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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Veolia

Plant Operator Trainee

Wantagh, NY

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 ...

Veolia

Plant Operator Trainee

Wantagh, NY

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 Jun 22, 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.

How much do plant operators make?

Plant operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in facilities with shift work or hazardous environments.

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 does an operator trainee do?

A plant operator trainee learns to operate and monitor industrial equipment and systems, such as pumps, valves, and control panels, under supervision. They gain skills in safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and process control, often working in manufacturing, power plants, or water treatment facilities. Training typically includes hands-on experience and may require certification or licensing upon completion.

How hard is it to become a plant operator?

Becoming a plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical coursework. The role often involves learning to operate and monitor equipment, and some positions may require certifications or licenses, which can involve passing exams and gaining experience. The difficulty varies depending on the individual's background and the specific plant's requirements.

What is the highest salary for a plant operator?

The highest salaries for plant operator trainees can reach around $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries such as power plants or manufacturing facilities. Advanced certifications and overtime work can also contribute to higher earnings.

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.
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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:
What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Trainee jobs are:
Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,962 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

City of Sanibel, FL

Sanibel, FL • On-site

$41K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Salary : $41,155.09 - $60,556.70 Annually
Location : Donax Wastewater Plant, 930 Donax Street, Sanibel, FL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 1844
Department: Public Works Department
Division: Utilities Wastewater
Opening Date: 04/08/2026
Description
Under the direct supervision of the Chief Wastewater Plant Operator, serves in an entry level training position involved in assisting in the operation and maintenance of wastewater plant facilities according to federal, state, and local regulations and established procedures. Duties include record keeping, analysis, testing and maintenance activities associated with the operation of wastewater treatment facilities, which must be accomplished in an accurate, timely and complete fashion. The employee learns and performs similar tasks as a Wastewater Plant Operator I, II, and III while under the close supervision and instruction of a Class C certified wastewater operator, or higher. Once skill and competency are shown in the performance of technical tasks and ability to meet, at a minimum, the requirements for a Florida Class "C" Wastewater Operator's License are demonstrated and such license is obtained, the employee will be promoted to the Wastewater I Plant Operator position.
Duties
The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.
Operates and regulates the collection, treatment, and disposal of wastewater in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations and established procedures. Performs duties under close supervision in a learning capacity.
Assists with performing remote monitoring and control of processes and equipment utilizing Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computer systems.
Takes and charts all necessary readings. Takes control samples and runs tests. Makes all chemical and pressure adjustments necessary based on readings and according to specified guidelines applicable to the proper operation of wastewater plants.
Records daily operation of pumps, including pressure, flow readings, pump hours, chlorine usage and levels, and pump function; takes corrective action as required. Operates and maintains wastewater collection system pump stations and infrastructure.
Prepares D.E.P. reports regarding overall operation of wastewater plant as required.
Prepares daily operating sheet, the daily operating summary, the shift changeover sheet, and daily maintenance sheet. Periodically reads flow meters, gauges, and dials and records data for reports. Prepares and maintains records of all repairs and adjustments made to wastewater facilities and equipment.
Runs qualitative analysis on wastewater and corrects chemical settings. Performs process control calculations and interprets data. Takes samples and prepares them for testing to ascertain quality of treatment. Collects specimen samples and performs routine laboratory tests. Records results according to prescribed state guidelines.
Inspects, cleans, and monitors the functioning of mechanical equipment. Pumps sludge and hoses down sludge tanks. Rakes bar screens. Pumps down, back flushes and hoses tankage and equipment. Cleans lines and pipes.
Participates in routine maintenance work and repair functions for pumps, tanks, aerators, filters, motors, pulleys, drive belts, solids and chemical handling facilities, and all related wastewater facilities and equipment. Performs maintenance, repair and cleanup of buildings and grounds as needed.
Participates in routine operations and maintenance of the wastewater collection and conveyance system and the reclaimed water distribution system.
Responds to customer inquiries and complaints, providing information or directing to appropriate personnel.
Follows OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations.
Provides supervisor with timely accurate records concerning treatment plant activities and conditions as directed.
May be required to operate a motor vehicle in performance of assigned tasks.
Abides by all federal, state, and local safety rules and regulations.
Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned that are consistent with the scope, purpose, and level of responsibility of the position. Such duties may vary based on operational needs but will align with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee.
Remains available for emergency situations on an on-call basis.
Required Education, Experience, License, Registration, and Certification Qualifications
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or GED
  • No experience required
  • Preferred candidate will have education in computer science, electronics, math, chemistry or biology, and training or work experience in the operation or maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License, or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
  • Must acquire a State of Florida Class "C" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification within 18 months of hire, as a condition of continued employment.

Supplemental or Additional Information
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Knowledge of wastewater treatment facilities operations and maintenance.
Knowledge of related laboratory operations and procedures.
Knowledge of basic mathematical principles and basic measurements.
Knowledge of occupational safety rules and practices.
Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations in wastewater treatment and disposal.
Ability to learn Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition SCADA, instrument calibration, process control, microbiology; and mechanical, electrical, and chemical processes.
Ability to read a variety of technical materials relevant to wastewater regulatory practices and technical aspects of wastewater operations and maintenance.
Ability to prepare and maintain accurate reports and records.
Ability to work effectively with other employees and the public.
Ability to follow complex oral and written directions.
Ability to work shift assignments or to be on call to respond to emergencies.
Ability to work in all weather conditions.
Skill in operating and maintaining equipment involved in wastewater treatment and disposal.
Skill in basic mechanics and data conception.
Skill in problem solving, troubleshooting, and record keeping.
Benefits for full-time employees include:
  • Health insurance and subsidy for family and spouse coverage
  • Dental insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
  • Retirement plan
  • 457 Deferred compensation plan
  • Retirement Health Savings Plan
  • Roth IRA
  • Vacation, medical and personal leave
  • Blood donation leave program
  • 10 paid holidays
  • Beach parking sticker at resident rate
  • Reimbursement of co-pays for annual physical and cancer screenings
  • Paid Family Membership to Sanibel Recreation Center
  • Unlimited Sanibel Causeway transponder
  • Cape Coral bridges transponder, if applicable

01
Do you have any education in computer science, electronics, math, chemistry or biology?
  • Yes
  • No
  • I have a higher degree

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