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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

QC Tech IV

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Point of contact for plant and QC/QA management. Ensures that the lab runs smoothly and all ... Frequent interactions with operators, engineers, and Quality management for reporting routine ...

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$29.6K

$51.5K

$83.1K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Raleigh, NC is $51,481.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,800.00 and $57,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:
Plant Operations Specialist (Without Certification)

Plant Operations Specialist (Without Certification)

City of Durham

Durham, NC

$46.76K - $72.57K/yr

Other

Posted 24 days ago


City Of Durham (North Carolina) rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 638 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Description Work, Serve, Thrive. With the City of Durham Advance in your career while making a real difference in the community you serve. Hiring Range: $46,762.00-$51,574.00 Work Day/Hours: 3rd Shift: 11P.M

- 7A.M., Monday - Friday More than 300 talented, dedicated employees in the City of Durham's Water Management Department work to keep safe drinking water flowing throughout the City and manage wastewater effectively. We lead long-term water and wastewater planning and infrastructure development, regularly treat and test systems for environmental compliance, and engage the public in water conservation to ensure all of our customers have clean, safe water every time they turn on the tap. If you share our passion for managing vital water resources, bring your skills and talent to Durham

Water Management seeks a water plant operator who will be primarily located at the Brown Water Treatment Plant. This job is subject to recall for weather related emergencies. Operators are responsible for plant operations surrounding the treatment of water for the citizens of Durham.

This includes operating, adjusting, and maintaining equipment, keeping detailed and accurate records, obeying plant procedures, monitoring operations, cleaning equipment, analyzing samples while practicing safety precautions at all times. You will also be responsible for elevated and ground storage tanks, and 3 pressure zones including the associated pump and storage facilities. This is a trainee position.

Once certification is obtained, you will receive a promotion. Certification must be obtained within one year after employment has started. Duties/Responsibilities Assists with operating, adjusting, and maintaining equipment at an assigned water or wastewater facility; monitors physical plant operations by observing plant processes; monitors chemical feeds; collects and analyzes lab samples under close supervision; and complies with work safety rules and procedures.

Cleans and performs minor repairs on plant equipment; cleans assigned work areas; and receives and unloads chemicals. Maintains records, logs, databases, documentation and online systems; enters and updates data to document maintenance; reviews and proofs records to ensure accuracy and completeness. Minimum Qualifications & Experience High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED, HiSET, TASC) Six months of related experience (including internships and/or vocational education in water/wastewater treatment).

Must have a valid, unrestricted, North Carolina driver's license "or" if you currently have another state driver's license, must be willing and able to obtain a valid NC driver's license within 60 days of hire Basic math & chemistry calculations to accurately read meters & charts, maintain required records, & interpret readings to make necessary adjustments to treatment processes Make mixed arithmetic calculations involving multiplication, addition, subtraction, & division of whole numbers, decimals, & fractions Must obtain NC Grade C Surface Water Treatment Certification within 1 year of hire Additional Preferred Skills OSHA: Confined Space, Lock Out/Tag Out, Blood-borne Pathogens, and more


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