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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Bus Operator Trainee

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$18.50 - $24.53/hr

Position Title: Bus Operator Trainee Safety Sensitive: Yes Supervisor's Title: Manager of ... We call it "mobility." It's as essential as access to electricity and clean water. It moves a city ...

Water Operator Trainee information

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 are Water Operator Trainees?

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, and why are they important?

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 job categories do people searching Water Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator Trainee jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Water Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Water Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Facility Operator Trainee

Facility Operator Trainee

Essential Utilities, Inc.

Avon, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Aqua, an Essential Utilities company, employs people in a variety of roles within our eight-state footprint, ranging from field workers and customer service representatives who are on the front lines working with customers, to scientists and engineers who help ensure we're delivering reliable water and wastewater services to our communities. If you're looking for a rewarding career helping improve our environment and protect our natural resources, we encourage you to join our team!
About Essential Utilities
Essential Utilities, Inc. delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities.
Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status - including a competitive and comprehensive benefits package as well as a commitment to career growth opportunities.
We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.
Our company is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S.
Are you looking for a fantastic career at Aqua? We have a great opportunity for a Facility Operator Trainee. This role is under the direction of the Field Supervisor and will perform a variety of activities to support the operation of water production facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, lift stations, booster stations, distribution system, and the wastewater collection system.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
  • Maintains equipment at the assigned water production facilities and booster stations.
  • Operates and maintains distribution systems including mains, valves, hydrants and service lines.
  • Maintains equipment at the wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations.
  • Operates and maintains sewer collection systems including collections mains and pump stations.
  • Troubleshoots and repairs service piping and other related equipment .
  • Performs routine water quality analysis in accordance with established processes and procedures.
  • Makes operational adjustments as needed to comply with state and federal water quality standards.
  • Adjusts chemical treatment to ensure water quality meets standards. Calculates various ratios and dosages.
  • Completes customer service work orders, updates and maintains appropriate system documentation of activities and closes work orders in accordance with department policies and procedures.
  • Performs all tasks safely, professionally and in accordance with company policies and procedures as well as local, state and federal laws, rules and guidelines.
  • Assists with other tasks or projects as assigned

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function(s).
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • A high school diploma or GED.
  • No previous experience required.
  • A valid U.S. Driver's License.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Familiarity with computers / tablets and the basic operation of database, spreadsheet and word processing programs preferred
  • Ability to read, understand and accurately follow operating instructions both written and verbal
  • Mathematical ability to perform calculations to determine various ratios, dosages, volumetric calculations that are required for the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Plants and Water Treatment Plants
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate in writing
  • Familiarity with and understanding of the need to prevent wastewater pollution of area waters
  • Understand and maintain plan processes through computer-controlled equipment
  • A team player able to work effectively in a team fostered multi-tasking environment

Career Progression Schedule:
FO Trainee -
  • Will be required to get either a Class I Wastewater or Water Treatment I license within 18 months of employment.

FO I -
  • Minimum license requirement of Class I Wastewater or Water Treatment I.

FO II -
  • Minimum license requirement of Class II Wastewater or Water Treatment II.

FO III -
  • Minimum license requirement of Class III Wastewater or Water Treatment III.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • May be subject to extreme temperatures, noise, wet and/or humid conditions, mechanical, electrical, gas exposure hazards, fumes, dusts, mists, gases and /or poor ventilation atmospheric conditions.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds.
  • Working conditions include travel to work sites of Essential Utilities and/or other constituents.
  • Must obtain a CDL Class C with Hazmat endorsement within 90 days of hire
  • Must be available to be on-call nights and on weekends on a rotation to adequately staff a 24-hour/7-day operation

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Aqua, an Essential Utilities company is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. Equal employment opportunity is provided to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to the following legally protected characteristics: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions, including medical conditions related to lactation), physical or mental disability, covered-veteran status, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state or federal law.
Aqua is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you have a condition that may prevent you from applying for a job online or need to request an accommodation during the interview process, please call (1-877-271-9012).
To maintain the integrity of the recruitment process and to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest due to employment and/or assignment of family members and personal referrals, specific guidelines apply to the hiring and assignment of these individuals including, but not limited to:
  • Family members cannot result in a supervisor/subordinate reporting relationship
  • Family members cannot work in the same department.