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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Huntingtown, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Water Operator Trainee information

See Huntingtown, MD salary details

$26.1K

$44.5K

$64.9K

How much do water operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operator trainee in Huntingtown, MD is $44,492.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,700.00 and $52,100.00 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 popular job titles related to Water Operator Trainee jobs in Huntingtown, MD?

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

What cities near Huntingtown, MD are hiring for Water Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Huntingtown, MD with the most Water Operator Trainee job openings:

Water Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in Huntingtown, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,492 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Environmental Specialist Trainee - Environmental Specialist

Maryland Environmental Service

Tilghman, MD

$52K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Maryland Environmental Service rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

394th of 450 rated engineering

Job description

Current MES Employees who are interested in applying for this position must visit the Internal MES Careers Page by going to their Workday Dashboard, clicking on the Career icon and selecting Find Jobs.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading team that provides environmental solutions to the public and private sectors throughout the State of Maryland.

Job Description:

Maryland Environmental Service has an opening in the Environmental Dredging and Restoration Group for a Environmental SpecialistTrainee or Environmental Specialist atthe Paul S. Sarbanes Ecosystem Restoration Project at Poplar Island in Talbot County, Maryland.The selected candidate will be responsible forfieldwork (water quality sampling, monitoring,surveyingand invasive control),operation of sampling vessels,writing and formatting technical reports, meeting summaries, procurements,outreach activitiesandassisting withsite tours, data review and compilation,permit support,and other support tasks as required.Work may be needed on an occasional weekend or evening.The selected applicant will need to drive to field sites or labs to fulfill sampling/monitoring requirements andbe able to work in various weather and field conditions.
Environmental SpecialistTrainee:Under the direction of a supervisor, assists with collection, compilation, and review of data formonitoringoperations, construction, mitigation, and compliance as it relates toFederal, State,and local permit and regulatory requirements.Assists with the preparation of technical documents, reports, and plans.Provides entry-level scientific, technical,and planning support.Attendsproject related meetings and preparesmeeting summaries.
Environmental Specialist:Through coordination with a supervisor,executes thecollection, compilation, and review of data for monitoring operations, construction, mitigation, and compliance as it relates toFederal, State,and local permit and regulatory requirements.Preparation of technical documents. Provides scientificandtechnical support.Assists with reviewing and compiling comments on reports and data submitted by subcontractors.Attendsproject related meetings and preparesmeeting summaries. Assists with environmental documentationand permittingtechnical services.Provides procurement support.

Estimated Pay Range:

EST:$47,938.80- $65,934.96

ES: $52,743.60-$72,530.64

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance with choice of medical plan and prescription, dental, vision, and life and disability insurance options, along with flexible spending accounts

  • 401K retirement savings program with generous agency match

  • Paid vacation, personal and sick leave

  • Eleven paid holidays per year

  • Tuition assistance

Minimum Requirements:

Environmental SpecialistTrainee:A bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, ecology, biology, chemistry, geology or a related field from an accredited college or university,no prior experience required.

Environmental Specialist: In addition to the education experience listed above,a minimum of one year of experience in environmental science, regulations, engineering, or management.

Note: An applicable advanced education degree may be substituted for up to two years of experience.

Must have valid driver's license with less than 5 points and the ability to lift 50Ibs.

Preferred qualifications: Fluency in MS Office Word, Excel, and Power Point and knowledge of water quality sampling, permits, and chains of custody. Experience with writing technical reports and data management. Experience in invasive control including herbicide spraying, and wetland and upland plant identification. Experience in operating a 4WD vehicle, various field equipment, and boats. Experience interacting with the public, providing tours, and presenting information to groups of people.

This position will be openuntilfilled.

The Environmental Specialist Trainee position is eligible for on-spot, contingent offers. Candidates who apply after an on-spot offer has been extended (including internal candidates) will not be considered unless the candidate who receives the on-spot, contingent offer does not complete the process to become an MES employee.

Any offer of employment will be contingent upon successfully completing required pre-employment screens, to include full background check, drug & alcohol screening, and position appropriate physical.

Maryland Environmental Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. MES does not participate in programs that require sponsorship for work visas.

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