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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Plant Operator Trainee

Wantagh, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Company Description Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology ...

Operations Supervisor

East Rockaway, NY

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment ... Supervises a staff of Plant Operators - trainees, 1A licensed Operators, 2A licensed Operators and ...

Operations Supervisor

East Rockaway, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment ... Supervises a staff of Plant Operators - trainees, 1A licensed Operators, 2A licensed Operators and ...

Part Time System Operator I Trainee

Long Island City, NY · On-site

$33K - $54K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a Part Time System Operator I for our ... WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment ...

Checks all alarms in order to ensure that they are set and properly operating. 3. Initiates usage ... water and bath solutions for laboratory analysis; repairs and/or replaces commonly worn out ...

Water Operator Trainee information

See New York salary details

$27.9K

$47.6K

$69.5K

How much do water operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operator trainee in New York is $47,624.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,100.00 and $55,800.00 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 New York?

The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in New York are:

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

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

What cities in New York are hiring for Water Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Water Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,624 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Plant Operator Trainee

Veolia Environnement SA

Wantagh, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Company Description

Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country's largest private water operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It offers a full spectrum of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. Veolia helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education and municipality customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Veolia has more than 10,000 employees working at more than 350 locations across North America.

Job Description

Position Purpose: 

Under the direction of the Operations Supervisor, Operations Lead Personnel and in coordination of fellow Operations Personnel the incumbent will perform a variety of basic tasks relevant to the day-to-day operation of the wastewater treatment plant facilities, processes and equipment, including process and equipment rounds, recording operations data and information, making observations and reporting on variations in operating conditions, maintaining logs and other required reports and forms, and provides input for corrective actions and implements corrective actions as directed. Assist Operations in efforts to maintain efficient and cost-effective facility operations while maintaining compliance with all Corporate and Regulatory environmental, health and safety rules and requirements.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Works a scheduled shift and will be subject to required emergency call in or shift coverage as Operational needs demand.
  • Under the direct Supervision of Shift Supervisor or Lead person may be required to perform some of the following tasks depending on the station assigned for that shift:
    • Record and Read meters for (pumps, gauges, motors etc....) in accordance with all regulatory requirements.
    • Record tank levels, sludge blanket levels.
    • Operate equipment pertinent to assigned workstation (GBT, BFP, overhead lifting jib crane, pumps)
    • Open, close and adjust valves for tanks & pumps.
    • Observe their process areas (pumps, motors, valves, sewage color, odor, flow) record their findings.
    • Collect samples for laboratory analysis.
    • Receive chemicals in bulk, drum and tote form.
    • Adjust / bleed pumps as directed.
    • Keep the workstation and surrounding area safe and clear of debris.
    • Inspect equipment for proper functionality and refer to Maintenance for any necessary repairs.
    • Maintain a logbook for the station they are operating.
    • Create work requests for equipment found to be malfunctioning or broken.
    • Make adjustments to equipment to optimize the operation (GBT & Dewatering).
    • Troubleshoot operational issues and get approval of operations supervisor before executing.

Work Environment:

  • Work is performed both inside and outside with exposure to all kinds of weather conditions. 
  • Incumbents may be occasionally exposed to some noise, silica, dust, fumes, smoke, gases, greases, oils, electrical energy, solvents and vibration. 
  • Incumbents may work on slippery/uneven surfaces, around machinery with moving parts, moving objects/vehicles, ladder/scaffolding, below ground and may be exposed to water or other liquid materials.
  • Maintain a high level of focus on health, safety and environment, ensuring safety within all activities.
Qualifications

Education/Experience/Background: 

  • High School Diploma/GED is required.
  • Associate degree (or equivalent experience) in Environmental Science, Engineering, Biology/Laboratory or related fields preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

  • Requires good reading, math, writing, and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to read, and record data from meters, gauges, scales, panels, computer consoles, and other equipment.
  • Ability to understand/execute written and oral instructions, read/understand technical instructions.
  • Ability to interpret data and information from technical service manuals and drawings.
  • Knowledge of Windows, Google Workspace, MS Office Suite, and other computer-based systems.
  • Knowledge of basic laboratory sampling, testing and documentation.
  • Ability to adjust chemical feeds and processing equipment as directed to maintain compliance.
  • Basic knowledge of wastewater treatment equipment and processes.
  • Must have the ability to maintain effective working relations w/management, supervisors, and staff.
  • Must be able to work as a team in a teamwork-oriented environment.
  • Must be safety conscious and able to work independently with little or no supervision.
  • Must have a general understanding of how the treatment plant works and the SPDES limits associated to the station being operated.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training: 

  • Valid NYS Driver's license and the ability to meet risk management guidelines.
  • Possesses valid NY State Class 1A Wastewater Treatment License is preferred or ability to attend classes required for obtaining valid NY State Wastewater Treatment license and obtain license within 24 months.
Additional Information

Pay Rate: $22.91 per hour.

Benefits: Our employees are covered by comprehensive benefits packages including paid time off policies; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; retirement plans, savings accounts; tuition reimbursement; paid volunteering and more.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.