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Project Manager Trainee Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

VMI Trainee

Laurel, MD · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Why This Role Matters VMI - Vendor Managed Inventory - is one of the most visible ways Shepherd ... the field, projects stay on track and customers keep calling back. The VMI Trainee is the ...

Why This Role Matters VMI - Vendor Managed Inventory - is one of the most visible ways Shepherd ... the field, projects stay on track and customers keep calling back. The VMI Trainee is the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Project Manager Trainee information

See Washington salary details

$42.5K

$116.7K

$188K

How much do project manager trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for project manager trainee in Washington is $116,685.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,300.00 and $141,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Project Manager Trainee, you need foundational knowledge of project management principles, strong organizational skills, and typically a relevant degree or coursework in business or management. Familiarity with project management software such as Microsoft Project, Trello, or Asana, and any introductory certifications like CAPM are advantageous. Effective communication, attention to detail, and a proactive attitude help you navigate team dynamics and shifting project requirements. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting successful project delivery and building a solid foundation for advancement in project management roles.

How do I get into project manager with no experience?

To become a project manager trainee with no experience, focus on developing relevant skills such as communication, organization, and basic project management tools like MS Project or Trello. Gaining certifications like the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) can also improve your prospects and demonstrate your commitment to the field.

What is a Project Manager Trainee?

A Project Manager Trainee is an entry-level professional who is learning the skills and responsibilities required to manage projects effectively. Under the supervision of experienced project managers, trainees assist with planning, coordinating, and overseeing various project tasks. They learn about budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and communication within a project team. This role is designed to prepare individuals for a full project manager position by providing hands-on experience and mentorship.

What are some typical responsibilities a Project Manager Trainee can expect during their first year?

As a Project Manager Trainee, you'll likely assist with project planning, coordinate tasks among team members, and monitor progress to ensure deadlines are met. You may also be involved in preparing status reports, documenting meeting notes, and supporting risk and issue management. Working closely with experienced project managers, you'll gain hands-on experience in stakeholder communication and resource allocation, helping build a strong foundation for future advancement. Expect to collaborate regularly with cross-functional teams, including engineers, designers, and clients, as you develop your project management skills.

What is the 80/20 rule for project managers?

The 80/20 rule for project managers suggests that roughly 80% of project results come from 20% of efforts or activities. It emphasizes focusing on the most impactful tasks, such as critical path activities and key stakeholder communication, to improve efficiency and project success.

What is the difference between Project Manager Trainee vs Project Coordinator?

AspectProject Manager TraineeProject Coordinator
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in business, management, or related field; some certifications preferredSimilar educational background; often requires organizational or project management certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused, often in office settingsSupport role, coordinating tasks between teams and clients
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in construction, IT, marketing, and various industries as a training positionCommonly employed across industries to assist project teams

The Project Manager Trainee is an entry-level role focused on learning project management skills, often under supervision. The Project Coordinator supports project execution by organizing tasks and communication. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, the trainee position emphasizes training, whereas the coordinator role involves more direct support responsibilities.

What does a project management trainee do?

A project management trainee assists with planning, coordinating, and monitoring projects under the supervision of experienced project managers. They often learn to use project management tools, support team communication, and help ensure project tasks are completed on time and within scope. This role provides foundational experience in project coordination and management processes.

How much does a trainee project manager earn?

A trainee project manager typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and level of education. Entry-level salaries may be lower, but with experience and certifications like PMP, earnings can increase as they gain project management skills and responsibilities.
What are popular job titles related to Project Manager Trainee jobs in Washington? For Project Manager Trainee jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Wastewater Maintenance Technician/Trainee (Industrial Mechanic)

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA • On-site

$47K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

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.
Do you have hands-on experience with engines, pumps, valves, hydraulics, or industrial equipment? If so, we may have the perfect opportunity for you! Arlington County's Department of Environmental Services (DES) is seeking skilled mechanics and maintenance professionals to join the Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP) as Wastewater Maintenance Technician/Trainees (WMT) through a paid apprenticeship program! The WPCP is a state-of-the-art, highly automated advanced wastewater treatment facility capable of treating more than 40 million gallons of wastewater per day. Selected candidates will participate in a structured four-year job training/work apprenticeship program, which offers a career path from Wastewater Maintenance Technician/Trainee to the highest-level Wastewater Maintenance Technician at full performance.
The apprenticeship program includes:
  • Extensive County-paid technical courses and training using the TPC training system, such as wastewater systems overview, safety, CMMS, WEF pump computer, backflow preventer, crane truck/backhoe/skid loader/rigging/overhead crane operation, laser alignment, vibration analysis, root cause failure, oil analysis, and other required trainings;
  • A structural and pipe welding certification and CDL License;
  • Defined expectations of accomplishment at each level or subject to separation from training; and
  • A compensation plan based upon the achievement of new skills through comprehensive testing, certification, and demonstrated application of skills.

Responsibilities
Specific duties include:
  • Inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing industrial mechanical equipment including pumps, blowers, compressors, valves, gearboxes, conveyors, sluice gates, and diesel/gasoline engines using diagnostic tools, blueprints, and factory specifications;
  • Performing horizontal and vertical welding, fabrication, and brazing using acetylene, arc, MIG, and TIG welders on ferrous and nonferrous metals; making precision cuts using band saws and plasma cutters;
  • Evaluating equipment condition and maintenance needs by analyzing age, maintenance history, operational data, and life expectancy to develop project plans for predictive, preventive, and corrective action;
  • Assessing project scope for repair, replacement, and installation work - including resource needs (equipment, personnel, budget) and coordinating or monitoring contractor performance and quality of work; and
  • Operating and maintaining hand and power tools, precision instruments, rigging equipment, and shop machinery including grinders, hydraulic presses, pipe threaders, calipers, and micrometers.

The Full Performance Maintenance Technician is responsible for technical, skilled trades and project management work. This includes installing, maintaining, and renovating complex industrial systems and equipment in the WPCP, along with Water and Sewer Lift Stations maintained, and managed in DES.
The ideal candidate will have experience:
  • Independently diagnosing mechanical problems and determining repair solutions with minimal supervision;
  • Working in fast-paced environments where priorities shift quickly - balancing planned maintenance with emergency response; and
  • Collaborating across trades and work groups to complete projects safely and on schedule.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications: Selected Candidates will be placed at the level commensurate with their education and experience levels (Multiple vacancies)
Wastewater Maintenance Technician Trainee - Apprentice Level 1:
  • High school diploma or GED or the equivalent; and
  • One (1) year of mechanical experience.
  • Licenses/Certifications: None required at hire. Must obtain a valid Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) within the first year of employment.

Wastewater Maintenance Technician Trainee Apprentice Level 2:
  • Completion of Apprentice Level 1 requirements; and
  • One (1) year of experience in wastewater maintenance.
  • Licenses: Forklift certification; First Aid and CPR; IMI WMT I License or equivalent; CDL Class B.

Wastewater Maintenance Technician Trainee Apprentice Level 3:
  • Completion of Apprentice Level 2 requirements; and
  • One (1) additional year of experience in wastewater maintenance.
  • Licenses: Backflow preventer license; IMI WMT II License; CDL Class B; Plate and pipe welding certification.

Wastewater Maintenance Technician (Full Performance Level):
  • Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in mechanical repair or the maintenance of a wastewater treatment facility;
  • Licenses: WMT III or equivalent; Forklift; First Aid/CPR; Plate and Pipe Welding; CDL Class B.

Substitution: A year of directly related technical school training beyond the high school level or a college degree in Engineering or a directly related field may be substituted for one year of the experience requirement.
Desirable Qualifications: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following:
  • Hands-on mechanical repair in automotive, diesel, heavy equipment, manufacturing, or military maintenance settings;
  • Troubleshooting and repairing pumps, motors, hydraulic systems, gearboxes, or engine components;
  • Working in industrial environments with exposure to heavy machinery, confined spaces, and safety protocols;
  • Welding experience (any discipline - MIG, TIG, arc, acetylene); and/or
  • Reading and interpreting blueprints, technical manuals, or equipment schematics.

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.
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL)/Driver's License: Applicant must possess and maintain a valid Class B CDL or must obtain within one year of employment for level 1, and applicant must authorize Arlington County to obtain, or provide a copy of official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon a favorable review of the applicant's driving record. Applicant must consent to Arlington County to obtain from previous employer's information required by DOT agency regulations concerning drug and alcohol testing information. Once hired, the employee will be subject to a Department of Transportation (DOT) drug screening at such times during employment as required by federal, state, and local standards and regulations.
  • Work Environment - Work is performed in an industrial environment and involves exposure to hazardous chemicals, strong odors, drafts, noise, dust, grease, and dirt, including extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and crouching. Incumbent is also required to lift light to very heavy objects and equipment, exerting up to 75 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects, and climb ladders and elevations of 100 feet. This position requires working outside for long periods of time with exposure to adverse weather conditions which includes rain, snow, wind, and temperature extremes.
  • Candidates selected for interview will be required to participate in a work simulation exercise. Candidates must also be able to pass a respirator fit test and work in confined spaces.
  • 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.

Additional Information
Work Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Must be available for holdover and/or call-back in emergency situations.
The Wastewater Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship Program is a multi-grade pay class within the Arlington County Government. The salary listed at the top of the announcement is reflective of the entry at the trainee level to the top of the full performance level. Entry pay and pay progression is based on meeting training, certification, licensing, and experience requirements.
Permanent status with the County is not obtained until completion of training and certification requirements for the full-performance position. All employees in the program must complete all stated requirements within the specified time frames, or they will be subject to separation from County employment.
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.
This position is listed as "open continuous." Interested applicants are advised to submit their application as soon as possible. If your application is received later in the recruitment process, it may not be reviewed or considered. The application process will close when the position has been filled or when a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received.
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