1

Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Plant Operations • Chillers • SCADA • Water Treatment • Tucson, AZ Night shift: Wed-Sat 8 ... You'll diagnose operating problems, conduct preventive maintenance, operate PLCs and SCADA systems ...

Under direction of Shift Supervisor or Plant Operator I and II, operates plant equipment including filters, kilns, ball mills, vibro mills, jet mills, screens, compressors, generators, waste water ...

Water/Wastewater Operator- Part Time

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

GHD has an exciting opportunity for a Part Time as Needed Wastewater/Water Treatment Plant Operator to be based on location in Kingman, AZ. As a Wastewater/Water Operator, you will be working with ...

Water/Wastewater Operator- Kingman, AZ

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$21.50 - $29.75/hr

GHD has an exciting opportunity for a Wastewater/Water Treatment Plant Operator to be based on location in Kingman, AZ. As a Wastewater/Water Operator, you will be working with the Contract ...

GHD has an exciting opportunity for a Wastewater/Water Treatment Plant Operator to be based on location in Kingman, AZ. As a Wastewater/Water Operator, you will be working with the Contract ...

Operating water/wastewater treatment plants, Utility mechanic, stationary engineer, refrigeration mechanic * The ability to demonstrate advanced skills in the field of plant operations. * Independent ...

SRP is one of the largest public power and water utilities in the U.S. providing electricity to ... Seeking experienced Combined Cycle power plant Control Room Operator. Preferably with GE 7FA ...

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Strong communication and coordination skills with system marketers, especially around unit commitment, plant status, and Energy Imbalance Market operations. The ECC BA Operator Trainee is expected to ...

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Strong communication and coordination skills with system marketers, especially around unit commitment, plant status, and Energy Imbalance Market operations. The ECC BA Operator Trainee is expected to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See Arizona salary details

$28K

$53.4K

$87.1K

How much do water plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in Arizona is $53,447.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $61,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a water plant operator trainee?

Water Plant Operator Trainees are entry-level professionals who learn to operate and maintain water treatment facilities. They assist experienced operators in monitoring equipment, testing water quality, and ensuring that treated water meets safety standards. Trainees typically work under supervision while they gain the knowledge and skills required to become certified water plant operators. Their responsibilities may include collecting samples, recording data, and performing basic maintenance tasks. Training often combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction, preparing them for state certification exams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water plant operator trainee?

To thrive as a Water Plant Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and the pursuit of relevant operator certification is typical for this role. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for success. These competencies ensure safe, efficient water treatment operations and compliance with regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by water plant operator trainees during their initial training period?

Water Plant Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to rotating shifts, learning complex technical procedures, and understanding strict safety and regulatory requirements. They must quickly become familiar with the operation of specialized equipment and monitoring systems, as well as develop problem-solving skills to address equipment malfunctions or water quality issues. Teamwork is essential, as trainees frequently collaborate with experienced operators and maintenance staff to ensure smooth plant operations and compliance with environmental standards.

What is the difference between Water Plant Operator Trainee vs Water Plant Operator?

AspectWater Plant Operator TraineeWater Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma; some certifications may be preferredRequires relevant certifications or licenses, such as a state water operator license
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, often in a water treatment plantFull responsibility for water treatment operations, maintenance, and safety
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning operational procedures, assisting with maintenance, gaining experienceOperating equipment, monitoring systems, ensuring water quality standards

The Water Plant Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience under supervision, while the Water Plant Operator is a fully qualified role responsible for managing water treatment processes independently.

How to get hired as a water plant operator trainee?

To become a water plant operator trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training or coursework, and sometimes a valid driver's license. Employers often require basic knowledge of water treatment processes, safety procedures, and may prefer candidates with some experience or certifications such as a state-issued water operator trainee license. Applying to municipal or private water treatment facilities and demonstrating a willingness to learn are key steps in securing a trainee position.

Is being a water plant operator trainee worth it?

A water plant operator trainee role provides hands-on experience in water treatment processes, often leading to certification and career advancement in the utility industry. The job typically involves working with control systems, monitoring water quality, and following safety protocols, making it a valuable entry-level position for those interested in public utilities and environmental management.

Is it hard to become a water plant operator trainee?

Becoming a water plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, basic technical skills, and sometimes passing a written exam. Training programs often last several months and include classroom instruction and on-the-job experience, with certifications like a state operator license usually needed for advancement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Water Plant Operator jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Water Plant Operator jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona?

For Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,447 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

WATER PLANT OPERATOR LEAD

Lake Havasu City, AZ

$31.91 - $46.27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

**WATER PLANT OPERATOR LEAD**

Lake Havasu City, AZ

Closing Date: Open until Filled

OTF26-308

Salary: $31.91-$46.27/Hourly DOQ

Trainee: $28.71/Hourly

Grade: CP11

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt                                                                                 

Department: PW/Water Treatment

INITIAL APPLICATION REVIEW WILL TAKE PLACE TWO WEEKS AFTER OPEN. INTERESTED CANDIDATES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. ADDITIONAL APPLICATION REVIEW WILL ONLY BE CONDUCTED IF NECESSARY.

Lake Havasu City is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Water Plant Operator Lead to join our Water Division team. In this essential leadership role, you'll oversee daily operations at our water treatment facility, guide and support plant operators, and ensure we continue delivering high-quality, safe drinking water to our growing community.

This is an excellent opportunity for a certified operator ready to take the next step into leadership, training, and complex system troubleshooting.

What you will do:

  • Lead and train operations staff in daily plant functions

  • Operate and monitor treatment processes, equipment, and SCADA systems

  • Perform lab testing and analyze water quality data

  • Ensure compliance with ADEQ and EPA regulations

  • Oversee preventative maintenance and coordinate repairs

  • Maintain accurate records, logs, and compliance documentation

  • Respond to emergency situations and participate in on-call rotation

TO VIEW DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION, Click Here

IDEAL CANDIDATE:

We're looking for someone who is:

  • A strong team player with excellent time management and communication skills.

  • Experienced in a lead position at a potable water treatment plant.

  • A natural leader who inspires others and builds strong community relationships

  • Exceptionally organized, detail-oriented, and committed to excellence

  • Knowledge of regulatory requirements for water quality. 

REQUIREMENTS

  • High School Diploma

  • 3-5 years' experience in utility plant operations and maintenance, or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

  • Possession of Grade III Water Treatment and Grade IV Water Treatment Certification issued by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) at hire.

  • Possession of a valid Commercial Driver License Class B with a Tanker Endorsement is preferred.

The selected candidate who does not possess the required certification will be considered a trainee at the time of hire.

Position may also require one (1) or more of the following certifications depending on assignment:

Confined Space Certification.

Lock-out/tag-out

Forklift Certification.

Hazardous Materials Certification

Lake Havasu City offers an exceptional benefits package for full-time (FTE) Employees: 

    Employer-provided Medical/Rx (EPO or HDHP)

    Dental/Vision

    Wellness Program

    Employee Assistance Program

    Flexible Spending Account/Health Savings Account

    Employer-Provided Basic Life Insurance

    Optional Additional Life Insurance

    Optional Insurance-Critical Illness, Hospitalization, Indemnity

    11 Paid Holidays Annually

    Bereavement Leave

    Paid Vacation 

    Short Term Disability 

    Long Term Disability

    Opportunities for advancement

    Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)

    Optional Deferred Compensation

    Tuition Reimbursement

    Service Awards

Additional Comments

Lake Havasu City is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. 

Applicants for employment opportunities should be aware of the Lake Havasu City policies concerning the use of drugs and alcohol. These policies have not been altered by the passage of Proposition 207. The use of recreational marijuana is a violation of the City's Drug Free Workplace Policy. All positions within the City are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test. A positive result for drugs tested under the policy, including recreational marijuana, may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment. 

The City reserves the right to consider only the most highly qualified applicants. The succeeding examination processes may be required: training and experience, testing, panel interview, employment eligibility verification (EEV) requirements, personnel evaluation profile (PEP), polygraph test, background investigation, and alcohol/drug screening test. Appointment subject to successful background investigation and City-paid post-employment medical examination after offer of employment has been made.

Lake Havasu City sits comfortably on the eastern shore of Lake Havasu along the Colorado River border of California and Arizona. The city was established in 1963 by Robert P. McCulloch, Sr. as a self-sufficient, planned community.

Lake Havasu City is located on what is known as "Arizona's West Coast," just 3 hours west of Phoenix, 2 hours south of Las Vegas and 4-5 hours east of the Los Angeles area. As part of the northern and western limits of the Sonoran Desert, Lake Havasu City and the surrounding area feature outstanding biodiversity absolutely loaded with beautiful experiences.