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Wastewater Operator Trainee information

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$14

$25

$39

How much do wastewater operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator trainee in the United States is $25.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How long does it take to get a wastewater license?

The time to obtain a wastewater license varies by state and certification level but typically ranges from several months to a year, depending on the required training, work experience, and passing relevant exams. Wastewater operator trainees often need to complete specific coursework and gain practical experience before qualifying for licensing exams.

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

To thrive as a Wastewater Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with monitoring equipment, SCADA systems, and the pursuit of relevant state operator certifications are typically expected. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork skills help trainees excel in this role. These competencies ensure safe and efficient facility operations, compliance with regulations, and protection of public health and the environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Wastewater Operator Trainees during their initial training period?

As a Wastewater Operator Trainee, one common challenge is adapting to the technical complexity of plant operations, including learning to monitor and maintain various mechanical and chemical systems. Trainees often need to quickly become familiar with safety protocols, regulatory requirements, and emergency response procedures. Additionally, the work frequently involves shift schedules, including nights and weekends, which can require flexibility. However, with the guidance of experienced operators and structured on-the-job training, most trainees build confidence and proficiency over time.

Where do wastewater operators make the most money?

Wastewater operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and more advanced treatment facilities, such as urban areas with large infrastructure investments. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment plant also influence earning potential, with operators in supervisory roles or with specialized skills earning the most.

How much do wastewater operators make in the US?

Wastewater operator trainees in the US typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with experienced operators earning $25 to $35 or more per hour. Salaries vary based on location, experience, certifications, and the size of the facility, and many positions require knowledge of treatment processes and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Wastewater Operator Trainee vs Wastewater Operator?

AspectWastewater Operator TraineeWastewater Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma; may need a state-issued trainee or apprentice licenseRequires a valid wastewater operator license or certification
Work EnvironmentSupervised, learning environment at treatment plants or pumping stationsFull responsibility for operating and maintaining wastewater treatment equipment
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with daily operations, learning procedures, performing basic tasksManaging treatment processes, troubleshooting, and ensuring regulatory compliance

The main difference between a Wastewater Operator Trainee and a Wastewater Operator is experience and certification level. Trainees are in learning roles, often supervised, while Wastewater Operators are fully responsible for plant operations with proper licensing. Trainees focus on gaining skills, whereas Operators perform independent work to maintain wastewater treatment systems.

What are Wastewater Operator Trainees?

Wastewater Operator Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities. They work under the supervision of experienced operators to learn how to monitor equipment, collect samples, and ensure that water treatment processes comply with environmental regulations. As trainees, they gain hands-on experience and knowledge required to obtain certification and advance to higher-level operator positions. Their work helps protect public health and the environment by ensuring wastewater is properly treated before being released.

Are wastewater operators in demand?

Wastewater operator trainees are in demand due to ongoing needs for water treatment and environmental compliance. The role often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of treatment processes, making qualified operators essential for maintaining public health and environmental standards.
More about Wastewater Operator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Wastewater Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Wastewater Operator Trainee job openings:
What states have the most Wastewater Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Wastewater Operator Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Wastewater Operator Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Wastewater Operator Trainee jobs are:
Wastewater Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,224 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Wastewater Operator Trainee

Wastewater Operator Trainee

City of Melbourne, FL

Melbourne, FL • On-site

$21.42 - $34.38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

City Of Melbourne (Florida) rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

166th of 668 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary: $21.42 - $34.38 Hourly
Location : City of Melbourne, FL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 01849
Division: Water Reclamation
Opening Date: 05/22/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
This position can be filled as a Wastewater Operator Trainee, C, B, or A.
Pay will be commensurate with the level of license held.
Wastewater Operator Trainee - Salary Range $21.42 to $34.38/Hourly DOQ
Wastewater Operator C - Salary Range $24.69 to $40.47/Hourly DOQ
Wastewater Operator B - Salary Range $25.74 to $42.23/Hourly DOQ
Wastewater Operator A - Salary Range $26.83 to $44.06/Hourly DOQ
Under the general supervision of a Water Reclamation Plant Supervisor or Operations Supervisor, performs entry level work in the operation and maintenance of a water reclamation facility. Work is performed under the guidance of a licensed operator; however, a supervisor provides instructions and direction as well as oral and written procedures to be followed to identify the standards that are to be maintained. Work is reviewed periodically during the training period.
Examples of Duties
  • Trains in the monitoring and maintenance of the proper surveillance of all wastewater plant processes, equipment, and controls to ensure efficient operation of the plant and compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws, ordinances, and regulations.
  • Participates in on-the-job training involving practical "hands-on" experience with facility operations under the guidance of a licensed operator; reads and comprehends a variety of technical laboratory, operations, and maintenance procedures.
  • Trains in learning to adjust equipment to regulate flow rates or modify treatment process in accordance with need determined by observations and test. Collects and analyzes wastewater samples at various stages of the treatment process, report results, or delivers samples to the laboratory.
  • Assists certified operators in all work and duties required in wastewater treatment plant operations.
  • Monitors telemetry system and responds to situations as necessary based upon independent judgment and initiative. Ability to perform data entry tasks on a computer.
  • Starts and stops machinery and pumps, regulates valves, observes gauges, and meters; add chemicals according to prescribed standards. Notifies supervision both verbally and in the operations logs of any unusual occurrence, non-compliance situations, processes upsets, or mechanical failures.
  • Assists in or performs limited maintenance and minor repairs to plant equipment including the lubrication of motors and pumps.
  • Performs housekeeping duties such as sweeping and mopping floors, washing windows, painting, and light building maintenance; performs grounds maintenance activities.

Minimum Qualifications
High School diploma or G.E.D. (Proof must be uploaded with application)
  • Wastewater Operator Trainee Qualifications: High School diploma or GED. One year general work experience related to the operation of electro-mechanical equipment in production type industry. Must order approved training course required to sit for the State of Florida Class "C" Wastewater Treatment certification exam within three (3) months of hire date. Preference will be given to any applicant that has already started or completed the pre-requisite course stated above, or has sat and passed the State of Florida Class "C" Wastewater Treatment certification exam. Must provide monthly reports to Water Reclamation Supervision to demonstrate progress of the training course. Must successfully complete the training course within nine (9) months of hire date. Must sit for the first scheduled State of Florida Class "C" Wastewater Treatment certification exam after completing the training course. As a condition of continued employment, must obtain a State of Florida Class "C" Wastewater license within twenty-four (24) months of hire or by third (3rd) examination attempt. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida driver's license. Applicants who possess a valid out of state driver's license must obtain a Florida Driver's License within 10 days of employment. Must successfully pass a mathematics proficiency exam prior to interview.
  • Wastewater Operator C Qualifications: High school diploma or GED. Must possess a current State of Florida Class "C" Wastewater license. Minimum of one year experience at the full performance level in a water reclamation facility. Applicants who possess an out of state driver's license must obtain a Florida license within 10 days of employment.
  • Wastewater Operator B Qualifications: High school diploma or GED. Must possess a current State of Florida Class "B" Wastewater license. Two years minimum experience at the full performance level in a water reclamation facility. Applicants who possess an out of state driver's license must obtain a Florida license within 10 days of employment.
  • Wastewater Operator A Qualifications: High school diploma or GED. Must possess a current State of Florida Class "A" Wastewater license. Four years minimum experience at the full performance level in a water reclamation facility. Must possess a current State of Florida Class "A" Wastewater license. Applicants who possess an out of state driver's license must obtain a Florida license within 10 days of employment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Ability and willingness to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with co-workers, supervisors and the public.
  • Ability to understand written and oral instructions.
  • Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment.
  • Knowledge of mathematics, chemistry and biology.
  • Ability to read and understand technical manuals.
  • Ability to readily learn the operation of tools and equipment.
Physical and Mental Requirements:
  • Ability to learn complex tasks and remember how to complete tasks without assistance once trained.
  • Use of senses which include sight, smell, hearing and touch as aids in the evaluation and troubleshooting of malfunctioning equipment.
  • Ability to see and read prints, letters, numbers, words, characters or symbols which are both large and small.
  • Ability to use small hand tools which require the use of hands, wrists and fingers. Dexterity and fine motor skills required.
  • Ability to walk or sit for periods up to one (1) hour.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push and pull items which weigh up to 50 pounds and are considered awkward to grasp or hold on to over uneven terrain, up/down stairs or ladders.
  • Ability to move back and forth and sideways while in a bending, kneeling or squatting position; go from a standing or sitting position to a bending, kneeling or squatting position or vice-versa.
  • Ability and willingness to operate sludge handling facilities, including tandem truck/trailer equipment on plant-site.
  • Ability and willingness to work in undesirable conditions including exposure to dust, dirt, fumes, odors, noise, wetness, humidity, hazardous chemicals, and materials, heat and cold; enter and work in confined spaces as necessary when provided adequate safety devices.
  • Ability to access and operate motor vehicles (i.e., tractor/trailers, pick-up trucks, vans, etc...) at night and during inclement weather conditions.
  • Ability to effectively communicate in English, both verbally and in writing; correctly identify colors and hues, tints, and shades of colors by sight.
  • Ability and willingness to work on any shift at either facility for training purposes.
  • Ability and willingness to work overtime, weekends, holidays and declared emergencies as required.
  • Ability to climb ladders 35 feet high.

The City of Melbourne offers a generous to include:
• 100% City paid medical insurance for employee only; coverage available for family
• Health Insurance opt-out incentive for employees with other medical coverage
• Dental
. Vision
• Life Insurance in the amount of 1 times your annual salary
• Additional life insurance to include coverage for your spouse and child(ren)
• Short-term disability
• Long-term disability
• Flexible Spending and Dependent Care Account
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program
• 457 Deferred Compensation
• Retirement Plans (FRS, local plan for Police and Fire personnel)
• Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement
01
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview.By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal. "See resume" is not an acceptable answer to the questions.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • No, I do not agree

02
What is the highest level of education you have completed?
PROOF OF EDUCATION REQUIRED FOR THE POSITION YOU ARE APPLYING FOR MUST BE UPLOADED TO APPLICATION.
  • Did not complete High School Diploma or GED
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • High School Diploma or GED and Some College
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's or Higher

03
Do you possess a valid State of Florida driver's license, or a valid out of state driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Please select your current State of Florida Wastewater License:
  • Class C
  • Class B
  • Class A
  • None of the above

05
How many years of general work experience related to the operation of electro-mechanical equipment in production type industry do you have?
  • None
  • Less than 1 year
  • More than 1 year less than 2 years
  • More than 2 years less than 3 years
  • More than 3 years less than 4 years
  • More than 4 years less than 5 years
  • More than 5 years

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