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Wastewater Operator Trainee Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Pilgrim's

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition, which means the safety of our team members comes first - always. POSITION SUMMARY: The Bi-Product and Wastewater Utility Operator is responsible ...

JBS Imports

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition, which means the safety of our team members comes first - always. POSITION SUMMARY: The Bi-Product and Wastewater Utility Operator is responsible ...

Pilgrim's

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our team members comes first - always. POSITION SUMMARY: The Bi-Product and Wastewater Utility Operator is responsible ...

Pilgrim's

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our team members comes first - always. POSITION SUMMARY: The Bi-Product and Wastewater Utility Operator is responsible ...

Pilgrim's

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$18 - $24.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our team members comes first - always. POSITION SUMMARY: The Bi-Product and Wastewater Utility Operator is responsible ...

JBS Imports

Wastewater Level 2

Douglas, GA · On-site

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is a Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

Pilgrim's

Wastewater Level 3

Douglas, GA · On-site

$17.25 - $24/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is a Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

Pilgrim's

Wastewater Level 2

Douglas, GA · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

Opportunity to grow your career through our Supervisor Development Program or Management Trainee ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

Pilgrim's

Wastewater Level 1

Douglas, GA · On-site

$17.25 - $24/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is a Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

JBS Imports

Wastewater Level 3

Douglas, GA · On-site

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is a Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

Pilgrim's

Wastewater Level 3

Douglas, GA · On-site

$17.25 - $24/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is a Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

Pilgrim's

Wastewater Level 3

Douglas, GA · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is a Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

Pilgrim's

Wastewater Level 1

Douglas, GA · On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is a Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

Pilgrim's

Wastewater Level 1

Douglas, GA · On-site

$17.25 - $24/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is a Condition, which means the safety of our team members ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

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Wastewater Operator Trainee information

See Georgia salary details

$11

$21

$33

How much do wastewater operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator trainee in Georgia is $21.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wastewater operator trainee?

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.

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

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.

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 cities in Georgia are hiring for Wastewater Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Georgia with the most Wastewater Operator Trainee job openings:

Wastewater Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator Trainee job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,941 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Plant Operator III (Drinking Water or Wastewater)

DeKalb County

Stone Mountain, GA • On-site

$19 - $29.93/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Dekalb County (Georgia) rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

650th of 854 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary Range:   $19.00/hour - $29.93/Hour    Salary Grade:  10    FLSA:  Nonexempt


Purpose of Classification:

The purpose of this classification is to operate water and wastewater treatment facilities in compliance with federal, State and Local regulations for the operation of water treatment, distribution, storage facilities and/or wastewater collection, lift stations or treatment facilities.

Essential Functions:

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Performs all aspects of operation, sampling, monitoring, and testing required to maintain compliance with federal, State and Local regulations that govern water treatment and wastewater operations; performs laboratory analysis; physically checks equipment to ensure correct operation feed, dosages, and calibrations necessary to properly operate facilities and systems.

Assists in the performance of regular and unscheduled repairs and maintenance on plant equipment and machinery; conducts weekly checks of the treatment plant; rotates equipment; changes and connects chlorine and other specialized water treatment plant equipment; monitors chemical feed equipment, operates solids processing equipment; and operates load lugging trucks.

Collects potable water and wastewater samples and performs laboratory analysis such as pH, turbidity, chlorine levels, fluoride levels, dissolved oxygen levels, and total suspended solids, total volatile solids, and temperature on grab samples; and calibrates lab equipment and instruments.

Monitors the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems for any changes that may impact the plant processes such as pressure changes, chemical pumps faulting out, distribution storage tank levels, chemical tank levels, turbidity levels, and filter function.

Prepares reports and records testing results; completes forms and various paperwork; enters data into the computer; and receives telephone calls and responds to customer complaints.

Maintains a safe and clean work environment (both inside the facilities and on the grounds) per OSHA and DeKalb County standards.

May assist in the training of entry level trainee operators as needed; and participates in continuing education classes and testing to maintain and renew Georgia and DeKalb County certification and licensure requirements.

Minimum Qualifications:

High school diploma or GED required; one year of experience in a water or wastewater treatment facility or equivalent; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Specific License or Certification Required:  Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license; must possess and maintain a valid State of Georgia Class III Water or Wastewater Operator License.

At DeKalb County Government, we enable career success by providing opportunities to thrive! Our culture is rooted in principles of collaboration, teamwork, and achievements. We foster a diversified and inclusive workforce, embracing a shared set of core values based on character, competitive spirit, relationships, and giving back to the communities where we live and work. This foundation is how we help turn jobs into careers.

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