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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

We're proud to support essential industries helping bring clean air and water to everyone. To learn ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

We're proud to support essential industries helping bring clean air and water to everyone. To learn ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 16, 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 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 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 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.

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

The most popular types of Water Operator 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:

Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,530 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Equipment Operator I - Public Works

Pasco County, FL

New Port Richey, FL โ€ข On-site

$18.74 - $26.24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Salary: $18.74 - $26.24 Hourly
Location : San Antonio and Shady Hills, FL
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 10459-0623R
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 06/09/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Range: $18.74 - $26.24
Pay Grade: N32 (Non-exempt position)
Salary Disclosure: Pay rates are based on education, skill, experience level and internal equity.
General Description
JOIN OUR TEAM AS AN EQUIPMENT OPERATOR I
Performs semiskilled work in the operation of light trucks and other light automotive and maintenance equipment. Performs manual labor, much of which is construction related.
Essential Job Functions
Operates the following equipment: flatbed truck, four-ton-yard dump truck, pickup truck, water truck, tractor with front-end loader, mowing tractor, water pump, air compressor, chain and cement saws, cement mixers and portable compactors. May operate heavier equipment on a relief or trainee basis to acquire necessary skill and experience. Works in a variety of unskilled and semiskilled tasks. Performs minor repair of equipment.
Performs related work as required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of light-duty, motor-driven equipment.
  • Knowledge of the traffic laws, ordinances and regulations involved in the operation of such equipment.
  • Knowledge of standard safety equipment and procedures involved in operation of equipment.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral or written instructions.
  • Ability to perform heavy manual labor under any type of weather conditions.
  • Ability to read technical manuals for comprehension.

Minimum Requirements
PHYSICAL SKILLS: Ability to lift and/or move up to 90 pounds and also push or pull heavy objects. May use a handling device (dolly, cart, etc.) or work with another team member to lift and/or move excessively heavy objects. Ability to stand for long periods of time. Ability to climb, bend, stoop, walk and squat frequently. Ability to communicate effectively using verbal, written and visual communication.
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Must possess a High School Diploma or GED. One (1) year of general work experience involving operation of light maintenance equipment and performance of manual work. Construction related manual work preferred.
LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS OR REGISTRATIONS: Must possess a valid Florida driver's license. Applicants must obtain a Florida Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B with Air Brakes Temporary Permit within ten (10) days from date of hire and a permanent Florida CDL Class B License must be obtained within ninety (90) days of hire. Those who do not currently possess a Florida Commercial Driver's License, but possess a valid Florida Driver's License, will be considered for hire as an Equipment Operator Trainee at the starting pay rate of $17.00 per hour.
ADA STATEMENT: A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE: Pasco County is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE/RECOVERY ACTIVITIES: All employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.
VETERANS' PREFERENCE: Under Section 295.07, F.S., Chapter SSA-7, Pasco County BCC provides to Veterans, that preference in appointment will be given to preference-eligible applicants.
PASCO COUNTY WAS VOTED ONE OF THE NATION'S TOP WORKPLACES FOR 2021
Benefits include:
  • Florida Retirement System (FRS) retirement plan
  • PTO (Paid Time Off)
  • Paid holidays
  • Group insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Deferred compensation
  • Medical leave pool
  • Annual medical leave buy-back
  • Mid-management/Professional grade, and management personnel may receive 40 hours of admin leave per calendar year.

Effective July 1, 2011, FRS members must contribute 3% of their salary as retirement contributions, on a pre-tax basis (the salary is reduced by the amount of the employee contribution before determining the federal income tax deduction). The employer will automatically deduct the employee contributions.
01
I am aware that the following supplemental questions will determine my eligibility for this position.
  • Acknowledge
  • Decline

02
Are you a current Pasco County BOCC employee?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Which best describes your highest level of COMPLETED education?
  • GED
  • High School
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • Doctorate
  • None of the above

04
Which best describes the years you have of general work experience involving operation of light maintenance equipment and performance of manual work?
  • Ten or more years of experience
  • Nine years but less than ten
  • Eight years but less than nine
  • Seven years but less than eight
  • Six years but less than seven
  • Five years but less than six
  • Four years but less than five
  • Three years but less than four
  • Two years but less than three
  • One year but less than two
  • Less than one year of experience

05
Which best describes the years of experience you have in construction manual labor?
  • Ten or more years of experience
  • Nine years but less than ten
  • Eight years but less than nine
  • Seven years but less than eight
  • Six years but less than seven
  • Five years but less than six
  • Four years but less than five
  • Three years but less than four
  • Two years but less than three
  • One year but less than two
  • Less than one year of experience
  • No experience

06
Do you possess a valid Florida driver's license or have the ability to obtain the license within 30 days from date of hire?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you have a valid Florida CDL Class B with Air Brakes temporary permit or can you obtain it within 10 days of date of hire?
  • No
  • Yes

08
Do you have a CDL Class B (permanent) with air brakes OR can you obtain it within 90 days from date of hire?
  • Yes
  • No

09
Which location do you prefer?
  • San Antonio
  • Shady Hills

10
Are you a veteran who served as a member of the armed forces of the United States during a period of war, defined in Title 38, U.S.C., and who was separated from such service under honorable conditions, or the surviving spouse of any such veteran?(Supporting documentation needed at time of application or next business day)
  • Yes
  • No

11
I hereby acknowledge that Pasco County BOCC is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida law, and consent to pre-employment drug/alcohol testing, and agree to abide by the program and policy if employed by Pasco County BOCC.
  • Acknowledged
  • Declined

12
Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?Note: If hired, a Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, must be completed at the start of employment.
  • Yes
  • No

13
Have you recently retired from the Florida Retirement System (FRS) Pension Plan or Investment Plan within the last 12 months?
  • Yes
  • No

14
Please specifically explain how your prior work experience and education match the qualifications for this position. (1000 characters or less)
15
How did you hear about this position?
  • Billboard
  • Facebook
  • Friend/Family Referral
  • Indeed
  • Instagram
  • Job Fair
  • LinkedIn
  • Magazine publication
  • Nextdoor
  • Pasco County employee
  • Pasco County Traffic Sign
  • Pasco County Website/GovernmentJobs.com
  • Utility bill insert
  • X/Twitter
  • YouTube
  • Other

16
If a Pasco County employee referred you, please provide the name of the employee.
Required Question