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System Operator Trainee Jobs in Ashburn, VA (NOW HIRING)

Operations Manager Trainee

Springfield, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

Operations Manager Trainee

Springfield, VA · On-site

$27.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

AMP Financial Advisor Trainee - Vienna, VA

Vienna, VA · On-site

$42K - $52K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Trainee will balance new client development, sales activities, investment management, customer ... Operating client relationship manager system and other required software applications to produce ...

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII ... May conduct detailed experimental testing OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS: * This position ...

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII ... May conduct detailed experimental testing OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS: * This position ...

TEMPEST Engineer Trainee

Ashburn, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Modifies sub assemblies, final assemblies and systems per engineering drawings and CTPII ... May conduct detailed experimental testing OPERATING HOURS AND EXPECTATIONS: * This position ...

Operations Manager Trainee

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$29.25 - $39.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

Operations Manager Trainee

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$27.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

Operations Manager Trainee

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$27.75 - $38.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

Operations Manager Trainee

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$29.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

Operations Manager Trainee

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$29.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

Operations Manager Trainee

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$30.50 - $42.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

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Showing results 1-20

System Operator Trainee information

See Ashburn, VA salary details

$14

$28

$45

How much do system operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator trainee in Ashburn, VA is $28.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.57 and $28.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a system operator trainee?

System operator trainees are entry-level professionals who are undergoing training to manage and monitor the operations of systems such as electrical power grids, water treatment plants, or other critical infrastructure. They work under the supervision of experienced operators, learning how to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of these systems. Their responsibilities typically include observing control panels, responding to alarms, recording data, and assisting with routine maintenance. The goal of the training is to prepare them for full operator roles by providing both hands-on experience and classroom instruction.

What are some common challenges faced by system operator trainees in their first year on the job?

As a System Operator Trainee, one of the main challenges is mastering complex monitoring systems and learning to respond quickly and accurately to real-time changes in the power grid. Trainees must also adapt to rotating shift schedules, which can impact work-life balance. Collaborating with experienced operators and staying updated on protocols is key, as the role involves both independent decision-making and close teamwork under pressure. Building confidence in handling emergency scenarios and communicating effectively with field crews are also essential skills developed during the first year.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a system operator trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a System Operator Trainee, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, power grid fundamentals, and typically an associate’s degree in electrical engineering technology or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and NERC certification is often required or preferred. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help trainees excel in high-pressure, team-oriented environments. These competencies are crucial for maintaining grid reliability, ensuring safety, and responding rapidly to system disturbances.

What is the difference between System Operator Trainee vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectSystem Operator TraineePower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, training facilitiesPower plant facilities, control rooms
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, energy companies, training programsPower generation plants, energy sector
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a System Operator Trainee is in a training phase, learning to monitor and control systems, while a Power Plant Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for operating power plant equipment. The trainee role focuses on gaining experience, whereas the power plant operator role involves hands-on operational duties.

What does a system operator do?

A system operator monitors and controls industrial, electrical, or computer systems to ensure they run efficiently and safely. They troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and may use specialized software or equipment to manage system operations, often working in shifts or 24/7 environments.

What cities near Ashburn, VA are hiring for System Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Ashburn, VA with the most System Operator Trainee job openings:

Water Treatment Plant Operator: Trainee, I or II

Town of Leesburg, VA

Leesburg, VA • On-site

$53K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 hours ago


Job description

Salary: $53,570.00 - $116,738.00 Annually
Location : 43234 Edwards Ferry Road Leesburg, VA
Job Type: RFT
Job Number: 01303
Department: Utilities Department
Division: Water Supply Facility
Opening Date: 07/21/2026
About the Town of Leesburg and Nature of Work
Do you want to apply your expertise for a cause you can feel good about? Do you want to work for an organization that wants you to grow with it and offers tuition reimbursement, certification training, and a chance to learn about multiple industries? Come work for the Town of Leesburg, hometown of the 21st century! Located 35 miles west of the nation's capital in the heart of DC's Wine Country, you'll enjoy a vibrant and authentic community with "big city" amenities. The Town of Leesburg strongly encourages innovation, promotes career development, and offers excellent benefits to employees. Benefits include membership to the Town's full-service recreation center, enrollment into the Virginia Retirement System, excellent healthcare insurance, and other fringe benefits.
What You'll Be Doing
This position involves entry level through journey-level technical work opportunities in the Water Supply Division in the operation; and maintenance of a water treatment plant, associated facilities and plant grounds. Work involves responsibility for the operation, monitoring, and control of the facility on a shift under the close guidance of senior operations personnel. Work involves conducting tests in a microbiology lab; adjusting treatment processes to ensure conformance with applicable standards; operating wells, storage tanks and booster stations; participating in the maintenance of equipment and facilities; performing data entry on a computer; and preparing operating reports and records. The Water Supply Division is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the Town's Kenneth B. Rollins Water Treatment Plant (WTP), one well, five water storage tanks, and four water booster stations.
Schedule
This position requires working rotating shifts (days/nights), including weekends and holidays.
Career Development Program
The Town's Water Supply Division offers a career development program. The purpose of this program is to recognize and compensate those individuals who have acquired additional or advanced work-related knowledge, skills and abilities during their career with the Town's Utilities Department. This program provides a career development plan based on an employee's performance, training, licensure and length of service.
For more detailed job descriptions, please visit the Town's
Required Qualifications
Utility Plant Operator Trainee ($53,570-$116,738 DOQ): HS/GED. Ability to obtain a Class IV Water Works Operator License for Water Supply within 18 months. Ability to obtain a Class III Water Works Operators License for Water Supply. Possession of a valid driver's license and a safe driving record. Certifications in CPR/AED and First Aid or ability to obtain within one year of employment. Knowledge in MS Suite applications and computer program applications appropriate to the position. Available and able to work shifts (nights, weekends and holidays).
Utility Plant Operator I ($54,601-$118,938 DOQ): High school diploma (or GED) and one year of experience operating a water or wastewater treatment
plant facility. Possession of a current Class III Water Works Operator License for Water Supply as issued by Virginia Department of Professional & Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Water or environmental laboratory experience. Possession of a valid driver's license and a safe driving record. CPR / AED First Aid certification or ability to obtain within one year of employment. Knowledge and familiarity with Virginia Waterworks Regulations. Knowledge in MS Suite applications and computer program applications appropriate to the position. Available to work shifts (nights, weekends and holidays).
Utility Plant Operator II ($57,331-$127,295 DOQ): HS/GED and two years of progressively responsible work in water treatment. Water or environmental laboratory experience. Possession of a Class II Water Works Operator License as issued by the Virginia Department of Professional & Occupational Regulation (DPOR). CPR/AED First Aid certification or within one year of hire. Possession of a valid driver's license and a safe driving record. Experience with industrial computer control systems (SCDA) and process control system. Available to work shifts ( nights, weekends and holidays).
Preferred Qualifications
Utility Plant Operator Trainee: Class IV License Water Works Operator License issued by the Virginia Department of Professional & Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Water or environmental laboratory experience.
Utility Plant Operator I: Backflow device certification. Experience with SCADA and Process Control Systems. Completion of VDH/VWEA Operators Short School - Virginia Tech.
Utility Plant Operator II: Backflow device certification. Associates or Bachelors degree in Biology, Chemistry or other related science. Bacteriology Laboratory Experience.
Employee BenefitsThe Town offers competitive compensation, affordable health insurance coverage, participation in the Virginia Retirement System, an optional 457(b) retirement plan with a Town matching contribution, flexible spending accounts, voluntary benefits, employee assistance program (EAP), membership to the Town's full-service recreation center, an optional payroll Roth IRA, and generous paid time off. For more information on the Town's robust benefits package, please visit the Town'sEmployee Benefits page.
EOE/ADA
Please click on "Employee Benefits" to review detailed information regarding employee benefits for regular full-time and regular part-time employees.