ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Wastewater Operator In Training Jobs in Chicago, IL

City of Elmhurst

Utility Operator I or II

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$30.35 - $46.27/hr

... training in the operation and maintenance of water and wastewater systems; OR an equivalent ... Operator II: Must possess a high school diploma or general education degree (GED); AND new ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWastewater Operator In Training JobsWastewater Operator In Training Jobs in Chicago, IL

Wastewater Operator In Training information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$29

$46

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in training in Chicago, IL is $29.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.54 and $34.66 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 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 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 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 Chicago, IL?

For Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Wastewater Operator In Training jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Wastewater Operator In Training jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Wastewater Operator In Training job openings:

Wastewater Operator In Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator In Training job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,450 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Facility Operator - Wastewater Utility

Aquaamerica

Manteno, IL • On-site

$30 - $32/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 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.

Are you looking for a fantastic career at Aqua? We have a great opportunity for a Facility Operator in the Manteno, IL division!

While reporting to the Wastewater Plant Supervisor, this person will perform a variety of activities to support the operation of wastewater treatment facilities, lift stations, booster stations, distribution systems, and the wastewater collection system for our Central IL region. This candidate will also be asked to help support other facilities in the area (Bourbonnais, Manteno, and Peotone) as well.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

  • Maintain equipment at the assigned wastewater production facilities and booster stations.
  • Maintain equipment at the wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations.
  • Operate and maintain sewer collection systems, including collections mains and pump stations.
  • Troubleshoot and repair service piping.
  • Perform routine water quality analysis in accordance with established processes & procedures.
  • Make operational adjustments as needed to comply with state & federal water quality standards.
  • Adjust chemical treatment to ensure water quality meets standards.
  • Calculate various ratios and dosages.
  • Complete customer service work orders: this involves updating / maintaining appropriate system documentation of activities and closing work orders in accordance with departmental policies & procedures.
  • Assists with other tasks or projects, as assigned.
  • Tuesday-Saturday Work Schedule

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Possess a High School Diploma (or equivalent).
  • Professional experience working with wastewater treatment systems is preferred (but not required); experience working with Mechanical, Plumbing, and/or Electrical systems will also be considered.
  • Must obtain an IEPA-issued Class IV Wastewater Operator License within 18 months of employment.
  • Must possess a valid U.S. Driver's License
  • Must obtain your CDL permit and medical card within the first 90 days of employment, and your CDL license with all required endorsements within 60 days of in-house training.
  • Must be able to acquire a CDL (Commercial Driver's License) within 9 months of hire date and obtain Tanker Endorsement within 30 days after.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Email, Word, Excel, etc.).
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills; this person will be expected to communicate effectively (clearly, concisely, and professionally) with internal customers.
  • Strong customer service skills.
  • Ability to work well under pressure.
  • Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • A team player able to work effectively in a team fostered multi-tasking environment.

WORKING CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Must reside within 30-45 minutes of the plant.
  • Rotating Plant Schedule/Travel requirements
  • Must be able to lift and move equipment in excess of 50lbs and possess the ability to work in confined spaces; a Lift test will be required as part of pre-employment process for this position.
  • 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.
  • Working conditions include travel to work sites of Essential Utilities and/or other constituents.
  • Company vehicle is provided for business purposes only.
  • Once trained, this position will require to participate in a on-call rotating schedule - this will involve being available on nights and weekends.

HIRING SALARY RANGE: $30.00-$32.00/hour

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.

Apply