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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Essential Utilities, Inc.

Utility Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$24.71/hr

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... Utility Technician Trainee Entry Rate: $22.71/hr 12 Month Rate: $23.71/hr 24 Month Rate - $24.71/hr ...

Aquaamerica

Utility Technician

Palmyra, VA

$24.71/hr

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... Utility Technician Trainee Entry Rate: $22.71/hr 12 Month Rate: $23.71/hr 24 Month Rate - $24.71/hr ...

Aquaamerica

Utility Technician

Greenbackville, VA · On-site

$24.71/hr

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... Utility Technician Trainee Entry Rate: $22.71/hr 12 Month Rate: $23.71/hr 24 Month Rate - $24.71/hr ...

Eckerd Connects

Recreation Assistant On-Call

Monroe, VA · On-site

$17.20/hr

The Recreation Specialist organizes and directs trainees in leisure- time recreation/non-vocational ... The Recreation Specialist assists with Water Safety programming (videos, swimming certification and ...

pcg

Regional Craft Employment - Atlantic

Memphis, TN

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 ...

MasTec Inc

GAS Foreman

Newport News, VA

Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Track employee hours and submit for payroll on a ... Operator Qualification (OQ). * Pipe fusion certification. * DOT Flagger certification. * First Aid ...

MasTec Inc

GAS Foreman

Newport News, VA

Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Track employee hours and submit for payroll on a ... Operator Qualification (OQ). * Pipe fusion certification. * DOT Flagger certification. * First Aid ...

MasTec Inc

UGE Foreman

Chesapeake, VA

... and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

MasTec Inc

GAS Foreman

Newport News, VA

Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Track employee hours and submit for payroll on a ... Operator Qualification (OQ). * Pipe fusion certification. * DOT Flagger certification. * First Aid ...

MasTec Inc

UGE Foreman

Chesapeake, VA

... and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

MasTec Inc

GAS Foreman

Newport News, VA · On-site

Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Track employee hours and submit for payroll on a ... Operator Qualification (OQ). * Pipe fusion certification. * DOT Flagger certification. * First Aid ...

MasTec Inc

GAS Foreman

Newport News, VA

Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Track employee hours and submit for payroll on a ... Operator Qualification (OQ). * Pipe fusion certification. * DOT Flagger certification. * First Aid ...

MasTec Inc

UGE Foreman

Chesapeake, VA

... and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

MasTec Inc

UGE Foreman

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

... and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

MasTec Inc

UGE Foreman

Chesapeake, VA

... and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

MasTec Inc

GAS Foreman

Newport News, VA · On-site

Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Track employee hours and submit for payroll on a ... Operator Qualification (OQ). * Pipe fusion certification. * DOT Flagger certification. * First Aid ...

MasTec Inc

GAS Foreman

Newport News, VA

Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Track employee hours and submit for payroll on a ... Operator Qualification (OQ). * Pipe fusion certification. * DOT Flagger certification. * First Aid ...

MasTec Inc

GAS Foreman

Newport News, VA

Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Track employee hours and submit for payroll on a ... Operator Qualification (OQ). * Pipe fusion certification. * DOT Flagger certification. * First Aid ...

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All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Trainee JobsWater Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia

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 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 popular job titles related to Water Operator Trainee jobs in Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Water Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Utility Technician

Essential Utilities, Inc.

Richmond, VA • On-site

$24.71/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 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.
Pay Range:
Utility Technician Trainee
Entry Rate: $22.71/hr
12 Month Rate: $23.71/hr
24 Month Rate - $24.71/hr
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
  • Performs semi-skilled installation, maintenance and repair of valves, meters, gauges, pumps, and associated equipment used in water distribution systems or wastewater collection systems using hand and power tools.
  • Operates and performs routine maintenance of vehicles and equipment; i.e. trucks, digging, trenching equipment, and other equipment in accordance with company procedures, equipment and operating standards.
  • Loads and unloads various equipment, chemicals and supplies at worksites and storage areas.
  • Operates medium construction equipment under the supervision of a qualified operator.
  • Adheres to all safety and security operating policies, procedures, practices and standards to ensure a safe working environment.
  • Performs ground keeping and custodial work as assigned.
  • Resolves routine problems and notifies management of issues outside scope of responsibility.
  • Reads meters as needed.
  • Updates and maintains documentation of work activities, including closing work orders as needed in the system.
  • 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:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • No previous experience is required although mechanical and/or electrical experience is preferred.
  • Valid U.S. driver's license

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience maintaining filter systems such as Clack, Fleck or Kinetico water filter systems

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Familiarity with computers and work systems such as Microsoft office suite
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills; communicate effectively (clearly, concisely and professionally) with customers and internal staff.
  • Strong customer service skills
  • Ability to work well under pressure
  • Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • A team player able to work effectively in a team fostered multi-tasking environment

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.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Working conditions may include travel to work sites of Essential Utilities and/or other constituents.
  • May be required to be "on-call" per the site schedule

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.

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