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Wastewater Operator In Training Jobs in Kentucky

Operator III

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$30 - $55/hr

Operate water and wastewater treatment systems in accordance with project operating procedures and environmental regulations. * Monitor treatment processes and make operational adjustments to ...

Offal Operator

Cromwell, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

... Operator ... In this hands-on position, you will help maintain the performance of offal and wastewater systems ...

... Wastewater, Site/Civil, Construction Inspection, Planning, Environmental, Surveying, Land ... Engineer-In-Training - Transportation Qk4 is seeking early career engineering graduates eager to ...

... Wastewater, Site/Civil, Construction Inspection, Planning, Environmental, Surveying, Land ... Engineer-In-Training - Transportation Qk4 is seeking early career engineering graduates eager to ...

The bonds created between our team members and our customers are unlike those seen in most other ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

Manager in Training Position Summary The Manager in Training position is our entry level management ... Ensuring your location is operating up to all Mike's Carwash standards and guidelines at all times.

Manager in Training Position Summary The Manager in Training position is our entry level management ... Ensuring your location is operating up to all Mike's Carwash standards and guidelines at all times.

Manager in Training Position Summary The Manager in Training position is our entry level management ... Ensuring your location is operating up to all Mike's Carwash standards and guidelines at all times.

Manager in Training Position Summary The Manager in Training position is our entry level management ... Ensuring your location is operating up to all Mike's Carwash standards and guidelines at all times.

Manager in Training Position Summary The Manager in Training position is our entry level management ... Ensuring your location is operating up to all Mike's Carwash standards and guidelines at all times.

Manager in Training Position Summary The Manager in Training position is our entry level management ... Ensuring your location is operating up to all Mike's Carwash standards and guidelines at all times.

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Wastewater Operator In Training information

See Kentucky salary details

$12

$24

$39

How much do wastewater operator in training jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in training in Kentucky is $24.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $29.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wastewater operator in training?

A Wastewater Operator In Training is an entry-level professional who assists in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities under the supervision of certified operators. They learn to monitor, control, and troubleshoot processes that treat water to remove contaminants before it is released back into the environment. This role involves hands-on work with equipment, recording data, and following safety and regulatory procedures while gaining the experience required to become a certified wastewater operator.

What are some common challenges faced by a wastewater operator in training, and how can they be overcome?

As a Wastewater Operator In Training, you may encounter challenges such as learning complex regulatory requirements, adapting to shift work, and mastering the operation of diverse treatment equipment. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but hands-on experience, mentorship from senior operators, and diligent study of standard operating procedures can ease the learning curve. Proactively asking questions and participating in safety and technical training sessions will also help you build confidence and competence in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wastewater operator in training?

To thrive as a Wastewater Operator In Training, you need a solid understanding of basic math, science, and mechanical skills, usually supported by a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with water treatment equipment, SCADA systems, and an operator-in-training certification are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to safety help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient and safe treatment processes, compliance with regulations, and protection of public health and the environment.

What is the difference between Wastewater Operator In Training vs Wastewater Operator?

AspectWastewater Operator In TrainingWastewater Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma; may need state-specific training or certificationsRequires valid wastewater operator license or certification
Work EnvironmentSupervised, entry-level role in treatment plants or pumping stationsFull responsibilities in operating and maintaining wastewater treatment systems
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with routine tasks, learning operational proceduresPerforming daily operations, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance

In summary, a Wastewater Operator In Training is an entry-level position focused on learning and assisting, while a Wastewater Operator has full certification and responsibility for plant operations.

What are popular job titles related to Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Kentucky? For Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Kentucky are:
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator In Training job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,966 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Sr Wastewater Treatment Operator

American Water Works Service Company, Inc.

Lexington, KY • On-site

$26.78 - $43.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


American Water rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Requisition ID:  109808 

Share Our Purpose.  Be Yourself.  Feel Valued. 

People are the heart of our business. As an American Water employee, you will be offered a competitive salary and health benefits package, along with opportunities to develop, grow, and evolve your career.  Our benefits packages focus on key areas such as health & wellness, emotional & well-being, and savings for current & future goals.

We are Beautifully Different. We strongly believe having diversity across our company makes us more successful and helps us provide essential services to our customers. We are stronger because we embrace different ideas, viewpoints, experiences, and backgrounds. American Water is the best choice for your next role!  Click here for more information on our inclusion, diversity, and equity journey.

About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations.  American Water’s approximately 7,000 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.

For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.

Job Information

Pay Range: $26.78/hr-$43.39/hr

The base salary range represents a good faith salary range for this position. This position is eligible for annual incentive pay and has the opportunity for continued salary growth. If you are hired at American Water your base salary compensation will be determined based on factors such as market, geography, skills, education and/or experience. At American Water, we are committed to pay equity. 

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more! 

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally! 

#LI-BR1

#LI-Onsite

Primary Role

Kentucky American Water is seeking a full-time Wastewater Treatment Operator to join our team in Lexington, KY. This position is critical to ensure our customers and the local community are provided the highest quality product and services. As an operator, you will be responsible for monitoring our two package treatment plants, as well as the collection system. 

The Sr. Wastewater Treatment Operator will be working alone or as a member of a team, and under the guidance of a Lead Operator or Supervisor, provides for the safe operation of wastewater facilities in an assigned area(s) in such a manner as to support a Supervisor or other Operators in complying with the requirements for distributing wastewater treatment and collection as established by the company and state and federal governmental regulatory agencies. This role provides guidance and training to Operator and, as necessary, to less senior Operators and Plant Utility Worker assigned as members of the team.

A Kentucky Wastewater Operator and Collection license are required for this position.

Key Accountabilities
  • Operates, and performs routine duties and care of a wide variety of specialized equipment and apparatus in a plant/treatment facility including pumps, motors, chlorinators, chemical preparation, and feeding; physical, chemical, and biological wastewater treatment processes; control equipment and monitoring equipment
  • Regulates the flow of wastewater and sludge through the treatment processes
  • Maintains records of operations, completes and submits routine and special reports, as assigned. Inspects all mechanical equipment for proper operation
  • Performs normal lubrication, adjustments, seal packing, minor maintenance, and minor repairs, as necessary
  • Performs related field and laboratory tests necessary to monitor and control the facilities
  • Makes necessary adjustments to equipment, processes, and chemical feeders, as test results may indicate and as instructed by the Lead Operator/Supervisor
  • Responds to customer service calls
  • May train other employees in the operation and care of facilities including maintenance, repairs, laboratory work, and safety, as required
  • Conducts safety inspections and follows safety rules and procedures
  • Communicates effectively with other operators and supervisors
  • Attends and participates in operational and safety training programs as directed by management
  • Always interacts with fellow employees and the public in a professional and courteous manner
  • Performs all duties of Plant Utility Worker and Lead Operator, as necessary, as well as other related duties, as assigned; assists other departments as needed
Knowledge/Skills
  • Basic knowledge of the principles and safety practices of wastewater or water distribution, pumping, collection, and treatment, each as they may apply to area of responsibility.
  • Basic understanding of the mechanical, chemical, and biological processes and related equipment, as well as an awareness and alertness regarding operational modification necessary in both routine and emergency situations.
Experience/Education
  • High School graduate or equivalent
  • College course work in biology, chemistry, environmental science, or engineering preferred
  • Minimum of two years of experience in the water supply or wastewater treatment field
  • Experience in training others in the variety of tasks related to operations and care of all facilities in a safe and proper manner
  • Experience in servicing, maintaining, and repairing a wide variety of machinery and equipment
Travel Requirements
  • Local travel within service territory
Certifications/Licenses
  • License requirements vary by state
  • Kentucky Wastewater Operator Class II and Collections Class II license required
  • Those with a Kentucky Class I Wastewater Operator and Collections Class I licenses will be considered
  • Candidates must possess the required licenses or have the ability to obtain within a designated timeframe
  • Valid state driver's license
Work Schedule
  • Full-time, on-site
  • Monday-Friday, day shift
  • Rotating on-call responsibility for after hour needs
Competencies
Champions safety
Cultivates innovation
Customer obsessed
Drives Results
Collaborates
Nimble learning

Join American Water...We Keep Life Flowing

American Water is firmly committed to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and prohibits employment discrimination for employees and applicants based on his or her age, race, color, pregnancy, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, citizenship, or because they are an individual with a disability, protected veteran or other status protected by federal, state, and local laws.


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About American Water

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

With a history dating back to 1886, American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest and most geographically diverse U.S. publicly traded water and wastewater utility company. The company employs more than 6,500 dedicated professionals who provide regulated and regulated-like drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people in 24 states. American Water provides safe, clean, affordable and reliable water services to our customers to help keep their lives flowing.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Camden, NJ, US

Year founded

1886

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