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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

SPRAY TECH

Reno, NV · On-site

$25/hr

... owned & operated. The ideal candidate will be a hard-working and knowledgeable individual who ... trainee Make sure RGL vehicles tanks are filled with water prior to leaving the yard but once away ...

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Nevada salary details

$31.1K

$53.9K

$87.1K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Nevada is $53,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,800.00 and $60,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Plant Operator Trainees?

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, and why are they important?

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 the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in Nevada? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Nevada are:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Nevada? For Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Nevada, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Nevada look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Nevada are:
What cities in Nevada are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Nevada with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Nevada as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,932 per year, or $25.9 per hour.
WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATOR 1 - UNDERFILL

WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATOR 1 - UNDERFILL

State of Nevada (NV)

Carson City, NV • On-site

$56K - $83K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


State Of Nevada rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 50 rated states


Job description

***THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE*** Job Summary The Department of Corrections is seeking to fill a Wastewater Treatment Operator 1 located in Indian Springs. This position will be used to underfill the Wastewater Treatment Operator 2.

Incumbent will perform preventive maintenance on wastewater systems, aerators, grinder, and auger. They will perform duties such as keeping facility neat and clean; preparing lab samples and doing daily testing; daily monitoring and reporting. The Operator will be working with and leading inmate crews and be around inmates of the prison.

Wastewater Treatment Operators perform operations and maintenance tasks in wastewater treatment facilities in accordance with federal, State, and local regulations affecting the treatment and disposal of sewage and wastewater. Essential Qualifications Process and export generated sewage by observing and monitoring all aspects of treatment, pulling samples, performing and analyzing tests, recording and correlating data, adjusting operations accordingly, and introducing chemicals into the system as necessary. Monitor, maintain and repair gravity and force main sewage collection systems including lines, cleanouts, manholes and interceptor, sewage lift stations including wells, pumps (submersible, ejector, centrifugal, diaphragm, positive displacement, and suction), control panels, alarm systems, mains, valves, and ventilation systems in-line comminutors, surge tanks, aeration tanks, filter rooms, chlorine contact tanks, export stations, and decant tanks.

Use a wide variety of tools and test equipment to perform preventive maintenance and diagnose and repair malfunctions including two-way radios, computers and computer programs, wrenches, drills, saws, power washers, grinders and sanders, compressors, portable generators, vacuum truck, four-wheel drive vehicles, loaders, backhoes, snowplows, and snowblowers. Perform and analyze laboratory tests and record the results using scales, ovens, pH meters, dissolved oxygen meters, vacuum pumps, centrifuge, amp probe, tetrameter, microscope, turbidity meter, spectrometer, imhoff cones, and a distiller to determine the amount of suspended solids in the effluent water, for the monitoring of wastewater operations. Operate zero discharge industrial wastewater treatment, operation of used fuel recovery, cleaning and re-blending system, domestic potable water supply and treatment for subsequent irrigation.

Monitor, maintain and repair the potable water supply system including pumps, motors, compressors, tanks, gauges and controls and sample water according to State and county health regulations. Maintain working knowledge of OSHA rules and regulations and workplace safety procedures related to wastewater plant operations, including but not limited to confined space entry, lock-out/tag-out, respiratory protection, blood borne pathogens, and hazardous waste handling, storage, and disposal. Maintain the emergency power supply to ensure sewage processing during power failures as required; monitor and test the alarm and dial out systems for proper operation.

Prepare and submit periodic reports of treatment plant activities to the federal and State Environmental Protection Agencies; prepare purchase orders to maintain adequate supplies; monitor special budget accounts related to the wastewater and water systems; maintain preventive maintenance schedules for plant equipment; maintain required documentation related to hazardous material. Perform related duties as assigned. Under close supervision, incumbents receive training in performing the duties described in the series concept and complete the required coursework for a Grade II, Wastewater Treatment Operator certification.

This is the trainee level in the series and progression to the next level in the series may occur upon attainment of the required certification, meeting minimum qualifications, satisfactory performance, and with the recommendation of the appointing authority. Job Duties Graduation from high school or equivalent education, one year of experience in wastewater treatment plant operation and maintenance, and a Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade I certification issued by the Nevada Wastewater Environment Association; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience as described above to include current certification as a Wastewater Treatment Operator, Grade I. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities This job specification lists the major knowledge, skills and abilities of the job and is not all inclusive.

Incumbent(s) will be expected to have knowledge, skills and abilities from a previous level. General knowledge of: practices, materials, tools, and equipment used in sewage plant operation and maintenance; physical, biological, and chemical aspects of wastewater treatment; principles of operating and maintaining wastewater treatment plants; health and environmental rules and regulations affecting the treatment and disposal of sewage; recordkeeping and reporting requirements of sewage treatment. Ability to: perform basic mathematic computations.

Skill in: the use of hand and power tools and hoists. Recruiter Contact Information: Susan Ashley - q.ashley@admin.nv.gov The State of Nevada is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, domestic partnership, genetic information (GINA), or compensation and/or wages

Please send direct Inquiries or correspondence to the recruiter listed on this announcement.


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About State of Nevada

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Nevada isn't a company in the traditional sense, but rather a governing body that manages and directs the operations of the state of Nevada. Its headquarters are located in Carson City, NV, United States. The organisation is engaged in various sectors like education, transportation, business and industry, health and human services, conservation and natural resources, and many more. It is responsible for implementing and maintaining the law and order of the state, in addition to providing essential services to its residents.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carson City, NV, US

Year founded

1864