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Water Operator Trainee Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Coach Operator Trainee

Vancouver, WA ยท On-site

$26.76 - $35.82/hr

Coach Operator Trainee Job Code: Job Code: CCHTRN Pay Range: $26.76 - $35.82 FLSA Non-Exempt ... May include warming up and checking tires, oil, water, and other items. * Operates a passenger ...

Coach Operator Trainee Job Code: Job Code: CCHTRN Pay Range: $26.76 - $35.82 FLSA Non-Exempt ... May include warming up and checking tires, oil, water, and other items. * Operates a passenger ...

The Current Operator Trainee Part Time Job Code: Job Code: TCOTPT Pay Range: $26.76 - $35.82 JOB ... May include warming up and checking tires, oil, water, and other items. Operates a passenger ...

Water Operator Trainee information

See Portland, OR salary details

$27K

$46.2K

$67.3K

How much do water operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operator trainee in Portland, OR is $46,164.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,000.00 and $54,100.00 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 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.

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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Water Operator Trainee jobs in Portland, OR? For Water Operator Trainee jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator Trainee jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator Trainee jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,164 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Coach Operator Trainee

C-TRAN

Vancouver, WA โ€ข On-site

$26.76 - $35.82/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Position Title:
Coach Operator Trainee
Job Code:
Job Code: CCHTRN
Pay Range:
$26.76 - $35.82
Job Description:
FLSA Non-Exempt
Represented
Summary
Work includes the operation of a transit passenger bus on an assigned route with a predetermined schedule, or any other special service as required. Work is performed without direct supervision and is reviewed by a supervisor through frequent inspection of on-duty performance and review of comments from the public. Typical duties include monitoring the collection of pre-established fares, collecting valid transfers from boarding passengers, and issuing transfers upon request in accordance with established regulations. Operators are expected to answer inquiries from the public concerning bus routes and time schedules. Work also includes the responsibility for efficient and safe operation of assigned buses. Employees in this class must observe traffic rules and regulations. Independent judgment of operation is also an important element of work.
Scope of Responsibility
Responsible for the efficient and safe operation of a transit passenger bus on an assigned route with predetermined schedule or any other special service as required.
Essential Functions
The following summarizes the essential or key responsibilities/attributes of the position the incumbent will be required to perform with or without reasonable accommodation:
  • Responsible for the efficient and safe operation of assigned bus and to ensure the bus is in safe mechanical operating condition. May include warming up and checking tires, oil, water, and other items.
  • Operates a passenger transit bus along an assigned route and on a predetermined published time schedule.
  • Makes stops at designated points along an assigned route for the purpose of picking up and discharging passengers.
  • Monitors fare collection, checks passes, collects valid transfers from boarding passengers, and issues transfers upon request, in accordance with regulations.
  • Answers inquiries from passengers regarding routes and schedules.
  • Completes in writing any revenue or operational reports and forms as required.
  • Completes accident reports if involved in a vehicle accident or has an injury on the bus.
  • Assists in boarding, deboarding, and securing non-ambulatory passengers.
  • May assist passengers out of the bus in emergency situations.

Other Functions
  • May be required to attend training, retraining, or other informational meetings as necessary.
  • May be required to manually cycle lift if not properly operating.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of
  • Some knowledge of the operations and maintenance requirements of various types of buses is desirable.
  • Traffic laws, ordinances, rules, and driving courtesies involved in transit bus operations is desirable.

Skill in
  • Must have good public relations skills

Ability to
  • Safely operate a passenger bus in accordance with traffic and ordinances.
  • Learn general geographic layout of the service area is required.
  • Complete required forms and written reports related to the operation of a transit vehicle is required.

Physical Requirements
  • The ability to climb stairs, sit, reach, twist, bend, pull, push, and lift.

Additional Requirements
  • Regular, dependable attendance required.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license from state of residence and maintain a good driving record. A commercial driver's license (Class B) will be required within a specified time frame, determined by the supervisor, to maintain this position.
  • Must be able to comply with C-TRAN's nonsmoking policy and function in a nonsmoking work environment. Smoking is not allowed on vehicles, within close proximity of the vehicle, or while assisting the passengers between the vehicle and the doorway.
  • Must promote and model safety within the department and agencywide through reporting and addressing safety issues, supporting safety campaigns, maintaining a safe work area, assisting in safety training documentation, and certification record keeping.
  • Must pass an employment physical examination and drug test to be certified for the position and be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • This is a safety sensitive position subject to Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations.

Amalgamated Transit Union
This position is covered under the provisions of an agreement with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 757.
Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.
If selected for the position, documentation that you are a United States citizen, or an alien lawfully authorized to work in the United States will be required to establish your identity and work authorization in accordance with the employer's obligation under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.
Criminal Background Investigation.
If selected for this position, employment will be conditional, pending completion of a criminal background investigation.
Public Disclosure Policy No. 510
All employees are required to retain public records, in accordance with C-TRAN's Public Disclosure Policy No. 510. A public record is defined in RCW 42.56.010(3) as any writing that is prepared, owned, used, or retained by any state or local government agency, and which contains information that relates to the conduct of government, or the performance of any governmental or proprietary function. The term "writing" is broadly defined in the Public Records Act, to include not only traditional written records, but also photos, maps, videos, voicemails, webpage and social media content, emails, text messages and tweets (RCW 42.56.010(4)).
The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive list of work requirements. Individuals may perform other assigned duties, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance the workload.
Our EEO Policy
CTRAN is an equal opportunity employer (Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans). We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.