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Water Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a Plant Operator Trainee, you will gain hands-on experience in water treatment operations while working alongside experienced operators and technical professionals in a highly structured and ...

Waste Water Operator

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... Trainee Program At Pilgrim's, Safety Is A Condition , which means the safety of our team members ... POSITION SUMMARY: The Bi-Product and Wastewater Utility Operator is responsible for the daily ...

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Water Operator Trainee information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do water operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for water operator trainee in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

More about Water Operator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Water Operator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Operator jobs? The most popular types of Water Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Water Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Operator Trainee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Water Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Water Treatment Plant Operator / Trainee

City of Brenham, TX

Brenham, TX • On-site

$17.43/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Summary

Assists with performing various tests and operating and maintaining various plant equipment associated with the treatment of raw surface water for general consumption.

Starting Pay for Operator Trainee: $17.43 per hour

Starting Pay for Operator I: $19.21 per hour (already has Class C Surface Water Certificate)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities for Trainee include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Assists with treating raw lake water for general consumption, including operating SCADA computer system and performing various chemical tests throughout each day to determine water pH levels, chlorine levels, ammonia levels, and levels of various chemicals in the water;
  • Assists with checking and maintaining water levels in the water storage facilities, including checking flow rates;
  • Assists with monitoring flow rate through plant to determine water usage;
  • Assists with operating and maintaining various plant equipment;
  • Assists with monitoring clarifiers for accuracy and speed, as well as blanket and chemical levels; and
  • Performs mowing and grounds maintenance at plant.

This position has varied shifts; including evenings, weekends and holidays.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This is a non-supervisory position.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

High school graduation or its equivalent; or any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Knowledge Of

Standard office practices and procedures.

Skill/Ability To

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public; communicate effectively; and read and understand manuals, policies, and other documents; operate, maintain, and repair mechanical equipment.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

Valid Texas Driver's License. Obtain Class D Water license within 120 days of hire; obtain Class C Surface Water Treatment certification within 3 years of hire.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to engage in moderate to strenuous physical activity, work with tools and equipment, perform repetitive motions, perform work involving the entire body, stand, and walk and balance on all types of surfaces. The employee is required to bend from the waist, crouch or squat, kneel, sit, crawl, climb, twist, and reach with arms and hands. The employee is required perform job duties from various heights, lift and/or move objects weighing up to 50 pounds, such as materials and equipment, and must carry, push, and pull materials. The employee must be able to see clearly, with or without vision correction, in close situations, at a distance, and peripherally, and be able to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The work environment requires that the employee exercise caution at all times and adhere to safety standards to avoid the risk of personal injury. The employee is exposed to outdoor elements, loud noises, vibrations, and respiratory hazards such as dust, gases, chemicals, and bacteria. The employee may be required to work in confined spaces around gas, water, and sewer lines. The work environment is noisy and distracting.


All offers of employment shall be made contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment background and other screenings, as determined by the City of Brenham. Depending on the requirements of the position, the following background and pre-employment screening(s) may be conducted:

  • Criminal Background
  • Driver's License History
  • Drug Screening
  • Physical
  • Respirator Medical Evaluation
  • Skills Testing for Required Skills/Job Duties
  • Employment Verification
  • Reference Checks
  • Public Safety Background Investigation
  • Verification of Education

Job Posted by ApplicantPro