTED CANDIDATES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. ADDITIONAL APPLICATION REVIEW WILL ONLY BE CONDUCTED IF NECESSARY.

Lake Havasu City is seeking a highly motivated and experiencedย Water Plant Operator Leadย to join our Water Division team. In this essential leadership role, you'll oversee daily operations at our water treatment facility, guide and support plant operators, and ensure we continue delivering high-quality, safe drinking water to our growing community.

This is an excellent opportunity for a certified operator ready to take the next step into leadership, training, and complex system troubleshooting.

What you will do:

  • Lead and train operations staff in daily plant functions

  • Operate and monitor treatment processes, equipment, and SCADA systems

  • Perform lab testing and analyze water quality data

  • Ensure compliance with ADEQ and EPA regulations

  • Oversee preventative maintenance and coordinate repairs

  • Maintain accurate records, logs, and compliance documentation

  • Respond to emergency situations and participate in on-call rotation

TO VIEW DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION,ย Click Here

IDEAL CANDIDATE:

We're looking for someone who is:

  • Aย strong team playerย with excellent time management and communication skills.

  • Experienced inย a lead position at a potable water treatment plant.

  • Aย natural leaderย who inspires others and builds strong community relationships

  • Exceptionallyย organized,ย detail-oriented, and committed to excellence

  • Knowledgeย of regulatory requirements for water quality.ย 

REQUIREMENTS

  • High School Diploma

  • 3-5 years' experience in utility plant operations and maintenance, or equivalent combination of education and experience.ย 

  • Possession of Grade III Water Treatment and Grade IV Water Treatment Certification issued by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) at hire.

  • Possession of a valid Commercial Driver License Class B with a Tanker Endorsement is preferred.

The selected candidate who does not possess the required certification will be considered a trainee at the time of hire.

Position may also require one (1) or more of the following certifications depending on assignment:

Confined Space Certification.

Lock-out/tag-out

Forklift Certification.

Hazardous Materials Certification

Lake Havasu City offers an exceptional benefits package for full-time (FTE) Employees:ย 

ย  ย  Employer-provided Medical/Rx (EPO or HDHP)

ย  ย  Dental/Vision

ย  ย  Wellness Program

ย  ย  Employee Assistance Program

ย  ย  Flexible Spending Account/Health Savings Account

ย  ย  Employer-Provided Basic Life Insurance

ย  ย  Optional Additional Life Insurance

ย  ย  Optional Insurance-Critical Illness, Hospitalization, Indemnity

ย  ย  11 Paid Holidays Annually

ย  ย  Bereavement Leave

ย  ย  Paid Vacationย 

ย  ย  Short Term Disabilityย 

ย  ย  Long Term Disability

ย  ย  Opportunities for advancement

ย  ย  Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)

ย  ย  Optional Deferred Compensation

ย  ย  Tuition Reimbursement

ย  ย  Service Awards

Additional Comments

Lake Havasu City is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.ย 

Applicants for employment opportunities should be aware of the Lake Havasu City policies concerning the use of drugs and alcohol. These policies have not been altered by the passage of Proposition 207. The use of recreational marijuana is a violation of the City's Drug Free Workplace Policy. All positions within the City are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test. A positive result for drugs tested under the policy, including recreational marijuana, may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment.ย 

The City reserves the right to consider only the most highly qualified applicants. The succeeding examination processes may be required: training and experience, testing, panel interview, employment eligibility verification (EEV) requirements, personnel evaluation profile (PEP), polygraph test, background investigation, and alcohol/drug screening test. Appointment subject to successful background investigation and City-paid post-employment medical examination after offer of employment has been made.

Lake Havasu City sits comfortably on the eastern shore of Lake Havasu along the Colorado River border of California and Arizona. The city was established in 1963 by Robert P. McCulloch, Sr. as a self-sufficient, planned community.

Lake Havasu City is located on what is known as "Arizona's West Coast," just 3 hours west of Phoenix, 2 hours south of Las Vegas and 4-5 hours east of the Los Angeles area. As part of the northern and western limits of the Sonoran Desert, Lake Havasu City and the surrounding area feature outstanding biodiversity absolutely loaded with beautiful experiences.