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Wastewater Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Edmond

Field Services Apprentice

Edmond, OK · On-site

$17.60/hr

Apprentice Level Full Salary Range: Hourly Rate $17.60 - $26.40 (depending on related experience ... Possess or obtain DEQ Licenses for Water and Wastewater * Experience in construction, utilities ...

myhrtempletx

Utility Technician Apprentice

Temple, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Summary Utility Technician Apprentice, under the general supervision of the Crew Leader, installs ... Repairs water and wastewater lines; cleans and inspects pipes; installs repair parts and evaluates ...

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Wastewater Apprentice information

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$12

$22

$37

How much do wastewater apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater apprentice in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wastewater apprentice?

Wastewater Apprentices are entry-level workers who assist in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities while learning the trade. They work under the supervision of experienced operators, helping with tasks such as monitoring equipment, collecting samples, and performing basic maintenance. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, preparing individuals for certification as wastewater treatment operators. This role is essential for ensuring that wastewater is treated safely and meets environmental standards.

What types of hands-on training can I expect as a wastewater apprentice, and how closely will I work with experienced operators?

As a Wastewater Apprentice, you can expect to participate in extensive hands-on training that covers the operation and maintenance of treatment equipment, regular sampling and testing of water, and adherence to safety procedures. You'll work closely with experienced operators who will mentor you through daily tasks, troubleshooting issues, and understanding compliance standards. Most apprenticeship programs emphasize a team-oriented environment, where collaboration and communication with maintenance crews, laboratory staff, and supervisors are essential. This structure helps apprentices build practical skills and prepares them for advancement within the field.

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

To thrive as a Wastewater Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, strong mechanical aptitude, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as pumps, meters, and SCADA systems, as well as pursuing or holding relevant operator-in-training certifications, is expected. Attention to detail, a willingness to learn, and effective teamwork skills help apprentices adapt to changing situations and follow safety protocols. These competencies are crucial to ensuring safe and efficient wastewater treatment operations while maintaining compliance with environmental regulations.

What is the difference between Wastewater Apprentice vs Wastewater Operator?

AspectWastewater ApprenticeWastewater Operator
CertificationsTypically in training, may require basic certificationsRequires state-specific wastewater operator license
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, treatment plants, on-the-job learningOperational facilities, maintenance, monitoring
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning procedures, assisting with tasksManaging treatment processes, troubleshooting

Wastewater Apprentices are in training, gaining skills and certifications, while Wastewater Operators are fully qualified professionals responsible for daily plant operations. Apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career as an Operator, with increasing responsibilities over time.

What cities are hiring for Wastewater Apprentice jobs?

Cities with the most Wastewater Apprentice job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater jobs?

The most popular types of Wastewater jobs are:

What states have the most Wastewater Apprentice jobs?

States with the most job openings for Wastewater Apprentice jobs include:

Wastewater Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Apprentice job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.

Wastewater Treatment/Compost Apprentice, Maintenance Worker, or Operator

City of Port Townsend

Port Townsend, WA

$36.46 - $46.38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

The City of Port Townsend is recruiting to fill one vacancy in the Wastewater Treatment/Compost division of Public Works at any of the levels described below depending on experience. We are also hiring a Crew Chief or Crew Chief Apprentice.

This position performs the administrative tasks and physical labor related to the oversight, operations, and supervision of the Wastewater Treatment Plant and/or Compost Facility. The City of Port Townsend strives to provide quality and reliable infrastructure operations in service to the community and environment as the City looks toward a sustainable future.

Complete job descriptions are available here.

Maintenance Worker Apprentice

Pay Range: $27.06-30.74 hourly base pay range ($27.06-34.43 total pay range including maximum potential longevity pay)

Minimum Requirements

    • High school diploma or GED
    • Valid Washington State driver's license and ability to maintain a driving record acceptable to the City's insurance carrier
    • Certified Compost Facility Operator certification issued by Washington Organics Recycling Council or must obtain within 3 years of employment in this position
    • First Aid/CPR certification or must obtain within 1 year of employment
    • Flagger Training Certification within the first 6 months in this position

    Preferred

    • WA State Class A CDL
    • Current First Aid/CPR Certificate
    • Current Flagger Training Certificate

Maintenance Worker

Pay Range: $27.98-32.00 hourly base pay range ($27.98-33.34 total pay range including maximum potential longevity pay)

Minimum Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid Washington State driver's license and ability to maintain a driving record acceptable to the City's insurance carrier
  • One (1) year as a wastewater treatment or biosolids apprentice or equivalent relevant experience
  • WA State Wastewater Treatment OIT within 6 months of employment
  • WA State Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group I within 18 months of employment
  • Certified Compost Facility Operator certification issued by Washington Organics Recycling Council or must obtain within 3 years of employment in this position
  • First Aid/CPR certification or must obtain within 1 year of employment
  • Flagger Training Certification within the first 6 months in this position
  • Washington State CDL B or ability to obtain within 12 months in the position

Preferred qualifications

  • WA State Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group I
  • 2+ years' experience working in a wastewater or water related field
  • WA State Class A CDL
  • Current First Aid/CPR Certificate
  • Current Flagger Training Certificate

Operator I

Pay Range: $34.04-38.52 hourly base pay range ($34.04-43.14 total pay range including maximum potential longevity pay)

Minimum Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid Washington State driver's license and ability to maintain a driving record acceptable to the City's insurance carrier
  • WA State Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group II or higher certification
  • 3+ years of experience working at a wastewater treatment plant
  • Certified Compost Facility Operator certification issued by Washington Organics Recycling Council or must obtain within 3 years of employment in this position
  • First Aid/CPR certification or must obtain within 1 year of being in this position
  • Flagger Training Certification within the first 6 months in this position
  • Washington State CDL B or ability to obtain within 12 months in the position

Preferred Qualifications

  • 5+ years' experience working in a wastewater treatment or related field
  • WA State Class A CDL
  • Current First Aid/CPR Certificate
  • Current Flagger Training Certificate

Operator II

Pay Range: $36.46-41.41 hourly base pay range ($36.46-46.38 total pay range including maximum potential longevity pay)

Minimum Requirements

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Valid Washington State driver's license and ability to maintain a driving record acceptable to the City's insurance carrier
  • WA State Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Group II or higher certification
  • 8+ years of experience working at a classification II or higher Wastewater Treatment Plant
  • Certified Compost Facility Operator certification issued by Washington Organics Recycling Council
  • First Aid/CPR certification or must obtain within 1 year of being in this position
  • Flagger Training Certification within the first 6 months in this position
  • Washington State CDL B or ability to obtain within 12 months in the position

Preferred Qualifications

  • 3+ years of experience leading wastewater-related plant operations involving secondary treatment
  • WA State Class A CDL
  • Current First Aid/CPR Certificate
  • Current Flagger Training Certificate


This position may be eligible for the additional compensation listed below. Details can be found in the Collective Bargaining Agreement:

  • Longevity pay on a graduated schedule starting at 2% after 5 years, up to 12% after 25 years
  • Remote plant operations pay
  • Emergency response pay
  • Phone-watch pay
  • Overtime pay or compensatory time
  • Premium pay or compensatory time
  • Jury duty pay at regular rate during service
  • Call-back pay
  • Standby pay

BENEFITS

  • WA State PERS retirement and optional 457 Deferred Comp
  • Teamsters pension *
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance through WA Teamsters Welfare Trust Fund *
  • Time loss/short-term disability insurance
  • Life & AD&D insurance
  • Sick leave (earns 1 day per month)
  • May be eligible for sick leave conversion annually
  • Vacation (graduated accrual schedule starts at 8 hours per month)
  • 12 paid holidays
  • Eligible for up to 3 floating holidays based on years of service
  • Mandatory safety shoe allowance
  • Prescription safety glasses allowance, if required for job
  • Up to 5 days of bereavement leave, if applicable
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

* Teamsters initiation fee is $100 and monthly dues are 2.25 of hourly wage x the base hourly rate rounded to the nearest dollar.

The City of Port Townsend is an equal employment opportunity employer. 

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