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Trainee Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

HII

$53K - $55K/yr

... developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. We ... The Painter Trainee program is offered at Tidewater Community College (Portsmouth, VA). This ...

MasTec Inc

Fiber Splicer Trainee

Sterling, VA · On-site

$24/hr

We are experts in cell tower construction, RF engineering, broadband fiber optic cable installation ... Responsibilities After completion of training, Fiber Splicer Trainees will have a working knowledge ...

HII

$59K - $62K/yr

SHIPFITTER TRAINEE OR CERTIFICATION - FOR 2026 HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS OR GRADUATES - SIGN-ON BONUS ... developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. We ...

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All JobsEngineering JobsTrainee Engineering JobsTrainee Engineering Jobs in Virginia

Trainee Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$43.2K

$63K

How much do trainee engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee engineering 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 are Trainee Engineers?

Trainee Engineers are entry-level professionals who have recently graduated in engineering or a related field and are undergoing practical training within an organization. Their primary role is to learn about engineering processes, tools, and company protocols while working under the supervision of experienced engineers. This period helps them build technical skills, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for more advanced engineering roles within the company. Trainee Engineers often participate in projects, assist with research and development, and may rotate between different departments to broaden their understanding. The training typically lasts from several months to a couple of years, depending on the organization's structure and the complexity of the field.

What are some common challenges faced by Trainee Engineers during their initial months, and how can they overcome them?

Trainee Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new technologies, understanding complex project requirements, and managing time effectively while balancing training with real-world assignments. It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking guidance from mentors, actively participating in team meetings, and regularly reviewing technical materials can help accelerate learning. Building good communication with colleagues and asking questions when unsure are also crucial steps in overcoming these early hurdles and establishing a strong foundation for future growth.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Engineer, you generally need a relevant engineering degree or diploma, strong analytical abilities, and a foundational understanding of engineering principles. Familiarity with industry-specific software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, and an eagerness to learn on-the-job tools and safety protocols are typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate effectively and adapt to new challenges. These competencies are crucial for building technical expertise, ensuring safety, and progressing successfully in an engineering career.

What is the difference between Trainee Engineering vs Junior Engineering?

AspectTrainee EngineeringJunior Engineering
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recently completed relevant educationCompleted degree or diploma in engineering
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised tasksIndependent project work, ongoing responsibilities
Employer UsageEntry-level training positions in engineering firmsEntry-level engineering roles with some responsibilities
Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level career pathsCompared as a step after trainee roles

In summary, Trainee Engineering positions are designed for individuals gaining initial industry experience, often during or immediately after education. Junior Engineering roles typically require some completed education and involve more independent work, serving as a stepping stone in an engineering career.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Engineering jobs in Virginia? For Trainee Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Trainee Engineering jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Trainee Engineering job openings:
Trainee Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Engineering job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% 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.

Richmond, VA • On-site

$38.11/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 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.
Career Progression & Pay Ranges:
Facility Operator Trainee
Entry Rate: $23.52/hr
12-Month Rate: $24.52/hr
24-Month Rate: $25.52/hr
Facility Operator I
Entry Rate: $27.91/hr
12-Month Rate: $28.91/hr
24-Month Rate: $29.91/hr
Facility Operator II
Entry Rate: $31.22/hr
12-Month Rate: $32.22/hr
24-Month Rate: $33.22/hr
Facility Operator III
Entry Rate: $36.11/hr
12-Month Rate: $37.11/hr
24-Month Rate: $38.11/hr
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 -
  • FO Trainee (Entry Level) - Will be required to get either a Class 4 water or Class 4 wastewater license within 18 months of employment.
  • FO I - Minimum license requirement of Class 4 water or Class 4 wastewater.
  • FO II - Minimum license requirement of Class 4 water and Class 4 wastewater.
  • FO III - Minimum license requirement of Class 3 water and Class 3 wastewater.

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 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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