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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

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Sales Management Trainees

Burnet, TX · On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

Lehigh Hanson Aggregates Management Trainee 3.1 3.1 out of 5 stars Location: Burnet, TX 78611 ... will be to Plant Manager with operational supervisory responsibilities as assigned - Ensure ...

Socket.dev

Biological Quality Analyst III

Austin, TX · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

... operating procedures (SOPs), standard test methods (STMs) and specifications, current good ... Includes monitoring the trainee's work schedule (as directed by supervisor or lead) to assure ...

All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Trainee JobsPlant Operator Trainee Jobs in Austin, TX

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Austin, TX salary details

$30.2K

$52.5K

$84.7K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Austin, TX is $52,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $59,000.00 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 Austin, TX?

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Austin, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Austin, TX?

For Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,497 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Wastewater Plant Operations (Trainee, Technician, or Senior)

City of Georgetown

Georgetown, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

City Of Georgetown (Texas) rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

488th of 856 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!
We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.
Under the guidance of a certified Water Services Treatment Plant Technician or Treatment Technician Senior assists in the operation and maintenance of the city's water or wastewater treatment facilities in a safe, effective, and efficient manner. Repairs and maintains treatment plant facilities and equipment. Incumbents in the classification are required to be on-call on a rotating basis and obtain the water/wastewater treatment plant license.
Applicants should submit a resume.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Trainee
Operations & Maintenance:
  • Performs with "D" treatment license operations of the wastewater and irrigation system by starting and stopping system pumps, opening/closing valves, adjusting system operating parameters and performing data collection on plant rounds.
  • Performs with "D" treatment license maintenance and repairs the wastewater treatment and irrigation system by performing preventive or corrective maintenance on motors, pumps, blowers, cranes, piping, valves, and other components.
  • Operates, repairs, and maintains hand tools, power tools, and power equipment.
  • Ensures that all safety requirements are followed.
  • Performs with "D" treatment license routine rounds of the treatment facility to monitor the treatment process, identify the process anomalies or mechanical problems with the equipment
  • Monitor data from SCADA system and computerized control systems, instrument panels and gauges in order to make and basic process changes as directed.
  • Maintain plant operations and maintenance records using log books, database and spreadsheets.
  • Ensures plant processes are always operating within regulated parameters as mandated by state, federal and COG requirements; report out-of-compliance occurrences to Supervisor and or Superintendent.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Technician
  • Operates the wastewater and irrigation system by starting and stopping system pumps, opening/closing valves adjusting system operating parameters and performing data collection on plant rounds.
  • Maintains and repairs the wastewater and irrigation system by performing preventive or corrective maintenance on motors, pumps, blowers, cranes, piping, valves, and other components. Some tasks include; lubrication, changing equipment oil/fluids, installing packing, bearings and seals.
  • Operates, repairs, and maintains hand tools, power tools, power equipment, heavy equipment, and specialized machinery to maintain and repair the wastewater and irrigation systems.
  • Operates complex and sensitive test equipment to troubleshoot and test the wastewater and irrigation system. Maintain treatment facility log books, databases and spread sheets; generates and analyzes trends and reports from historical data.
  • Ensures that all safety requirements are followed.
  • Conducts routine rounds of the treatment facility to monitor treatment process, identify and troubleshoot process, coordinate and resolve anomalies or mechanical problems with equipment
  • Monitor and interpret data from SCADA system and computerized control systems, instrument panels and gauges in order to make and coordinate basic advance process changes under normal and temporary operational conditions.
  • Maintain balance and consistent operation of the plant equipment based on established process control techniques to ensure maximum efficiency of the plant process to ensure regulatory compliance.
  • Make process control decisions under normal operating conditions; conducts tests to determine proper chemical feed rates, calibrate field instruments and make chemical pump rate changes as required.
  • Ensures plant processes are always operating within regulated parameters as mandated by state, federal and City requirements; report out-of-compliance occurrences to the Supervisor and or Superintendent.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Trainee, Technician, or Senior
Employee Development:
  • Participates in the department qualification and training plan.
  • Progress through classroom and on-the-job training required to qualify for appropriate TCEQ wastewater licensure.

Asset Management:
  • Utilize work management system to conduct work activities.

Tools, Equipment and Supplies:
  • Assist the department Supervisor in evaluating material needs and recommend materials, stock levels
  • Ensures department tools and test equipment are properly maintained.
  • Regularly calibrates applicable equipment, tools and test equipment.

General:
  • Attends meetings with industry peers and regulatory agencies to stay on emerging trends and regulations.
  • Provides quality customer service to city staff, the general public and all other contacts.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education, training and Experience Guidelines
High school diploma or equivalent. Six (6) months of experience in a similar work environment such as plant process, plant operations, construction or in the operation of maintenance of mechanical or industrial equipment.
Plant Operations Technician, Trainee
High school diploma or equivalent. Six (6) months of experience in a similar work environment such as plant process, plant operations, construction or in the operation of maintenance of mechanical or industrial equipment.
Plant Operations Technician
High school diploma or equivalent. Plus three (3) years of full-time experience in the work environment such as process, operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facility.
Plant Operations Technician, Senior
High school diploma or equivalent. Plus five (5) years of full-time experience in the work environment such as process control, operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facility.
Certifications and Licenses
Valid Class "C" Texas driver's license required. Out-of-state license holders must have a valid license and provide a three-year driving history.
Plant Operations Technician, Trainee
Wastewater Treatment Operations and Maintenance:
Class "D" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator's license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality within 12 months of hire.
Plant Operations Technician
Wastewater Treatment Operations and Maintenance:
Class "C" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator's license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Plant Operations Technician, Senior
Wastewater Treatment Operations and Maintenance:
Class "B" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator's license from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Hiring Range: $22.31- 37.47 hourly, depending on qualifications and licensure.
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Regular-Full time
If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

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