1

Water Operator Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Operator

Leesburg, FL

$18.80 - $37.66/hr

Nature of Work Water Operator Apprentice - $18.08 per hour This is an entry level class in the Water Operator series. This class work under supervision on a training basis in the performance of a ...

Summary Assists with operating, monitoring, controlling, testing, and troubleshooting water supply, treatment plant, distribution system and storage facilities. Work under the direct supervision of a ...

Water Operator

Leesburg, FL · On-site

$25.72/hr

N/A Nature of Work Water Operator Apprentice - $18.08 per hour This is an entry level class in the Water Operator series. This class work under supervision on a training basis in the performance of a ...

Summary Assists with operating, monitoring, controlling, testing, and troubleshooting water supply, treatment plant, distribution system and storage facilities. Work under the direct supervision of a ...

Drinking Water Plant Operator (Appr. - III) Job Posting Closing Date: 09/09 Provo City is seeking a full-time Drinking Water Plant Operator (Apprentice - level III) to provide skilled maintenance ...

Water Operator FT

Washington, UT · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Performs a variety of entry, apprentice level semi-skilled duties related to the construction ... May receive close supervision from a Water Systems Operator IV, III or II while in training or on a ...

Collects water samples and assists with laboratory testing and recordkeeping. * Monitors gauges ... Maintains accurate operating logs, reports and maintenance records. * Responds to emergencies and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Water Operator Apprentice information

See salary details

$13

$20

$29

How much do water operator apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator apprentice in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water operator apprentice?

Water Operator Apprentices are individuals who are training under the supervision of experienced water operators to learn how to operate, maintain, and monitor water treatment and distribution systems. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with water testing, monitoring equipment, maintaining records, and helping ensure the safety and quality of public water supplies. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience, classroom instruction, and prepare individuals for certification exams required for full licensure as a water operator. This role is essential in protecting public health and supporting community infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water operator apprentice?

To thrive as a Water Operator Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with water testing equipment, SCADA systems, and safety protocols is important, and some states require an operator-in-training certificate. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient water treatment operations, regulatory compliance, and public health protection.

What are some common challenges faced by water operator apprentices during their training period?

Water Operator Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, learning complex water treatment processes, and understanding strict safety and regulatory requirements. During the apprenticeship, balancing hands-on duties—like monitoring equipment and performing maintenance—with classroom learning can be demanding. Additionally, apprentices must develop strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with experienced operators and supervisors, ensuring safe and efficient plant operations.

What is the difference between Water Operator Apprentice vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater Operator ApprenticeWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma; may need state-specific water operator certifications as they progressRequires valid water treatment operator certifications, often at a licensed level
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training in water treatment facilities, often under supervisionOperates and monitors water treatment systems independently or with minimal supervision
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in water utilities, public works, or private water companiesFull-fledged role in water treatment plants, municipal or industrial water facilities

The Water Operator Apprentice is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining certifications, while the Water Treatment Plant Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment systems. Apprenticeship programs prepare individuals for the operator role through hands-on experience and training.

What cities are hiring for Water Operator Apprentice jobs?

Cities with the most Water Operator Apprentice job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Water Operator jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Operator Apprentice jobs?

For Water Operator Apprentice jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Water Operator Apprentice job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,951 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

$18.80 - $37.66/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Nature of Work Water Operator Apprentice - $18.08 per hour This is an entry level class in the Water Operator series. This class work under supervision on a training basis in the performance of a wide variety of routine unskilled to semi-skilled water and wastewater plant operations and maintenance tasks that do not require previous water plant experience. General work is observed and reviewed during performance and upon completion, and changes in procedures or exceptions to rules, are explained in detail as they arise

The class is responsible for monitoring water/wastewater treatment processes, adjusting chemical or physical processes, maintaining logs and records, and general plant and systems maintenance. The class works according to set procedures under direct supervision. Water Operator C - $21.14 per hour The purpose of the class is to operate and maintain water treatment equipment

The class is responsible for monitoring water treatment processes, adjusting chemical or physical processes, maintaining logs and records, and general plant and systems maintenance. The class works according to some procedures; decides how and when to do things under general supervision. Water Operator B - $22.87 per hour The purpose of the class is to operate and maintain water treatment equipment

The class is responsible for monitoring water treatment processes, adjusting chemical or physical processes, maintaining logs and records, and general plant and systems maintenance. The class works within a general outline of work to be performed; develops work methods and sequences under general supervision. Water Operator A - $25.72 per hour The purpose of the class is to operate and maintain water treatment equipment

The class is responsible for monitoring water treatment processes, adjusting chemical or physical processes, maintaining logs and records, and general plant and systems maintenance. The class works within a general outline of work to be performed; develops work methods and sequences under general supervision. Essential Job Functions Water Operator Apprentice Monitors water/wastewater treatment processes including operation of chemical and physical processes.

Monitor and operates SCADA control system. Calibrates equipment and measures and records parameters. Dispatch service crews as required and coordinate job effort utilizing city radio system.

Adjusts chemical or physical processes to standards based on measurements and indications. Generate daily operational Reports. Performs maintenance on water/wastewater treatment systems and plant equipment; assists with or performs general clean up of each facility.

Responds to complaints from public; resolves issues or refers to supervisor for resolution. Monitor chemicals and other supplies as necessary to ensure adequate levels. Maintains logs and records as required.

Performs routine office or plant tasks, such as typing, filing, faxing, phoning, copying, and maintaining logs and records. Water Operator C Monitors water treatment processes including operation of chemical and physical processes. Monitor and operates SCADA control systems.

Calibrates equipment, measures and records specific parameters. Dispatch Service crews as required and coordinates job effort utilizing city radio system. Adjusts chemical or physical processes to standards based on measurements and indications.

Generates daily operational reports. Performs maintenance on water treatment systems and plant equipment; assists with or performs general cleanup of plant. Responds to complaints from public; resolves issues or refers to supervisor for resolution.

Orders chemicals or other supplies as necessary. Maintains logs and records as required. Performs routine office or plant tasks, such as typing, filing, faxing, phoning, copying, and maintaining logs and records.

Water Operator B Monitors water treatment processes including operation of chemical and physical processes. Monitors and operates SCADA control system. Calibrates equipment and measures and records parameters; collects samples for testing.

Dispatch service crews as required and coordinates job effort utilizing city radio system. Adjusts chemical or physical processes to standards based on measurements and indications. Generates daily operational reports.

Performs maintenance on water treatment systems and plant equipment and facilities. Trains, assists, and advises less experienced workers; confers with supervisors and coordinates activities. Responds to complaints from public; resolves issues or refers to supervisor for resolution.

Orders chemicals or other supplies as necessary. Maintains logs and records as required. Performs routine office or plant tasks, such as typing, filing, faxing, phoning, copying, and maintaining logs and records.

Additional duties as assigned by Chief Plant Operator. Water Operator A Monitors water treatment processes including operation of chemical and physical processes. Monitors and operates SCADA control system.

Calibrates equipment and measures and records parameters; collects samples for testing. Dispatch service crews as required and coordinates job effort utilizing city radio system. Adjusts chemical or physical processes to standards based on measurements and indications.

Generates daily operational reports. Performs maintenance on water treatment systems and plant equipment and facilities. Trains, assists, and advises less experienced workers; confers with supervisors and coordinates activities.

Responds to complaints from public; resolves issues or refers to supervisor for resolution. Orders chemicals or other supplies as necessary. Maintains logs and records as required.

Performs routine office or plant tasks, such as typing, filing, faxing, phoning, copying, and maintaining logs and records. Additional duties as assigned by Chief & Lead Plant Operator. Minimum Requirements Water Operator Apprentice Requires a high school diploma or GED.

Weekend, holiday and afterhours work may be required, as well as after-hours response and emergencies. Requires a valid State of Florida driver license and satisfactory driving record as a condition of initial and continued employment. A Class B CDL with air brake endorsement preferred.

Must obtain a state FDEP "C" license in water operations within two years from hire. Special skills or equipment certification may be required. Water Operator C Requires a high school diploma or GED; supplemented by vocational/technical training in water treatment plant operations; supplemented by three (3) years previous experience and/or training involving water treatment plant operations and equipment maintenance; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.

Requires a valid State of Florida driver license and satisfactory driving record as a condition of initial and continued employment. A Class B CDL with an air brake endorsement preferred. Must have and maintain a current/valid State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection Class "C" Operator's License.

Requires 2080 hours of experience in water treatment Water Operator B Requires a high school diploma or GED; supplemented by vocational/technical training in water treatment plant operations; supplemented by three (3) years previous experience and/or training involving water treatment plant operations and equipment maintenance; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Requires 6240 hours of experience in water treatment Must have and maintain a current/valid State of Florida Class "B" Certified Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator License, State of Florida driver's license and satisfactory driving record as a condition of initial and continued employment. A Class B CDL with an air brake endorsement is preferred.

Special protective services skills and/or equipment certifications are required. Water Operator A Requires a high school diploma or GED; supplemented by vocational/technical training in water treatment plant operations; supplemented by five (5) years previous experience and/or training involving water treatment plant operations and equipment maintenance; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job. Requires 10,400 hours of experience in water treatment Must have and maintain a current/valid State of Florida Class "A" Certified Drinking Water Treatment Plant Operator License, State of Florida driver's license and satisfactory driving record as a condition of initial and continued employment.

A Class B CDL with an air brake endorsement is preferred. Special protective services skills and/or equipment certifications are required. Must live within a 20-mile radius of the city limits of Leesburg within six (6) months of employment due to on-call rotation requirement.