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Wastewater Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Richmond, VA

$38.11/hr

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... Facility Operator Trainee Entry Rate: $23.52/hr 12-Month Rate: $24.52/hr 24-Month Rate: $25.52/hr ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Avon, IN · On-site

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... We have a great opportunity for a Facility Operator Trainee . This role is under the direction of ...

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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 23, 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,224 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Water/Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

Water/Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

Pinellas County Government

Saint Petersburg, FL

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Pinellas County rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

328th of 700 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Water/Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

Work Location: 2861 110th Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33716

Schedule: Ability to work 40 hours per week (10 hours/day, 4 days/week) and be assigned shifts to cover a 24-hour a day operation. The incumbent will normally be the sole operator on the shift after a sufficient training period.

Technical work monitoring, operating, and maintaining an Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facility.  The incumbent independently completes tasks in water and/or wastewater treatment plant operations, monitoring, maintenance, and/or repair of pumps, motors, treatment systems, generators, and related support systems.  Types of equipment and systems experienced may include lift stations, switch gear, flow meters, chemical feed systems, overhead cranes and related activities.  The incumbent also performs collection, analysis, reporting, and processing of a variety of samples.  The incumbent performs work independently, takes initiative to ensure sound plant operations.  The incumbent seeks guidance and direction on unusual or difficult assignments or problems.  The incumbent is supervised by a manager, plant operations supervisor or designee. 

What Would You Do?

  • Ensure the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of the Industrial Water Treatment Facility and surface water intake station to ensure an adequate supply of properly treated water to the Waste to Energy plant.

  • Monitor available water supply and communicate and coordinate with Waste to Energy staff on Waste to Energy water needs and availability.

  • Monitor and maintain appropriate chemical feed and chemical feed system parts inventory levels.

  • Monitor and operate Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for the Industrial Water Treatment Facility.

  • Perform water quality testing as required, review the results, and adjust plant operations as necessary to meet water performance standards.

  • Replace parts and conduct troubleshooting as necessary to maintain plant operations.

  • Prepare correspondence and reports.

  • Maintain accurate and complete records on plant operations, maintenance, and laboratory data.

  • Participate in section and Division meetings and task teams.

  • Performs related work as assigned or required.

     

What Do You Need To Have?

  • Valid Florida Driver's License at time of hire. 
  • Assignment to work a variety of work schedules including compulsory work periods in special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.
  • High school diploma or equivalent and agree to complete a Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) approved training course to obtain a passing score on the Florida Water or Wastewater Plant Operator Class "C" License as set forth in Florida Administrative Code Chapter 62-602, DEP describing Water or Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators and Water Distribution System Operators license requirements. 

  • Must obtain Water or Wastewater Plant Operator Class "C" license within 2 years of hire; if they do not already have a "C" license.

Highly Desirable

  • Water or Wastewater Plant Operator Class "C" license or higher.

  • Two years' experience with Micro Filtration and Reverse Osmosis technology in water treatment

Our benefits rank among the top in the area!

  • Looking for a strong retirement? We have you covered as members of the Florida Retirement System (FRS) with investment and pension options.

  • We have deferred compensation programs and wellness centers to name a few perks. Check out these and more!

Want To Learn More?

Please review the full classification description with the Physical/Mental Demands and Working Conditions at the below link. 

Want to Learn More?

Please review the full classification description with the Physical/Mental Demands, Working Conditions, and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities at the below link.

Water/Wastewater Plant Operator Trainee

Employment Type: Full time

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