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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Industrial Electrician

Norcross, GA · On-site

$25 - $32.25/hr

... trainee in the installation, maintenance, and repair of wiring systems and other electrical or ... plant operations. Critical Competencies Equipment Operation - Proficiency in operating large ...

Industrial Electrician

Norcross, GA · On-site

$24.75 - $31.75/hr

... trainee in the installation, maintenance, and repair of wiring systems and other electrical or ... the plant operations. Critical Competencies • Equipment Operation - Proficiency in operating ...

... plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

... plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

... plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

... plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

... plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

... plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

... plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

Showing results 41-60

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 13, 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.

Water/Wastewater Technician I, II, III, IV (Ostara)

Gwinnett County, GA

Lawrenceville, GA • On-site

$57K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Gwinnett County, GA
Job Type: Full-Time Merit
Job Number: 26-03966
Department: Department of Water Resources
Opening Date: 07/24/2026
Closing Date: 8/23/2026 12:00 AM Eastern
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Class Summary
Job Description
The Wastewater Technician is responsible for performing technical work at the F. Wayne Hill Water Resources Center.
The schedule for this position is Monday through Friday, 7:00am to 4:00pm, and may require overtime and weekend work on occasion.
Essential Duties
  • Ostara - Nutrient Recovery Building
  • FOG receiving and sampling
  • Gas to Energy Generator Operations
  • New Bio-Dryer Operations (coming online in 2028

Level I - This class is responsible for assisting other water staff with various operator duties. This is the trainee level class and duties are clearly defined.
Annual Salary: $43,336 Grade A12(3)
Level I Minimum Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED;
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Must obtain certification as Water/WW Operator within one year.

Level II - This class is responsible for performing technical, independent work in the area of water treatment. This class may serve as lead to lower-level classes.
Annual Salary: $49,000 - $78,399 Grade B22(3)
Level II Minimum Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED;
  • Three (3) months water plant experience;
  • Georgia Class III certification/license in water;
  • Valid driver's license.

Level III - This class is responsible for performing highly technical work in the area of water treatment. This class works independently and serves as lead to lower-level staff. This job is a safety sensitive position that will require a pre-employment drug test and subsequent random drug and alcohol testing in accordance with Gwinnett County Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace.
Annual Salary: $53,286 - $85,258 Grade B23(3)
Level III Minimum Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED;
  • Two years of water treatment or wastewater experience
  • or, BS Degree in a related field or a current Class I certificate in another category and one year of water treatment or wastewater experience
  • or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
  • Georgia Class III certification/license in water;
  • Valid driver's license.

Level IV - This class is responsible for serving as a lead worker in the water treatment plant; assigning and monitoring work; and providing training as needed. This job is a safety sensitive position that will require a pre-employment drug test and subsequent random drug and alcohol testing in accordance with Gwinnett County Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace.
Annual Salary: $57,950- $92,719 Grade B24(3)
Level IV Minimum Requirements:
  • High School Diploma, or G.E.D.,
  • Three years of water experience
  • or a BS Degree in a related field or a current Class I certificate in another category and two years of water experience;
  • or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
  • Georgia Class I certification/license in water (this will be mandatory for promotion to Water Shift Supervisor classification).
Valid driver's license.
Other Job Requirements/Information
  • This job is a safety sensitive position that will require a pre-employment drug test and subsequent random drug and alcohol testing.
  • This job may require on-call rotation and emergency after hours, weekends, and/or holidays.
Effective 4/11/2023, this position is eligible for the Employee Referral Program.For information related to position-specific essential duties, knowledge and skills, and physical requirements, please click below.
Level I
Level II
Level III
Level IVNote: The class specifications listed on this website are not the official class specifications for Gwinnett County and are subject to change.
For more information about this department, please
Additional Information
About Gwinnett County
Welcome to Gwinnett County Government
Gwinnett County Government is an award-winning employer that believes in investing in its employees by providing corporate level benefits, a wellness program, professional development opportunities, career advancement, and more
Careers with impact
Gwinnett County sets the standard as a dynamic, vibrant community where all people can enjoy economic opportunities, safe neighborhoods, plentiful greenspace, and recreational facilities. We are committed to hiring those who share our dedication to making life better for our residents and business owners. The culture of superior service that our employees have created reflects that standard and helps staff, residents, and stakeholders remain vibrantly connected.
Exceptional benefits
Working for Gwinnett County comes with exceptional benefits, including health coverage, a robust wellness program (Spouses can participate, too!), onsite employee wellness center, longevity pay, tuition reimbursement, and more. The value of Gwinnett County benefits can be up to 49 percent of an individual's total compensation.
World-class community
More than a million residents make up Gwinnett's diverse community. The County is located just 45 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and 30 minutes from downtown Atlanta. Georgia Highway 316 reduces travel time to the University of Georgia to 25 minutes.
Gwinnett County is an award-winning employer!
  • Atlanta's Healthiest Employer by Atlanta Business Chronicle
  • Green Communities Platinum Certification for Gwinnett County from the Atlanta Regional Commission
  • Top 100 Healthiest Workplaces in America by Springbuk and PR NewsWire and more!

Vision
Gwinnett is the preferred community where everyone thrives!
Mission
Gwinnett proudly supports our vibrantly connected community by delivering superior services.
Values
Integrity: We believe in being honest, building trust, and having strong moral principles.
Accountability: We believe in stewardship, transparency, and sustainability.
Equity: We believe in fairness and respect for all.
Inclusivity: We believe in engaging, embracing, and unifying our communities.
Innovation: We believe in continual adaptation of technology, process, and experience.
Hiring Process
Gwinnett County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information regarding our hiring process, please click the links below:
Gwinnett County is committed to creating a diverse workforce. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we prohibit discrimination on the basis of genetic information (including sex), race, color, national origin (including ancestry), gender (identity and expression), sexual orientation, age, marital status, familial status (including pregnancy), disability, military or veteran status, religion, political affiliation, immigration status, homeless status, or any other category protected by law.
Reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities may be requested. If you need an accommodation during the application, interview, or testing process, contact Human Resources at 770.822.7915 or HREmployeeRelations@GwinnettCounty.com. This email is only for accommodation requests; for questions related to job postings, use jobs@gwinnettcounty.com.
Our Benefits program is designed to support every aspect of our employees' lives, from physical and emotional to social and financial.
Along with their salary, employees receive a variety of comprehensive benefits as part of their total compensation.
On average, our employees' benefits are worth 48 percent of their base salary!
In other words, employees would spend nearly half of their pay to purchase these benefits on their own. For employees' medical premium alone, the County contributes an average of 91 percent of the cost!
Health
  • Medical plans for active and retired employees
  • Dental and vision plans
  • Prescription drug plan

Wellness
  • Onsite Employee Wellness Center
  • 24/7 Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Immunizations
  • Wellness education and incentive programs
  • Annual wellness fair

Family and Career
  • Training and professional development opportunities
  • Family planning benefits
  • Four weeks of paid parental leave

Time
  • Annual/Sick Leave
  • 12 paid holidays per calendar year
  • 1 paid floating holiday per calendar year

Money
  • Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care
  • Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) available
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) available
  • Retirement and Savings Plans
  • 401(a) Defined Contribution
  • 457 (b) Deferred Compensation
  • Longevity pay
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Financial education programs

Protection
  • Basic, optional, and dependent life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • Critical illness and accident insurance
  • Hospital indemnity insurance
  • Identity theft protection

To learn more about the Benefits offered at Gwinnett County, click here.
01
Please select the Georgia water certification that you hold from the list below.
  • No current certification
  • Class III certification/license in water/wastewater
  • Class II certification/license in water/wastewater
  • Class I certification/license in water/wastewater

02
Do you have any wastewater plant experience?
  • Yes
  • No

03
If you responded yes to question #2, please describe your experience. If no, please type N/A.
04
Do you have any experience operating the Ostara Nutrient Recovery Process?
  • Yes
  • No

05
If you responded yes to Question #4, please describe your experience. If no, please type N/A.
06
Do you have any experience working with a Rotary Drum Dryer?
  • Yes
  • No

07
If you responded yes to Question #6, please describe your experience. If no, please type N/A.
Required Question