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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Water Plant Operator SWL&P - 12 hr

Superior, WI ยท On-site

$45.44 - $50.49/hr

Non Exempt Water Plant Operator - 12 Hour $45.44 - $50.49 | On Site RESPONSIBILITIES: * This is a technical position involved in and responsible for the safe and efficient operation and maintenance ...

WI ยท On-site

$55 - $75/hr

Plant Operator/Operator Trainees operate and monitor auxiliary equipment and systems which support ... Ability to perform routine laboratory tests and analysis on boiler water and make-up demineralizer ...

Posted today

The Plant Operator investigates abnormal operating conditions, initiates corrective action ... water and adding chemicals as required, and performing the necessary actions to achieve safe and ...

Plant Operator

Oak Creek, WI ยท On-site

$54.31/hr

The Plant Operator investigates abnormal operating conditions, initiates corrective action ... water and adding chemicals as required, and performing the necessary actions to achieve safe and ...

Plant Operator

Oak Creek, WI ยท On-site

$54.31/hr

The Plant Operator investigates abnormal operating conditions, initiates corrective action ... water and adding chemicals as required, and performing the necessary actions to achieve safe and ...

... operating mobile equipment, and plant equipment, and working in the wash and dry plant running the ... assisting trainees and/or interns.Primary Responsibilities and Duties * Operate all equipment ...

... operating mobile equipment, and plant equipment, and working in the wash and dry plant running the ... trainees and/or interns. Primary Responsibilities and Duties * Operate all equipment associated ...

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Showing results 1-20

Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See Wisconsin salary details

$30.3K

$57.9K

$94.4K

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in Wisconsin is $57,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,400.00 and $66,600.00 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,890 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Plant Operator Trainee

Dairyland Power Cooperative

Alma, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE (ALMA, WI)
The Plant Operator Trainee is responsible to timely complete all training requirements leading to the Plant Operator position, while performing the essential job functions of steps as completed.
The Impact You'll Make In This Role:
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
This list is developed to show the level of duties normally performed by this classification. This list is not an all-encompassing list of duties.
1. Perform maintenance during outages.
2. Perform housekeeping activities to keep the plant clean, orderly, and free from hazards.
3. Perform other duties as assigned. Attain a thorough working knowledge of equipment, procedures, policies, and safety rules by active participation in training programs.
4. Complete requirements as Plant Operator Trainee Area III and be responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation and surveillance of designated turbine/generator auxiliaries, steam generator auxiliaries and other assigned plant auxiliary equipment per the Operator training program.
5. Complete requirements as Plant Operator Trainee Area II and be responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation and surveillance of the turbine/generator, steam generator and other assigned plant auxiliary systems per the Operator training program.
6. Complete requirements as Plant Operator Trainee Area I and be responsible for the coordinated operation of the turbine generator and steam generator in a safe, reliable, and efficient manner per the Operator training program.
7. Required to be capable of performing the following operational functions: Operate manual and automatic valves that could range in size from ยผ" to 24" and range in pressure from negative to 2,000 PSI. Be able to distinguish colors, especially the difference between red, green, and yellow. Be able to use tools such as long handled scrapers to clean coal systems. Must be able to identify differences in sound levels to find equipment problems. Operate electrical switches and breakers up to 24,000 volts.
8. Initiates maintenance request for repair of equipment.
9. As you become qualified, rotate through the operating areas routinely to maintain knowledge of plant systems.
10. Assist with drafting and updating operating procedures by reviewing, editing and initiating as needed.
11. Responsible for understanding and following DPC policies, plant operating policies and procedures, lockout/tagout procedure, environmental guidelines, safety programs, Hazardous Substance Emergency Plan and all state and federal reporting and permit requirements.
Your Experience and Expertise:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education & Experience: (Internal Candidates) - Associate Degree or two (2) year diploma in directly related field or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be considered.
Applicant must have a background in industrial operations, computer software, maintenance, electrical or instrumentation and possess basic mechanical, critical thinking and reading comprehension skills. Applicant must complete a state-approved Plant Operator apprenticeship program within three (3) years of entering the position.
(External Candidates) - Associate Degree or two (2) year diploma in directly related field or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be considered.
Applicant must have a background in industrial operations, computer software, maintenance, electrical or instrumentation and possess basic mechanical, critical thinking and reading comprehension skills. Applicant must complete a state-approved Plant Operator apprenticeship program within three (3) years of entering the position.
Skills: Must be able to read and understand procedures, blueprints, and technical information. Must be computer literate and be able to navigate through windows-based programs.
Licenses and Certifications: Valid driver's license.
Physical Demands: Sitting, standing, kneeling, crouching, crawling, twisting upper body, walking, bending, reaching, stretching, writing, hearing, speaking, seeing, fingering, grasping, climbing (stairs, ladders, sky climber, confined spaces), pushing, pulling, lifting (up to 75 pounds; 40 pounds frequently). Become trained and operate scissor lifts and forklifts as required. Must have the ability to wear protective equipment (safety glasses, hard hat, respirators, etc.). Must have the ability to become respirator certified.
Environmental Demands: Work indoors and outdoors, occasionally in extreme cold, heat, and temperature swings, and often in extreme noise. Work around mechanical and electrical hazards, and occasionally work around fumes/odors, dust, chemical and toxic waste hazards.
Other Job Characteristics: Team-oriented crews working rotating shifts. Off-duty availability. Frequent interaction with co-workers. Work overtime as required.