ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Stafford County

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

Stafford County is seeking Water Plant Operators to join our team. If you meet these qualifications, we encourage you to apply. All sections of the application must be completed in its entirety. The ...

Stafford County, VA

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

There are four levels to the Water Plant Operator positions, which offer opportunities for career growth. The hiring range for each level based on experience is: * Class IV - $25.26 to $34.74 per ...

Bedford Regional Water Authority

Be Seen First

Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Bedford, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The candidate will perform skilled and responsible work related to the efficient, safe, and compliant ...

Bedford Regional Water Authority

Be Seen First

Water Operator Trainee - Entry Level

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Bedford Regional Water Authority is seeking a Water Operator trainee to join our team. The candidate will perform skilled and responsible work related to the efficient, safe, and compliant ...

FEMA

Utility Systems Operator

Round Hill, VA

Maintaining accurate records of all phases of plant operations. Operating water treatment and sewage treatment facilities. Performing water treatment tests and measurements which require knowledge of ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... water management, air quality permits, wash out pits, treatment pits, and quarterly and annual ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... water management, air quality permits, wash out pits, treatment pits, and quarterly and annual ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... water management, air quality permits, wash out pits, treatment pits, and quarterly and annual ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... water management, air quality permits, wash out pits, treatment pits, and quarterly and annual ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia

Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$56.9K

$92.7K

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in Virginia is $56,862.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,600.00 and $65,400.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,862 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR 1ST CLASS/UF

City of Newport News

Newport News, VA • On-site

$44K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

City Of Newport News rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 856 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

WATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATOR 1ST CLASS/UF
Apply
All levels of experience will be considered. Please review the requirements of this position at all levels. Target Hiring Ranges Based on Experience: Water Treatment Plant Operator 1st Class: $56,300 - $60,500 - Water Treatment Plant Operator 2nd Class: $46,400 - $55,000 - Water Treatment Plant Operator 3rd Class: $44,400 - $45,000- Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee: $40,000 - $41,400 - SUPPLEMENTAL PAY FOR LICENSED OPERATORS! Water Treatment Plant Operators at Newport News Waterworks receive annual supplemental pay based on their Water Treatment Plant Operator (WTPO) certification level: Class I License: $10,000/year supplemental pay Class II License: $7,500/year supplemental pay Class III License: $5,000/year supplemental pay Trainee: $2,500/year supplemental pay
Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL
Location : WATERWORKS
Job Family : PROFESSIONAL
Posting Start : 03/04/2026
Posting End : 09/14/2026
link Copy Direct To Application Link '); return false;" id="Target">share

What City Of Newport News employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply