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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Miami, FL (NOW HIRING)

Upon obtaining a Class "C" water or wastewater plant operators license from the Florida Department of Professional Regulation - $50,675/yr Upon obtaining a Class "B" water or wastewater plant ...

Water Operator Trainee information

See Miami, FL salary details

$24.4K

$41.6K

$60.7K

How much do water operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operator trainee in Miami, FL is $41,634.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,600.00 and $48,800.00 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 job categories do people searching Water Operator Trainee jobs in Miami, FL look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Operator Trainee jobs in Miami, FL are:

What cities near Miami, FL are hiring for Water Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Miami, FL with the most Water Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in Miami, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,634 per year, or $20 per hour.

Plant Operator Trainee - Water

Town of Davie

Davie, FL โ€ข On-site

$43K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description Under direct supervision, performs skilled and semi-skilled technical work while being trained in the operation of a water or sewer treatment plant. Is responsible for learning the duties involved in plant operation, necessary laboratory analysis, established procedures, and routine maintenance and servicing of equipment and machinery under the guidance of a Plant Operator I or II. Reports to Chief Operator or designee.

Minimum Requirements (Must meet by the closing date of the posting unless otherwise stated) All applicants must: Possess a High School or GED equivalent. 18 years of age at time of application. Valid Florida Drivers License.

Acceptable driving record. Driver's license must not have been suspended within five (5) years of the date of this application (Not Insurance related). Obtain Class "C" Wastewater or Water License from the State of Florida within eighteen (18) months of employment.

Preferred Requirements: Students in the Florida Rural Water Association (FRWA) Apprenticeship program. Salary: Upon obtaining a Class "C" water or wastewater plant operators license from the Florida Department of Professional Regulation - $50,675/yr Upon obtaining a Class "B" water or wastewater plant operators license from the Florida Department of Professional Regulation - $57,003/yr It is the responsibility of the candidate to obtain and maintain their license and/or certifications as a job requirement. Information regarding licenses and certifications.

The Town will reimburse employees for licensure classes, continuing education, and license renewals. Information about the licensing process: https://floridadep.gov/water/certification-restoration/content/water-and-domestic-wastewater-operator-certification https://floridadep.gov/water/certification-restoration/documents/operator-certification-program-handbook https://www.frwa.net/career-information Essential Functions Operates and maintains equipment in the plant, including inspecting, oiling and maintaining motors, pumps, screens, gauges and meters. Reads flow meter charts and logs readings

Takes samples for laboratory analysis. Makes minor repairs to plant equipment and assists with major or more complex repairs of machinery and equipment. Skims primary and secondary tanks; washes and changes filters; and adds chemicals according to prescribed standards.

Maintains a daily log of plant operations. Assists in maintaining a daily inventory of chemicals used. Operates a variety of motorized equipment such as forklifts or town vehicles.

Reports immediately, in person or via telephone, any serious plant breakdown or condition causing or likely to cause serious, inefficient or unsafe treatment plant operation or discharge of water or wastewater in a manner not authorized by the applicable regulatory agencies. Submits complete, accurate reports relative to treatment plant operation, sampling and laboratory analysis on a daily basis. Performs various custodial duties to assist in maintaining treatment plants.

Performs other related work as required. Supplemental Information Current Benefits: Health Insurance 100% paid by the Town for single coverage, 50% paid by the Town for dependents. Leave: Holidays - 13 days per year.

Sick Leave - 3.69 hours accrued per pay period Vacation Leave - Accrue 2 weeks per year, accrual rate increases every 5 years (capped at 4 weeks after 10 years of service). Birthday Leave - 1 day per year after successfully passing probation Quality Service - 1 day per year after successfully passing probation and other conditions. Wellness Days - 2 days per year after successfully passing probation

Pension/Retirement: Town Sponsored Pension - mandatory 3% contributions per pay period. 457 Deferred Compensation Plan- Employee is entitled to make voluntary contributions through the payroll to the Town sponsored 457 deferred compensation plan only. Uniforms: Provided by the Department.

PLEASE READ THE BELOW IMPORTANT INFORMATION APPLICATION ASSISTANCE/INFORMATION: Licenses/Certifications: If a positon requires a license and/or certification, it is the responsibility of the candidate to obtain and maintain them as a condition and continuation of employment. Foreign Credentials (Degrees, Diplomas and/or Transcripts: Original credential evaluation reports showing the United States equivalency for academic credentials earned in other countries must be provided. Click the following link for a list of credentialed agencies: https://www.fldoe.org/teaching/certification/foreign-trained-grads/approved-credential-evaluation-agencie.stml Status Updates/Communication: please ensure your email address is valid and you continuously check this account for any status updates from the Department

Incomplete fields: all fields must be completed, putting "see resume" on the application will not suffice. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Required documentation: copies of any certifications, licenses or competencies from an accredited institution must be submitted with your application by closing date of posting unless otherwise stated.

Military personnel records: to request your completed military personnel record, go to archives.gov E-Verify: Candidates will be required to verify employment by submitting acceptable documents as evidence of identity and employment authorization. Assistance with online application: for assistance with your online applicant account, use the online Help Guide or contact the Applicants Support Line at 855-524-5627 or Email: support@governmentjobs.com. Applicant Support is available between 9:00 a.m

and 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Additional assistance: for other inquiries, please contact the Human Resources Department at (954) 797-1100

REGULATIONS/ACCOMMODATIONS EEO Policy: it is the policy of the Town to prohibit discrimination in hiring, promotion, compensation, discharge, and all terms and conditions of employment on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, gender identity(inclusive of a person's actual or perceived sex, and includes self-image, appearance behavior or expression, whether or not different from that traditionally associated with legal sex assigned to the person at birth), marital status, military status, political affiliation, genetic information, sexual orientation, or retaliation for reporting same. Tobacco Policy: the Town of Davie has a policy that requires employees hired on or after January 4, 2016 to be a non-user of tobacco products six (6) months prior to their employment with the Town as well as commit to non-usage during their employment. Candidates for employment who are impacted by the Town of Davie's Smoking Policy will be permitted to reapply for open positions after six (6) months.

Reasonable Accommodations: applicants requesting reasonable accommodation during the job application process may contact the Human Resources Department at (954) 797-1100. E-Verify: the Town of Davie participates in E-Verify. Federal Law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

For more information on E-Verify, please contact 1-888-897-7781. Veterans' Preference: the Town of Davie will grant Veterans' Preference to eligible veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States in compliance with applicable federal and state laws concerning Veterans' Preference. Eligible applicants must submit a DD-214 Member 4 form and Veterans' Preference form.

Essential Employees: Employees may be required to work during emergency events/situations as determined by supervisor.