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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

WRF Operator III

Gainesville, GA ยท On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

The locations would be either at our Flat Creek Plant (2641 Old Flowery Branch Rd, Gainesville) or ... Six months experience as a WRF Trainee or previous experience as a state certified wastewater ...

WRF Operator III

Flowery Branch, GA ยท On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

The locations would be either at our Flat Creek Plant (2641 Old Flowery Branch Rd, Gainesville) or ... Six months experience as a WRF Trainee or previous experience as a state certified wastewater ...

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our team members ... Conduct snow removal according to plant needs as assigned. 16. Perform other duties as assigned ...

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... Conduct snow removal according to plant needs as assigned. 16. Perform other duties as assigned ...

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... Conduct snow removal according to plant needs as assigned. 16. Perform other duties as assigned ...

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA

$18 - $24.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our team members ... Conduct snow removal according to plant needs as assigned. 16. Perform other duties as assigned ...

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our team members ... Conduct snow removal according to plant needs as assigned. 16. Perform other duties as assigned ...

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Plant Operator Trainee information

See Georgia salary details

$25.8K

$44.7K

$72.2K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Georgia is $44,720.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,500.00 and $50,200.00 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 Georgia?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,720 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Plant Operator, Trainee

City of Augusta, GA

Augusta, GA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The purpose of this classification is to perform skilled technical work to operate, control and maintain equipment at a water treatment plant to maintain compliance with applicable local, state, and federal environmental rules and regulations for the Consolidated Government's water utility. This is an entry-level position. Incumbents in this classification are under close supervision and learn how to monitor and analyze operating and processing conditions. Reports to Assistant Treatment Plant Manager or other designated persons. Works with co-workers and the public to provide operational support.
Key Responsibilities and Performance Standards
Operates an assigned water treatment plant for the Consolidate Government. Monitors plant operations and processes, checks system components, identifies any problems and makes necessary adjustments. Ensures continuous and effective operation and maintains compliance with applicable local, state and federal regulations, standards and guidelines. Monitors and inspects plant operation and equipment to ensure treatment process optimization. Documents all activities.
Monitors chemical feeds, distribution, flow rates, and related treatment processes. Maintains appropriate chemical levels. Adjusts system controls, adds, adjusts and replaces chemicals in the plant's systems and components; and maintains related documentation. Adjusts treatment processes and chemical delivery to ensure water quality exceeds Federal and State standards. Verifies optimum treatment process by performing chemical feed calibrations and laboratory test.
Reads meters, gauges and dials. Records readings, chemical levels, water properties and statistical data. Prepares and maintains a variety of logs, records and reports to include flowcharts, production reports, and operation logs. Performs minor repairs and helps maintain machines, equipment, pumps, electrical equipment, and upkeep of facilities including grass cutting, hedging, cleaning, and manually transporting of chemicals.
Collects and tests water samples. Performs all necessary qualitative and quantitative laboratory tests, control testing and analyzes test results. Maintains records of findings and sample characteristics while calibrates test equipment while determining the need for treatment process changes. Cleans and maintains laboratory equipment. Prepares to obtain State certification.
Inspects station systems, facilities and equipment. Performs preventive maintenance and repairs on station equipment, pumps, gauges, fencing, grounds, and other assigned areas. Performs routine maintenance, such as changing filters, beds and other parts as required. Lubricates and adjusts power driven pumps, checks storage, fuel tanks, cleans equipment, flushes system, makes minor electrical and/or plumbing repairs as needed. Maintains related documentation and reports any problems needing repairs to the supervisor.
Prepares or completes plant records, logs, checklists, and other documents as required by local, state, and federal rules and regulations. Records and reports process changes, equipment failures, service requests, work orders, and other details. Maintains required record keeping.
As Required Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.
POSITION SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES MIGHT INCLUDE:
  • All work is performed under the supervision of a certified operator.
  • Monitors and inspects plant operation and equipment.
  • Participates in training to prepare for Georgia certification.

PERFORMANCE APTITUDES:
  • Data Utilization: Requires the ability to determine, calculate, tabulate, or summarize data/information. Includes performing subsequent actions in relation to these computational operations.
  • Human Interaction: Requires the ability to exchange information for the purpose of clarifying details within well-established policies, procedures and standards.
  • Equipment: Requires the ability to operate and control the actions of equipment, machinery, tools and/or materials requiring complex and/or rapid adjustments.
  • Verbal: Requires the ability to utilize a wide variety of reference and descriptive data and information.
  • Math: Requires the ability to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication and division; ability to calculate decimals and percentages; may include ability to perform mathematical operations with fractions; may include ability to compute discount, interest, and ratios; may include ability to calculate surface areas, volumes, weights, and measures.
  • Functional Reasoning: Requires the ability to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagrammatic form. Involves semi-routine standardized work with some latitude for independent judgment concerning choices of action.
  • Situational Reasoning: Requires the ability to exercise judgment, decisiveness and creativity in situations involving evaluation of information against measurable or verifiable criteria.
  • Physical Abilities: Tasks require the regular and, at times, sustained performance of moderately physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling, and that may involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of moderately heavy objects and materials (20-50 pounds).
  • Sensory Requirements: Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate colors or shades of colors, sounds, odor, and visual cues or signals. Some tasks require the ability to communicate orally.
  • Environmental Factors: Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental conditions, such as dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, rain, fumes, temperature and noise extremes, machinery, vibrations, electric currents, toxic agents, disease, or pathogenic substances.

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to this job.
Required minimum qualifications:
Education: High School diploma or GED.
Experience: One (1) year of work experience that shows and ability to maintain steady employment in any field.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Proficiency in basic math and chemistry.
  • Ability to learn and apply new concepts.
  • Good communication skills, both oral and written.
  • Must demonstrate initiative in preparing for test and performing all duties.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently or with a team.
  • Established ability to perform under high stress and remain congenial.
  • Must have ability to actively listen to others to understand their needs.

Certifications: Must obtain and maintain certification as a Class III Water Treatment Plant Operator within one year of hire. Failure to meet this requirement will result in termination of employment.
License: Possession of a valid driver's license with good driving history. If State license is other than Georgia or South Carolina, applicant must obtain a license in Georgia or South Carolina within 30 days of employment.
This position requires staff call up in emergency situation
Travel from office to other locations is required of this position
The percentage of travel involved is less than 50%