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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

City of Clermont, FL

Operator

Clermont, FL · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Water Operations Opening Date: 08/10/2026 Closing Date: Continuous General Description This ... Assists in the supervision and training of trainees and other personnel. * Repairs valves, scales ...

City of Clermont

Operator

Clermont, FL · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

... of water and/or wastewater treatment facilities and related equipment for the City. Work is ... Assists in the supervision and training of trainees and other personnel. Repairs valves, scales ...

City of Ocala

Local Hire Program - Trainee

Ocala, FL · On-site

$16.06/hr

Maintenance Worker Trainee (Water Resources) Routine manual labor work in general maintenance ... This includes, but is not limited to, operating various tractors with mowers, flatbed trucks, dump ...

City of Punta Gorda, FL

SCADA Analyst

Punta Gorda, FL · On-site

$45K - $73K/yr

Must hold a valid Florida Class "A" Water Operator License. Supervisory Responsibilities : * May be required to exercise direct supervisory authority over Operator Trainee(s) and/or Utility ...

City of Ocala, FL

Local Hire Program - Trainee

Ocala, FL · On-site

$16.06/hr

Maintenance Worker Trainee (Water Resources) Routine manual labor work in general maintenance ... Equipment Operator Trainee (Public Works) Manual and semi-skilled work in maintenance equipment ...

City of Punta Gorda

SCADA Analyst

Punta Gorda, FL · On-site

$45K - $73K/yr

Must hold a valid Florida Class "A" Water Operator License. Supervisory Responsibilities: May be required to exercise direct supervisory authority over Operator Trainee(s) and/or Utility maintenance ...

City of Eustis

Wastewater Operator C

Eustis, FL · On-site

$20.87/hr

... water; motors; pumps; valves; gauges; lawn mower; various hand tools and equipment; various ... Oversees and trains Operator Trainees, when required; Reviews and maintains records and reports;

Miccosukee Tribe of Indians

Be Seen First

Water & Sewer Mechanic

Miami, FL · On-site

$61K - $76K/yr

Water Plant Mechanical Operator controls, maintains, and repairs the mechanical and hydraulic systems that treat and move water in a treatment facility. He ensures pumps, valves, and filtration ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Trainee JobsWater Operator Trainee Jobs in Florida

Water Operator Trainee information

See Florida salary details

$19.1K

$32.5K

$47.5K

How much do water operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operator trainee in Florida is $32,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,700.00 and $38,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water operator trainee?

Water Operator Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities. They work under the supervision of certified water operators to learn how to monitor, test, and ensure the quality and safety of public water supplies. Their responsibilities often include collecting water samples, recording data, performing basic laboratory tests, and learning about regulatory compliance. This role is designed to provide hands-on experience and training required to become a licensed water operator.

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

To thrive as a Water Operator Trainee, you need basic math, science knowledge, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with water treatment equipment, monitoring systems, and the pursuit of a state-issued water operator certification are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help you excel in monitoring and maintaining water quality standards. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of water facilities and compliance with regulatory requirements.

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

Water Operator Trainees often face challenges such as adapting to the technical complexity of water treatment systems, learning to accurately monitor and adjust equipment, and understanding strict safety and regulatory requirements. Trainees must quickly become familiar with both manual and automated processes, as well as handle emergency situations like equipment malfunctions or water quality concerns. Support from experienced operators and ongoing hands-on training are key to overcoming these hurdles and building competence in the role.

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

AspectWater Operator TraineeWater Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and may need a state-specific water treatment or distribution certificationRequires a valid water treatment or distribution certification, often obtained after training
Work EnvironmentSupervised, entry-level role in water treatment plants or distribution systemsFull responsibilities in operating, maintaining, and monitoring water systems
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with daily operations, learning procedures, and gaining experiencePerforming routine maintenance, monitoring equipment, and ensuring water quality

The main difference between a Water Operator Trainee and a Water Operator is experience and certification level. Trainees are in learning roles, often requiring supervision, while Water Operators have completed necessary certifications and handle full operational duties independently.

Are water operator trainees in high demand?

Water operator trainees are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for water treatment and distribution, especially as many facilities seek to meet regulatory standards. The role often requires certifications and technical skills, and employment opportunities are generally stable in the water utility industry.

Is being a water operator trainee worth it?

A water operator trainee position provides hands-on experience in water treatment and distribution, often serving as a stepping stone to certification and full licensing. It offers practical skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and job stability, making it a valuable entry-level role in the water industry.

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

The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Operator Trainee jobs in Florida?

For Water Operator Trainee jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Operator Trainee jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operator Trainee jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Water Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Water Operator Trainee job openings:

Water Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in Florida 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 $32,530 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Operator

City of Clermont, FL

Clermont, FL • On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Salary : $49,670.40 - $63,065.60 Annually
Location : 3335 Hancock Rd., Clermont, FL
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 01321
Department: Public Services
Division: Water Operations
Opening Date: 08/10/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
General Description
This position performs technical, manual, and sometimes clerical work in the operation and maintenance of water and/or wastewater treatment facilities and related equipment for the City. Work is performed under general supervision.
This position is non-exempt. Fair Labor Standards Act overtime provisions will apply.
Per Florida Statute 295.065, certain servicemembers and veterans, and the spouses and family members of such servicemembers and veterans, receive preference and priority, and that certain servicemembers may be eligible to receive waivers for postsecondary educational requirements, in employment by the state and its political subdivisions and are encouraged to apply for the positions being filled.
Primary Duties
  • Assists in operation of the treatment facilities and maintenance including taking samples, lab testing, analyzing, and monitoring samples.
  • Monitors, maintains, and repairs related equipment, wells, electrical panels, gauges, controllers, pumps, etc.
  • Assists in treating wastewater and sewage for reuse on golf courses, etc.
  • Reads meters; maintains monthly fuel readings; and inspects fire extinguishers.
  • Inspects grease traps at restaurants within City limits to assure ordinance compliance.
  • Assists in the supervision and training of trainees and other personnel.
  • Repairs valves, scales, control panels and other electrical problems.
  • Performs inspections and maintenance of the water and/or wastewater operation systems.
  • Performs manual labor such as: mowing, operate small equipment, etc.
  • Assists in office when needed such as answering phones, etc.
  • Maintains home telephone and may be required to work rotating shifts, on call duties, and extended hours in emergency situations.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • One (1) year of related experience.
  • Valid Florida class "C" Certification in Wastewater Treatment is required.
  • Certified in the safe handling of chlorine.
  • Certified in "Confined Space Entry."
  • Valid Florida Driver's License.
  • Obtain a restricted Florida Class "B" Commercial Driver's permit within 90 days from the date of hire for Water Operator.
  • Obtain a Florida Class "B" Commercial Driver's License within 180 days from date of hire for Water Operator.
  • Obtain FEMA IS100 and IS700 within six (6) months from date of employment.

In some cases, an equivalent combination of higher education and experience may be considered, provided that the education and experience is in a relevant and related field.
Essential Physical Functions & Environmental Conditions
Physical Demands
  • Continual light work and occasional heavy work.
  • Requires frequent walking and standing, climbing, stooping, reaching, and bending.
  • Good finger/hand dexterity and hand/eye coordination.
  • Good eyesight, hearing, and speech.
  • Regular driving of vehicle.
  • Must be able to wear personal protection equipment (PPE).

Work Environment
Works outside in sometimes adverse environmental conditions (e.g., heat, cold, and rain) for moderate periods of time. Exposure to construction and water/wastewater site hazards, traffic, and moving machinery. Involves working with high voltage equipment, heights and below ground level conditions.
The City of Clermont is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires the City to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with management.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform all of the essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions described herein. Job functions described are not to be construed as a complete statement of all duties performed. Employees may be assigned additional duties by management as deemed necessary. Duties not contained herein may be considered essential to performing this job successfully, just as though they were included in this job description.
The City of Clermont has the right to revise this job description at any time. This description does not represent in any way a contract of employment.
City of Clermont Benefits

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