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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Richmond, VA

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... Performs routine water quality analysis in accordance with established processes and procedures.

Bedford Regional Water Authority

Be Seen First

Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Bedford, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The ... Collect and analyze water samples for regulatory compliance and process control. * Perform routine ...

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All JobsProcess Operator Trainee JobsProcess Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia

Process Operator Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$43.2K

$63K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in Virginia is $43,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,700.00 and $50,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of an operator trainee?

A process operator trainee is responsible for learning how to operate and monitor industrial equipment and systems, often under supervision. They gain skills in safety procedures, equipment operation, and troubleshooting, typically working in manufacturing or processing plants. Training may include classroom instruction and hands-on experience with tools and control systems.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Process Operator Trainee typically does not earn $10,000 a month without experience or advanced certifications. High-paying roles in industries like oil and gas, mining, or chemical processing may reach that level for experienced operators with specialized skills and certifications, but entry-level trainees usually earn lower wages. Achieving such income generally requires years of experience, technical training, and sometimes union membership or licensing.

What is the difference between Process Operator Trainee vs Process Operator?

AspectProcess Operator TraineeProcess Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; additional certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning phaseFull-time, operational environment, responsible for daily processes
Employer UsageEntry-level position for training purposesFull-fledged role managing production processes

The Process Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience under supervision, while the Process Operator is a fully responsible role managing daily operations. Trainees typically undergo training before becoming Process Operators, making the roles sequential in career development.

What are some common challenges Process Operator Trainees may encounter during their training period?

Process Operator Trainees often face challenges such as adapting to shift work schedules, learning complex control systems, and understanding safety protocols in industrial environments. The steep learning curve can be daunting, especially when troubleshooting equipment or responding to unexpected process deviations. However, trainees are typically supported by experienced mentors and structured training programs to help them build confidence and competence over time.

What are Process Operator Trainees?

Process Operator Trainees are entry-level employees who learn how to monitor, control, and maintain equipment and systems in industries such as manufacturing, chemical processing, or energy production. They work under the supervision of experienced operators to gain hands-on experience with safety protocols, machinery operation, and troubleshooting. The goal is to prepare them for full Process Operator roles, where they ensure the smooth and safe running of industrial processes.

How to become a process operator with no experience?

To become a process operator trainee with no experience, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should demonstrate basic technical skills and a willingness to learn. Employers often provide on-the-job training and may require certifications such as OSHA safety training or process technology courses. Gaining familiarity with industrial equipment and safety procedures can improve chances of entry into the role.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay around $2,000 a day typically include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, high-level consultants, and skilled trades like commercial pilots or oil and gas process operators. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-demand industries with premium compensation structures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Process Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Process Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification in a relevant field. Familiarity with process control systems, safety protocols, and equipment monitoring tools is important, often gained through on-the-job training or programs like OSHA certification. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help trainees excel and adapt to dynamic plant environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of industrial facilities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Process Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Process Operator Trainee job openings:
Process Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 75% Full Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,157 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Facility Operator Trainee

Facility Operator Trainee

Essential Utilities, Inc.

Winchester, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Aqua, an Essential Utilities company, employs people in a variety of roles within our eight-state footprint, ranging from field workers and customer service representatives who are on the front lines working with customers, to scientists and engineers who help ensure we're delivering reliable water and wastewater services to our communities. If you're looking for a rewarding career helping improve our environment and protect our natural resources, we encourage you to join our team!
About Essential Utilities
Essential Utilities, Inc. delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities.
Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status - including a competitive and comprehensive benefits package as well as a commitment to career growth opportunities.
We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.
Our company is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES: (Primary Duties and Responsibilities)
  • Maintains equipment at the assigned water production facilities and booster stations.
  • Operates and maintains distribution systems including mains, valves, hydrants and service lines.
  • Maintains equipment at the wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations.
  • Operates and maintains sewer collection systems including collections mains and pump stations.
  • Troubleshoots and repairs service piping and other related equipment .
  • Performs routine water quality analysis in accordance with established processes and procedures.
  • Makes operational adjustments as needed to comply with state and federal water quality standards.
  • Adjusts chemical treatment to ensure water quality meets standards. Calculates various ratios and dosages.
  • Completes customer service work orders, updates and maintains appropriate system documentation of activities and closes work orders in accordance with department policies and procedures.
  • Performs all tasks safely, professionally and in accordance with company policies and procedures as well as local, state and federal laws, rules and guidelines.
  • Assists with other tasks or projects as assigned

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function(s).
QUALIFICATIONS (Required Experience, Education, Licenses, and Certifications)
  • A high school diploma or GED.
  • No previous experience required.
  • A valid U.S. Driver's License.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Familiarity with computers / tablets and the basic operation of database, spreadsheet and word processing programs preferred
  • Ability to read, understand and accurately follow operating instructions both written and verbal
  • Mathematical ability to perform calculations to determine various ratios, dosages, volumetric calculations that are required for the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Plants and Water Treatment Plants
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate in writing
  • Familiarity with and understanding of the need to prevent wastewater pollution of area waters
  • Understand and maintain plan processes through computer-controlled equipment
  • A team player able to work effectively in a team fostered multi-tasking environment

Career Progression Schedule:
FO Trainee -
  • Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 months of employment.

FO I -
  • Minimum license requirement of C Well or Grade I.

FO II -
  • Must meet dual licensing requirements and have either a B Well or a Grade II.

FO III -
  • Must meet dual licensing requirements of at least a B Well and Grade II plus have an A Well or Grade III.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • May be subject to extreme temperatures, noise, wet and/or humid conditions, mechanical, electrical, gas exposure hazards, fumes, dusts, mists, gases and /or poor ventilation atmospheric conditions.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
  • Working conditions include travel to work sites of Essential Utilities and/or other constituents.
  • Must obtain a CDL Class C with Hazmat endorsement within 90 days of hire
  • Must be available to be on-call nights and on weekends to adequately staff a 24 hour/7day operation

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Aqua, an Essential Utilities company is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. Equal employment opportunity is provided to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to the following legally protected characteristics: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions, including medical conditions related to lactation), physical or mental disability, covered-veteran status, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state or federal law.
Aqua is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you have a condition that may prevent you from applying for a job online or need to request an accommodation during the interview process, please call (1-877-271-9012).
To maintain the integrity of the recruitment process and to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest due to employment and/or assignment of family members and personal referrals, specific guidelines apply to the hiring and assignment of these individuals including, but not limited to:
  • Family members cannot result in a supervisor/subordinate reporting relationship
  • Family members cannot work in the same department.

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