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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Boston Properties

Maintenance Technician

Reston, VA · On-site

... water treatment, hardware, keying and fire protection. * Perform and/or assist in the installation ... Training and/or certification in HVAC or Operating Engineering Technologies and/or job-related ...

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Trainee JobsWater Operator Trainee Jobs in Washington

Water Operator Trainee information

See Washington salary details

$28.9K

$49.3K

$71.9K

How much do water operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operator trainee in Washington is $49,302.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,400.00 and $57,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an operator trainee do?

A water operator trainee assists in the operation and maintenance of water treatment and distribution systems under supervision. They learn to monitor equipment, perform tests, and ensure water quality standards are met, often working with tools and following safety protocols. Training programs typically prepare them for certification exams required for full licensing.

How much do wastewater operators make?

Wastewater operators in Alabama typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific facility. Entry-level trainees may start at lower wages, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher pay and additional benefits.

Is it hard to become a water treatment operator?

Becoming a water treatment operator typically requires completing a training program and obtaining relevant certifications, which can involve technical coursework and on-the-job experience. The difficulty varies depending on the individual's background and the specific requirements of the employer or jurisdiction.

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.

How to become a water utility operator?

To become a water utility operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical coursework in water treatment and distribution. Many states require passing certification exams to operate water treatment or distribution systems, and obtaining relevant licenses enhances job prospects. Skills in mechanical systems, safety procedures, and environmental regulations are also important.

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 Washington? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator Trainee jobs in Washington? For Water Operator Trainee jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator Trainee jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator Trainee jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Water Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Water Operator Trainee job openings:
Water Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,302 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Environmental Operator Trainee

Charles County Government

La Plata, MD

$39K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Summary This is a repost of this position. Previous applicants need not re-apply. Open until filled with a best consideration date of February 2, 2026.

All applicants moving forward in the recruiting process for this position will be required to take and pass a math test. The hiring salary is $39,353.18 annually. .Charles County Government is currently recruiting for an Environmental Operator Trainee to become a part of our Department of Public Works team

The Environmental Operator Trainee performs utility plant operation work. Involves maintaining, operating, and repairing equipment, machines and devices used in the water pumping and delivery system and the wastewater processing plant. Essential Job Functions Assists with the maintenance and minor repair of a variety of mechanical and electrical equipment (pumps, chemical feed systems, metering devices, motor control systems, valves, etc.) under the direction of the Supervisor

Assists in preventative maintenance of chlorination equipment and the rebuilding of chemical feed equipment. Monitors process controls, SCADA, and makes visual assessments for proper water/wastewater system operation. Operates and maintains County environmental facilities by observing the operation of all equipment and controls.

Operates electrical controls for start and stop operation. Conducts sampling duties at water and wastewater treatment plants and performs tests in compliance with state and federal regulations and maintains operations to meet regulatory agency permit levels. Maintains records, logs, and reports.

Collects and tests samples for laboratory analysis. Inspects and monitors water wells, equipment, and sewer pump stations. Regulates and maintains hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical equipment, valves, and pumps, as well as monitoring and maintaining the disinfection/DeChlor system, polymer, alum feed and pH control.

Reads integrators, charts, meters, and timers, and enters data into computer. Assists in the regulation of flows and chemical levels. Transports equipment, materials, and chemicals to and from work sites.

Maintains facility process operations including startup and shutdown. Adjusts pumps and motor speeds, and changes valves to direct flows maintaining predetermined operating levels. Monitors/operates the County wide Supervisor Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) alarm system, County radios and phone systems during the evening hours and weekends for the County Department of Public Works/Utilities.

Makes necessary contacts in response to alarm. Monitors and records blanket levels in clarifiers and sludge thickeners. Notifies supervisors of any equipment failures, operational problems, or unusual occurrences observed during the performance of assigned duties.

Follows safety regulations and procedures in the performance of all duties. Operates and maintains sand filter and sludge dewatering facilities as assigned. Performs other related job duties as assigned.

Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Education and Experience: Six (6) months of experience in mechanical maintenance; or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and training. Licenses or Certifications: Must possess a valid driver's license. Within first year of employment must gain the following licenses: Northern region: Temporary Class 2 Water Certification, Wastewater Collection System Certification, Water Sampler License, Wastewater 3.

Southern region: Temporary Class 1 Water Certification, Temporary Class 5-A Wastewater Operator certification, Temporary Water Treatment Class 5 Site Specific (Radiation) License Central Region: Temporary Class 5-A Wastewater Operator certification, Temporary Class 1 Water Certification Special Requirements/Qualifications: Subject to work beyond the normal scheduled hours of work. Satisfactory completion of confined space training within first year. Must obtain temporary certification at appropriate level for assigned system and be able to pass a pulmonary fit test.

Subject to call back in emergencies. Serve in on-call duty on a rotational basis. Required to handle a variety of chemicals on a daily basis.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A SAFETY SENSITIVE POSITION, AND EMPLOYEES IN THIS POSITION ARE SUBJECT TO RANDOM DRUG AND ALCOHOL SCREENING. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of the use and care of hand, power and other tools used in the work. Knowledge of basic principles of mechanics as applied to the equipment, machines and devices used in water systems and wastewater treatment plants.

Ability to follow specific instructions and procedures and refer nonstandard situations or problems to others. Ability to learn water and wastewater operator duties. Ability to perform physically demanding work.

Ability to use the tools and equipment of the work efficiently. Ability to follow oral and written instructions. Ability to comply with all aspects of OSHA respiratory requirements, including medical evaluations and fit testing.

Ability to pass annual Pulmonary Breathing Function Test (will be required to be clean-shaven). Ability to enter confined spaces, with proper training. Ability to sometimes work on weekends and holidays.

Additional Information PHYSICAL DEMANDS The work is regularly active with periods of heavy exertion. Typical positions require workers to walk or stand for long periods; lift and carry up to 100 pounds; climb stairs, ladders, and scaffolding; bend, kneel, crouch and crawl; reach, hold, grasp, and turn objects; feel the size, shape, and temperature of items; use fingers to operate computer or typewriter keyboards; speak normally, to use normal or aided vision and hearing, and to detect odors. This is considered an essential job; you will be required to be present during snow or weather emergencies.

WORK ENVIRONMENT Principal duties of this job are performed in a general office; in shop or field settings and outside environment and exposed to inclement weather. Exposed to wastewater environment. Department/Division: Public Works Utilities/Operations and Maintenance Pay Grade: 105 FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Telework Eligible: No Reports To: Wastewater Operations Supervisor Supervises: None.

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