ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Ecruit

Trainee Operator

Centreville, VA · On-site

$52K - $84K/yr

New hires will work all shifts, transitioning to an assigned shift dependent upon the plant's need after 6 months. The Trainee Operator is trained to perform a wide range of tasks of one section ...

New

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $24/hr

Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science ...

All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Trainee JobsPlant Operator Trainee Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$31.5K

$54.8K

$88.4K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Silver Spring, MD is $54,751.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $61,500.00 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 popular job titles related to Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,856 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Multi-Skilled Wastewater Plant Operator (Trainee)

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$59K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description


IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The Department of Environmental Services (DES) is seeking qualified candidates who are interested in a career as a Multi-Skilled Wastewater Plant Operator (Trainee). This on-the-job training/work program offers both entry-level and experienced operators a career path to the highest level of operator at Arlington County's Water Pollution Control Plant, which is a state-of-the-art, highly automated, and Enhanced Nutrient Removal (ENR) wastewater treatment facility. The program develops and compensates operators for knowledge, expertise, licensure, and work performance. New hires move through a multi-grade and multi-year training program that leads to journey level and possibly beyond.
Responsibilities
Major Job Duties:
  • Independently operating all four Plant stations;
  • Completing training and performing common preventive and minor corrective maintenance on Plant equipment;
  • Participating in and using safety training, both County-sponsored and required by the Occupational Safety and Health Agency (OSHA) and Virginia OSHA; and
  • Demonstrating satisfactory soft skills and abilities (e.g., teamwork, communications, etc.).

The ideal candidate will possess some mechanical aptitude, the initiative and ability to work well independently and with others on a team, the reading comprehension skills to understand complex technical manuals and follow written directions, as well as the writing skills to complete legally required documentation.
The multi-grade plan will reward operators for achieving set goals in a prescribed timeframe. The operator will have two years to obtain the Virginia Class IV Wastewater License and other Plant program specific criteria or he/she will be separated from the County. If an operator successfully meets the specified requirements during the first two years, the operator will then move to the next grade where he/she will serve a one-year probationary period. After successfully completing probation, the operator will gain permanent status.
An operator may move beyond journey level if he/she obtains a Wastewater License Level I, Level I certification in all four Plant stations and Level I in both Preventive Maintenance (PM) and Minor Corrective Maintenance (MCM).
Qualifications
Note: This recruitment is for two (2) full-time vacancies, one day shift and one night shift, but may be used to fill additional vacancies.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma/equivalent;
  • Completion of high school level Algebra; and
  • Completion of high school level Chemistry and/or Biology.

Desirable Qualifications: Preference may be given to applicants with experience in one or more of the following:
  • Associate Degree in engineering, science, or field related to water/wastewater treatment;
  • College courses in an area related to wastewater treatment;
  • A high level of mechanical aptitude along with experience using hand and power tools;
  • Experience in water filtration or wastewater plant operations (military or civilian); and/or
  • Experience using a work order system or maintenance management system.

Special Requirements
Background Check: A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It will include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You will be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.
Driver's License: Applicant must possess, or obtain by time of appointment, a valid driver's license, and must provide or authorize Arlington County to obtain a copy of official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon favorable review of the applicant's driving record.
Health Requirements: Selected applicants will be required to attain physical clearance as part of the pre-employment process.
Professional Licenses/Certifications: Ability to obtain Virginia Wastewater Operator's licenses, and to meet the requirements of the Virginia Confined Entry Standard, including respirator use.
Working Conditions: May be exposed to drafts, noise, dust, grease, and dirt with extended periods of sitting, bending, and lifting light to very heavy objects and equipment, weighing up to 50 pounds, work from ladders, scaffolds and other high places; work outside in inclement weather, in confined spaces, etc. The employee in this position performs duties in all weather-related situations.
Please complete each section of the application including the supplemental questions. Your responses to the supplemental questions are required because they provide us with specific information necessary to evaluate your qualifications for this position. These responses are considered part of the selection process. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please do not write "see resume" as a response to the questions. In accordance with § 19.2-392.15, applicants are not required to provide information regarding sealed arrests, charges, or convictions in response to any questions or inquiries during the hiring process.
Additional Information
Work Hours: All operators are permanently assigned to work with a team on one of four 12-hour shifts. The day shift runs from 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., the night shift from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. During emergency situations plant operators will be required to work after standard shift hours. Night shifts alternate between four days on and four days off. Day shifts alternate on a cycling three/two schedule which allows every other weekend off. This position is classified as essential. Selected candidate must be available for call back, working on call, during weekends, holidays, and emergencies.
New operators will be assigned to shifts based on Plant needs. Night shift operators receive a shift differential. Overtime is paid at time and a half for time outside standard shift, currently about 4 hours of overtime accumulates every two weeks because of the shift overlap period.
Uniforms and cleaning provided.
These positions are part of a multi-grade pay band that encompasses trainees through Senior level. However, experience will be evaluated by the department and applicants with previous related experience, valid licensure, or post high school education may be considered eligible to be hired at a higher pay rate within trainee level.
The salary ranges for each level are as follows:
  • Trainee level: $59,342.40 - $90,604.80 Annually
  • Journey level: $64,272.00 - $98,072.00 Annually
  • Senior level: $75,441.60 - $115,252.80 Annually (only attained after all program requirements have been met and after years of demonstrated performance, usually encompassing a period of several years).

This position is eligible for County government employee benefits that include health, dental, vacation and sick leave, commuter transportation subsidies, tuition reimbursement, as well as a generous retirement plan.
For more information on Arlington County's generous benefits and retirement plan, click here.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.
#LI-Onsite

Apply