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Water Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chevron

Operator Trainee

Belle Chasse, LA

Specialty Operations business unit is accepting applications for Operator Trainee positions located ... water treatment systems. * Prepare equipment for maintenance activities and handle minor ...

Chevron

Operator Trainee

Belle Chasse, LA · On-site

Specialty Operations business unit is accepting applications for Operator Trainee positions located ... water treatment systems. * Prepare equipment for maintenance activities and handle minor ...

Team 360 Staffing

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Operator Trainee

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a reliable and motivated Operator Trainee to assist in the setup and ... Water-based flexographic ink * pH adjuster * Antifoam * Myer Ameri-clear Qualifications ...

Indygo

Bus Operator Trainee

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$18.50 - $24.53/hr

Position Title: Bus Operator Trainee Safety Sensitive: Yes Supervisor's Title: Manager of ... We call it "mobility." It's as essential as access to electricity and clean water. It moves a city ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Cary, NC · On-site

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... FO Trainee - * Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Winchester, VA · On-site

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... FO Trainee - * Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 ...

Aqua

Facility Operator Trainee

Winchester, VA

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... FO Trainee - * Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 ...

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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:
What job categories do people searching Water Operator Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Operator Trainee jobs are:
Water Operator Trainee jobs near you
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 Distribution Operator - Trainee

City of Goose Creek, SC

Goose Creek, SC • On-site

$44.72K - $49.30K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Description
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Assists with the maintenance and repair of the City's water distribution system and associated facilities.
  • Installs and repairs water service lines, water meters, meter boxes, main line valves, and fire hydrants.
  • Assists with the installation of water service taps.
  • Records readings from water meters using a hand-held computer.
  • Takes manual readings from water meters and records data accurately.
  • Responds and coordinates with construction companies within City limits on current projects.
  • Responds, investigates, and acts on customer inquiries and complaints.
  • Operates heavy machinery, construction equipment, and commercial vehicles utilized in the operation and maintenance of the water distribution system.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • One (1) year of work experience that includes semi-skilled mechanical/maintenance responsibilities; including contact with the public.
  • Any combination of education and experience totaling two (2) years may be considered.
  • Valid South Carolina Driver's License.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Knowledge of methods and practices used in the operational and maintenance functions of public water supply and distribution facilities.
  • Knowledge of the methods and practices used in repairing and maintaining water transmission systems.
  • Ability to operate and utilize machinery and equipment related to water distribution system maintenance and repair, such as backhoe, power wrenches, power saws, excavator.
  • Ability to utilize basic computer word processing and spreadsheet applications for the purpose of record keeping.
  • Ability to accurately record and interpret water meter and pressure gauge readings.
  • Ability to use and understand basic mathematical concepts such as: adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, simple fractions and percentages.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers.
  • Ability to develop and maintain positive public relations with a strong emphasis on customer service.
  • Ability to respond to emergencies 24 hours per day and to serve in an on-call status.
  • Ability to become a Water Distribution Operator I within one (1) year.

WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work is typically performed outdoors. Employee is exposed to noise, dirt, grease, irritating chemicals, insects and inclement weather. Weekly exposure to extreme temperature, wetness and/or humidity. Daily exposure to mechanical hazards. Weekly exposure to chemical hazards. Monthly exposure to electrical hazards, fire hazards, and communicable diseases. The work requires the use of protective devices including be not limited to safety shoes, eye protection, hearing protection, and gloves.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work requires exerting more than 100 pounds of force occasionally and in excess of 50 pounds of force to move objects and the following physical abilities: balancing, climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, fingering, grasping, handling, hearing, kneeling, lifting, mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, talking, visual acuity, and walking.
MENTAL DEMANDS
Frequently requires time pressures, frequent change of tasks, performing multiple tasks simultaneously, noisy/distracting environment, and working closely with others as part of a team. Occasionally requires emergency situations, irregular schedule/overtime, and tedious or exacting work.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
The City of Goose Creek is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the primary job functions herein described. Prospective and current employees should contact Human Resources to request an ADA accommodation.
DISCLAIMER
Since every duty associated with this position may not be described herein, employees may be required to perform duties not specifically spelled out in the job description, but which may be reasonably considered to be incidental in the performing of their duties just as though they were written out in this job description.
The City reserves the right to revise this position description at any time.

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