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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Tyson Foods

Manager Complex Environmental

Shelbyville, TN · On-site

$99K - $103K/yr

Duties include: supervising the waste water supervisor and waste water operators creating and ... Trainee program; food production industry experience a plus. Computer Skills: Proficient with ...

pcg

Regional Craft Employment - Atlantic

Nashville, TN · On-site

Helper/Laborer/Trainee/Utility : Prepares work area by transporting needed tools and equipment from ... Operator : An operating engineer's job entails operating and maintaining heavy equipment, such as ...

pcg

Regional Craft Employment - Atlantic

Smyrna, GA

Helper/Laborer/Trainee/Utility : Prepares work area by transporting needed tools and equipment from ... Operator : An operating engineer's job entails operating and maintaining heavy equipment, such as ...

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

Water Plant Operator I

City of Johnson City

Johnson City, TN • On-site

$19.76/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

The City of Johnson City, Tennessee is currently accepting applications for a Water Plant Operator I with Water & Sewer Services. The employee performs responsible semiskilled work in a trainee capacity, operates water treatment plant equipment and facilities on an assigned shift; does related work as required. Employees in this class are responsible for the operation of water filters and chemical feeders used in the treatment of water. Duties include the taking of samples for laboratory analysis, and the reading and recording of meters at regular intervals. The work is supervised by the Water Plant Operator III or Chief Water Plant Operator through inspection, and by observing the effectiveness of plant operation through the analysis of shift reports and chemical laboratory test.
Essential Functions of Position:
  • periodically checks chemical feeders, pumps, filters and other equipment to ascertain it is operating properly;
  • operates, oils and adjusts pumps and machinery;
  • starts and stops pumps;
  • regulates valves and observes flow dials;
  • keeps daily log of shift operations, reads logs of previous shifts and makes reports;
  • reads gauges and transmits information to supervisor;
  • draws samples of water and makes routine laboratory tests and analysis;
  • adds chemicals to water system in accordance with prescribed standards;
  • determines the correct amounts of chemical to be added to the raw water to achieve the most efficient and economic type of treatment;
  • records amounts of chemicals used, and amounts of raw water and finished water pumped in last 24 hours;
  • washes filters periodically;
  • makes visual inspection of working apparatus and grounds;
  • keeps water plant building and grounds in clean condition;
  • takes telephone calls of complaints and reports nature of complaints to supervisor;
  • inspects reservoirs and records water levels;
  • performs facility and grounds maintenance;
  • performs related tasks as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Some knowledge of the functions and servicing requirements of mechanical equipment and machinery; willingness and ability to learn the processes involved in the purification of water including routine chemical tests; ability to inspect machinery and mechanical equipment in operation, and to detect flaws and defects in operation; ability to read simple meters and charts accurately, and to maintain simple records of shift operation; ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions; mechanical aptitude. Dexterity to operate machinery.
Acceptable Experience and Training: Completion of high school or trade school including or supplemented by courses in chemistry or related subjects and some experience as a skilled laborer in maintenance work; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform in this position. Pre-employment physical, drug screening and background check required.
EEO

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