1

Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

WRF Operator III

Flowery Branch, GA · On-site

$41K - $52K/yr

Department of Water Resources Division: Flat Creek Opening Date: 06/30/2026 Closing Date: 8/28/2026 ... Six months experience as a WRF Trainee or previous experience as a state certified wastewater ...

... 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.

... 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.

... 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.

... 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.

... 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.

... 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.

... 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.

... 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.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Water Operator Trainee information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$24.5K

$41.9K

$61.1K

How much do water operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operator trainee in Atlanta, GA is $41,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,700.00 and $49,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs in Atlanta, GA? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Atlanta, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator Trainee jobs in Atlanta, GA? For Water Operator Trainee jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator Trainee jobs in Atlanta, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator Trainee jobs in Atlanta, GA are:
What cities near Atlanta, GA are hiring for Water Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Atlanta, GA with the most Water Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,861 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Plant Operator Trainee (Water Reclamation)

Clayton County Water Authority

Jonesboro, GA

$24.65 - $38.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position: Plant Operator Trainee (Water Reclamation)

Department: Water Reclamation

PAYGRADE: 105 NE

Pay: Min: $24.65 Mid: $31.42 Max: $38.20

DEADLINE: August 11, 2026

JOB SUMMARY

The purpose of this entry-level position is to perform (under close supervision) a variety of
skilled and semi-skilled technical and maintenance work in the operation, maintenance, and
repair of the wastewater treatment or water production facilities and systems in compliance
with established environmental guidelines; to learn how to monitor and analyze operating and
processing conditions; and to take action to modify process control or equipment operation to
maintain compliance with applicable local, state, and federal environmental rules and
regulations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Attends on-the-job and other training sessions to gain skills and knowledge regarding
plant operations, job performance, and policies, procedures, rules, and regulations;
reads training materials; completes tests and skills assessments; and obtains and
maintains required certifications.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding monitoring plant equipment; assists with
inspecting operating equipment and observing the plant’s Supervisory Control and
Data Acquisition (SCADA) system; assists with adjusting controls and processes, as
necessary, for optimum performance; and assists with ensuring all plant equipment is
maintained in accordance with the O&M manuals.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding collecting and analyzing wastewater, water
treatment and bio-solids samples, treated effluent, sludge, and surface water; assists
with analyzing and evaluating data and making process changes as needed; records
lab results; and updates computer database.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding monitoring and maintaining all treatment
processes within the treatment process chain including includes pump stations,
clarification processes, physical processes, biological processes, chemical feed
processes, solids processing processes, and related equipment, etc.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding monitoring and maintaining the remote transfer
pump station, raw pump station, and storage tanks.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding collecting, compiling, and reviewing
environmental and operational data; assists with preparing and interpreting data used
for daily process control and regulatory reports; and records and archives statistical
data concerning plant operations and plant performance.
• Operates or uses various equipment, power tools, hand tools, and supplies in order to
complete work assignments; operates and maintains SCADA system, aeration
blowers, various pumps and motors, bar screens, grit chambers, clarifiers, odor control
systems, chemical feed systems, forklift, and other tools and equipment.
• Performs other assigned duties.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK

• High school diploma or equivalent; no experience required although some work
experience that shows an ability to maintain steady employment in any field is desired;
or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides
the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
• Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in performance of the essential functions and
learn, comprehend, and apply all CCWA or departmental policies, practices, and
procedures necessary to function effectively in the position.


Required Licenses/Certifications

• Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.
• Must possess and maintain a Georgia Class III Wastewater Operator III License required within 12 months of hire.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as medium work involving
lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects
weighing up to 15 pounds or more.
• Tasks typically involve some combination of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling,
crouching, crawling, and prolonged standing;

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental
conditions, such as dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, rain, fumes,
temperature, noise extremes, hazardous materials, fire, unsafe structures, heights,
confined spaces, machinery, vibrations, electric currents, bright/dim lights, toxic
agents, disease, pathogenic substances, or rude/irate customers.
• Work is performed in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity to change and
responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs.

At CCWA, it is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees, including temporary employees, and applicants for employment based on qualifications, abilities, and merit. Therefore, CCWA prohibits discrimination against employees, applicants or any other legally covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression), citizenship, genetic information, disability status, past, current, or prospective membership in the uniformed services or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to job advertisements, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, benefits, and training.