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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$21.10 - $26.90/hr

Wastewater Plant Operator - Trainee: $18.77 - $23.93 Wastewater Plant Operator "A": $24.26 - $30.935 Wastewater Plant Operator "B": $22.62 - $28.845 Wastewater Plant Operator "C": $21.10 - $26.90 ...

Asphalt Plant Operator Trainee AMAT Eugene, Oregon, United States Job ID: 523695 RiverBend Materials, a CRH company, is a member of the CRH West Division family, values a culture of growth ...

Must have a general understanding of how the treatment plant works and the SPDES limits associated to the station being operated. Required Certification/Licenses/Training: * Valid NYS Driver ...

Must have a general understanding of how the treatment plant works and the SPDES limits associated to the station being operated. Required Certification/Licenses/Training: * Valid NYS Driver ...

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Plant Operator Trainee information

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$30.5K

$53K

$85.5K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in the United States is $52,962.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $59,500.00 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.

More about Plant Operator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Plant Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Plant Operator Trainee jobs include:

Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee/A/B/C (Iron Bridge)

Cityoforlando

On-site

$21.10 - $26.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Salary Range$21.10-$26.90Job Posting End Date - Applications will no longer be accepted starting05-27-2026Job Summary

Salary:

Wastewater Plant Operator - Trainee: $18.77 - $23.93

Wastewater Plant Operator "A": $24.26 - $30.935

Wastewater Plant Operator "B": $22.62 - $28.845

Wastewater Plant Operator "C": $21.10 - $26.90

This position is at the Iron Bridge facility located at 601 Iron Bridge Circle, Oviedo.

Wastewater Plant Operator - Trainee

Job Description:

This position is the trainee in the Wastewater Plant Operator series in which employees work under the close supervision of a Certified Treatment Plant Chief Operator or supervisor while learning to carry out routine duties in the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Plant and preparing to obtain a Class C Treatment Plant Operator license. Performs other related work as assigned.

Wastewater Plant Operator "A":
Job Description

Under direction, performs advanced skilled work in the efficient operation of a wastewater treatment plant on an assigned shift or rotating shift requiring a Class A operator license. Makes proper adjustments to equipment, machinery operating controls, and related control apparatus in accordance with established procedures and standards. Performs other related work as assigned. Exercises some independent judgment in making adjustments; however, unusual or major problems are reported to a shift supervisor for resolution. This is a safety-sensitive position subject to safety regulations. Work is normally performed under direction of Treatment Plant Operations Shift Supervisor and is reviewed primarily by observation and through the analysis of charts and reports.

Wastewater Plant Operator "B":

Job Description:
Under direction, performs advanced skilled work in the efficient operation of a wastewater treatment plant on an assigned or rotating shift requiring a Class B operator license. Makes proper adjustments to equipment, machinery operating controls, and related control apparatus in accordance with established procedures and standards. Performs other related work as assigned. Exercises some independent judgment in making adjustments; however, unusual or major problems are reported to a shift supervisor for resolution. This is a safety-sensitive position subject to safety regulations. Work is normally performed under direction of Treatment Plant Operations Shift Supervisor and is reviewed primarily by observation and through the analysis of charts and reports.

Wastewater Plant Operator "C":
Job Description:

Under general supervision, performs skilled work in the efficient operation of a wastewater treatment plant on an assigned or rotating shift requiring a Class C operator license. Makes proper adjustments to equipment, machinery operating controls, and related control apparatus in accordance with established procedures and standards. Performs other related work as assigned. Exercises some independent judgment in making adjustments; however, unusual or major problems are reported to the shift supervisor for resolution. This is a safety-sensitive position subject to safety regulations. Work is normally performed under direction of Treatment Plant Operations Shift Supervisor and is reviewed primarily by observation and through the analysis of charts and reports.

Minimum Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Wastewater Plant Operator - Trainee
High School Diploma/G.E.D. Certificate and successful completion of science courses that relate to wastewater treatment, water reclamation, or other related area; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that is approved and demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the duties of this position. Valid Florida Driver's License required. Employees must obtain a Class C Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator license within two (2) years of hire date and are expected to advance to full working level. A one-time extension of six (6) months may be granted based on performance and approval by management and Human Resources. This is a safety-sensitive position subject to safety regulations. Employees in these positions must pass annual respirator physical and any other state mandates. No facial hair allowed between the face and the sealing surface of the respirator face piece.


Minimum Qualifications:
Wastewater Plant Operator "A"

High School diploma or GED; or equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Florida Class A License for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator required. Valid Florida Driver's License required. Must pass annual respirator physical and any other state mandates; no facial hair allowed between the face and the sealing surface of the respirator face piece. Must have a phone or be reachable in the event of an emergency work situation.

Minimum Qualifications:

Wastewater Plant Operator "B"

High School diploma or GED; or equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Florida Class B License for Wastewater

Treatment Plant Operator required. Valid Florida Driver's License required. Must pass annual respirator physical and any other state

mandates; no facial hair allowed between the face and the sealing surface of the respirator face piece. Must have a phone or be reachable in

the event of an emergency work situation

Minimum Qualifications:

Wastewater Plant Operator "C"

High School diploma or GED; or equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Florida Class C License for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator required. Valid Florida Driver's License required. Must pass annual respirator physical and any other state mandates; no facial hair allowed between the face and the sealing surface of the respirator face piece. Must have a phone or be reachable in the event of an emergency work situation

Important: To be eligible to proceed forward in the application process, applicants must meet the minimum qualifications listed in the position description. Please ensure your application provides details of all relevant experience related to the position. If you have questions or need clarification concerning the position or application process, please contact Human Resources at jobs@orlando.gov or 407.246.2062.

If this posting indicates a degree is required, the following experience will apply in lieu of any degree as follows:

  • Two (2) years of direct experience for an associate degree;
  • Four (4) years of direct experience for a bachelor's degree;
  • Six (6) years of direct experience for a master's degree; or
  • Nine (9) years of direct experience for a doctoral degree.