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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Major Duties WATER PLANT OPERATOR III - This is the trainee/entry level classification level. Major Duties: Operates and maintains equipment such as pumps, blowers, motors, bar screens, chemical feed ...

WRF Operator III

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

Performs pH tests on septic tank loads in order to accept or reject loads according to plant ... D Six months experience as a WRF Trainee or previous experience as a state certified wastewater ...

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 · 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 · On-site

$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 ...

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA · 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 ...

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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 9, 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.

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 protocols, and willingness to learn on the job, with some positions requiring passing a background check and drug test.

Is being a plant operator trainee worth it?

A plant operator trainee role provides hands-on experience in operating and maintaining industrial equipment, often leading to full-time positions with competitive wages and benefits. The job requires technical skills, safety awareness, and sometimes certifications, making it a valuable entry point into the energy, manufacturing, or utilities industries.

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.

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.

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 learning safety protocols, operating procedures, and gaining hands-on experience, which can vary in difficulty depending on prior knowledge and training opportunities.

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 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 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,720 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Plant Operator Trainee (Water Reclamation)

Clayton County Water Authority

Jonesboro, GA

$24.65 - $38.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position: Plant Operator Trainee (Water Reclamation)

Department: Water Reclamation

PAYGRADE: 105 NE

Pay: Min: $24.65 Mid: $31.42 Max: $38.20

DEADLINE: August 11, 2026

JOB SUMMARY

The purpose of this entry-level position is to perform (under close supervision) a variety of
skilled and semi-skilled technical and maintenance work in the operation, maintenance, and
repair of the wastewater treatment or water production facilities and systems in compliance
with established environmental guidelines; to learn how to monitor and analyze operating and
processing conditions; and to take action to modify process control or equipment operation to
maintain compliance with applicable local, state, and federal environmental rules and
regulations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Attends on-the-job and other training sessions to gain skills and knowledge regarding
plant operations, job performance, and policies, procedures, rules, and regulations;
reads training materials; completes tests and skills assessments; and obtains and
maintains required certifications.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding monitoring plant equipment; assists with
inspecting operating equipment and observing the plant’s Supervisory Control and
Data Acquisition (SCADA) system; assists with adjusting controls and processes, as
necessary, for optimum performance; and assists with ensuring all plant equipment is
maintained in accordance with the O&M manuals.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding collecting and analyzing wastewater, water
treatment and bio-solids samples, treated effluent, sludge, and surface water; assists
with analyzing and evaluating data and making process changes as needed; records
lab results; and updates computer database.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding monitoring and maintaining all treatment
processes within the treatment process chain including includes pump stations,
clarification processes, physical processes, biological processes, chemical feed
processes, solids processing processes, and related equipment, etc.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding monitoring and maintaining the remote transfer
pump station, raw pump station, and storage tanks.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding collecting, compiling, and reviewing
environmental and operational data; assists with preparing and interpreting data used
for daily process control and regulatory reports; and records and archives statistical
data concerning plant operations and plant performance.
• Operates or uses various equipment, power tools, hand tools, and supplies in order to
complete work assignments; operates and maintains SCADA system, aeration
blowers, various pumps and motors, bar screens, grit chambers, clarifiers, odor control
systems, chemical feed systems, forklift, and other tools and equipment.
• Performs other assigned duties.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK

• High school diploma or equivalent; no experience required although some work
experience that shows an ability to maintain steady employment in any field is desired;
or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides
the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
• Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in performance of the essential functions and
learn, comprehend, and apply all CCWA or departmental policies, practices, and
procedures necessary to function effectively in the position.


Required Licenses/Certifications

• Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.
• Must possess and maintain a Georgia Class III Wastewater Operator III License required within 12 months of hire.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as medium work involving
lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects
weighing up to 15 pounds or more.
• Tasks typically involve some combination of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling,
crouching, crawling, and prolonged standing;

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental
conditions, such as dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, rain, fumes,
temperature, noise extremes, hazardous materials, fire, unsafe structures, heights,
confined spaces, machinery, vibrations, electric currents, bright/dim lights, toxic
agents, disease, pathogenic substances, or rude/irate customers.
• Work is performed in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity to change and
responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs.

At CCWA, it is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees, including temporary employees, and applicants for employment based on qualifications, abilities, and merit. Therefore, CCWA prohibits discrimination against employees, applicants or any other legally covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression), citizenship, genetic information, disability status, past, current, or prospective membership in the uniformed services or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to job advertisements, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, benefits, and training.