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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

As an entry level Operator Trainee, the selected applicant will be required to complete a 39-month ... employment process. To view the practice test, cut and paste the following URL in your browser ...

Operator Trainee

Clover, VA · On-site

$32.04/hr

As an entry level Operator Trainee, the selected applicant will be required to complete a 39-month ... employment process. To view the practice test, cut and paste the following URL in your browser ...

Job Summary Dominion Energy is looking to fill a vacancy for Maintenance Operator Trainee at our ... employment process. To view the practice test, cut and paste the following URL in your browser ...

Facility Operator Trainee Entry Rate: $23.52/hr 12-Month Rate: $24.52/hr 24-Month Rate: $25.52/hr ... Performs routine water quality analysis in accordance with established processes and procedures.

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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 ...

Be Seen First

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 ...

As a trainee, you will work alongside experienced operators to learn how to safely and efficiently ... What You'll Do * Assist with the operation of water treatment processes, including chemical ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 21, 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 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,157 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Operator Trainee

$32.04/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Dominion Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 52 rated energy and utility


Job description

Dominion Energy is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy that powers our customers every day. If you want to work for a purpose-driven company that values safety and collaboration, we're looking for you. You won't just find a job here; you'll find your career. Review the position below and apply today.

Military service members and veterans with ranks from E3-E5, W1-W2, or O1-O3, plus appropriate equivalent combination of education and years of experience as outlined below will be considered for this opportunity. 
At this time, Dominion Energy cannot transfer or sponsor a work visa or employment authorization for this position.

Job Summary

Dominion Energy's Clover Power Station is seeking a motivated Operator Trainee to join this dynamic station! The successful candidates will monitor and ensure the safe and environmentally compliant operation of equipment used in the production of electricity.  As an entry level Operator Trainee, the selected applicant will be required to
complete a 39-month developmental training program comprised of on-the-job training, classroom, computer based and self-study learning, oral and written tests. 
This position is represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 50 

Duties include:
Inspect, operate, and monitor equipment used in the production of electricity
Perform daily routine operations
Perform Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) of equipment for maintenance and valve operations
Perform preventative maintenance and inspections
Make entries into computer-based logbooks
Perform basic troubleshooting of systems
The Operator Trainee works a 12-hour rotating shift, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays. Starting pay is $32.04 per hour. This position does not pay relocation costs.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
  • HS diploma/GED with 0-2 years of experience and a valid driver's license.
  • Ability to monitor and ensure operation of equipment used in the production of electricity is done safely and environmentally compliant.
  • Can safely perform daily routine operations.
  • Ability to perform Lock Out Tag Out of equipment for maintenance and valve operations strongly preferred.
  • Ability to safely perform preventative maintenance and inspections.
  • Basic knowledge of computer systems and use (Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Ability to perform basic troubleshooting of systems.
Education Requirements

Education Required: High School Diploma and/or GED

Licenses, Certifications, or Quals Description
Working Conditions
Other Working Conditions
Test Description
This job requires recommended test results from the EEI Plant Operators Selection System (POSS) aptitude test, administered on site during the pre-employment process. To view the practice test, cut and paste the following URL in your browser, https://careers.dominionenergy.com/content/Pre-Employment-Testing/

Export Control


Certain positions at Dominion Energy may involve access to information and technology subject to export controls under U.S. law.  Compliance with these export controls may result in Dominion Energy limiting its consideration of certain applicants.

What You'll Get

Starting Hourly Rate:

$32.04

At Dominion Energy, we offer excellent plans and programs for employees. Employees are rewarded with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package which includes: health, dental, and vision benefits with coverage for families and domestic partners, vacation, retirement plans including 401k contributions and matches, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, bonus eligibility, sick leave, and disability insurance.   To learn more about our benefits, click here:    dombenefits.com.

Dominion Energy is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin and/or status as a protected veteran or individual with a disability. 

You can experience the excitement of our company - it's the difference between taking a job and starting a career.


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About Dominion Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a leader in the clean energy transition, with a clear strategy to achieve Net Zero carbon and methane emissions. Headquartered in Richmond, VA, we're creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Richmond, VA, US

Year founded

1983

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