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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Regenerate Water Softener and De-alkalizer Resin - Monitor water softener and de-alkalize quality ... All Power Plant Operators work weekends, holidays and overtime as needed NOTE: This original ...

Power Plant Operator - CRC

Franklin, WI · On-site

$32.01 - $48.01/hr

Regenerate Water Softener and De-alkalizer Resin - Monitor water softener and de-alkalize quality ... All Power Plant Operators work weekends, holidays and overtime as needed NOTE: This original ...

Filter Plant Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$34.40 - $37.12/hr

Water Utility Filtration Plant, 6183 Finger Road, Luxemburg, WI Job Type: Full-time Job Number: 202600021 Department: Water Utility Division: WATER FP-OPERATOR Opening Date: 03/11/2026 General ...

General Description Help keep our community's drinking water safe and reliable. We're looking for a skilled Filter Plant Operator to join our team. Under general supervision, operates filtration and ...

Plant Operator

Menomonie, WI · On-site

$27.52/hr

... water filtration, and sports and recreation. Long-standing relationships with a broad customer base ... The Plant Operator is accountable to ensure the safe and productive operation of the plant and must ...

Plant Operator

Menomonie, WI · On-site

$27.52/hr

... water filtration, and sports and recreation. Long-standing relationships with a broad customer base ... The Plant Operator is accountable to ensure the safe and productive operation of the plant and must ...

Plant Operator

Oak Creek, WI

$28.72 - $35.90/hr

The Plant Operator is responsible for ensuring raw materials are properly received, stored, and ... exposure to water and wet conditions • Local travel required Physical Requirements: • ...

WI · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

... operating team to support good relations and coordinate efforts * Make suggestions to improve plant ... Performs routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking oil, water, and tires

WI · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

... water for our customers. In our capacity as a natural gas processor, we also buy and sell natural ... Execute startup, shut down and operating procedures for engines, compressors, furnaces ...

... operating team to support good relations and coordinate efforts * Make suggestions to improve plant ... Performs routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking oil, water, and tires

Sr Plant Operator

Delavan, WI · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

... operating team to support good relations and coordinate efforts * Make suggestions to improve plant ... Performs routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking oil, water, and tires

Sr Plant Operator

Delavan, WI · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

... operating team to support good relations and coordinate efforts * Make suggestions to improve plant ... Performs routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking oil, water, and tires

WI · On-site

$65 - $100/hr

... operating team to support good relations and coordinate efforts * Make suggestions to improve plant ... Performs routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking oil, water, and tires

Sr Plant Operator

Delavan, WI · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

... operating team to support good relations and coordinate efforts * Make suggestions to improve plant ... Performs routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking oil, water, and tires

... operating team to support good relations and coordinate efforts * Make suggestions to improve plant ... Performs routine inspection and maintenance on vehicles such as checking oil, water, and tires

Showing results 21-40

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 5, 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.

Power Plant Operator - CRC

mkecounty

Franklin, WI

$32.01 - $48.01/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Power Plant Operator

Department: Community Reintegration Center

Full-time, Hourly
Hourly Range $32.01 - $48.01/hr

 

Job Summary: The Power Plant Operator ensures an efficient and safe operation of the steam plant through oversight of all the equipment within the steam plant. Provide the Community Reintegration Center with steam for sufficient heat and hot water. Provide steam for various departments (i.e., kitchen, laundry, maintenance) to support the mission of the Community Reintegration Center.

Job Responsibilities

  • Operate High-Pressure Steam Plant - Start, shift, operate/monitor and secure boilers and auxiliary equipment. Recognize abnormal conditions and take corrective action. Inspect and record hourly parameters of operating equipment. Perform boiler bottom and surface blowdowns.
  • Perform Daily Chemical Test Analyses - Chemical test operating boilers, water softener, reverse osmosis, feed water and various condensate systems. Analyze test results. Fill two chemical tanks and adjust chemical pump settings to maintain boiler alkalinity, phosphate and sulfite level as dictated by test results.
  • Regenerate Water Softener and De-alkalizer Resin - Monitor water softener and de-alkalize quality output. Initiate regeneration, monitor and log process when system quality is depleted. Lift, carry and add 80 lb. salt bags to softener and de-alkalize brine tanks to maintain 100% salinity level.
  • Perform Planned Maintenance - Perform daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, semi-annual and annual planned maintenance duties on boilers and auxiliary equipment as assigned.
  • Maintain Adequate Nitrogen Pressure on Standby Boilers - Transport full/empty nitrogen cylinders to/from Powerhouse at time of delivery. Monitor, maintain and adjust nitrogen system to maintain adequate pressure on standby boiler as per log sheet. Replace depleted nitrogen cylinders as needed.
  • Monitor METASYS Building Automation and Deep Well Pump Systems - Monitor, acknowledge and report METASYS building automation alarms as dictated by alarm status. Inspect and monitor deep well pumping system to supply water for Fish Hatchery. Inspect pumps, piping, and valves for leaks or abnormalities, reporting abnormalities to Supervisor.
  • Maintain a Clean Work Environment - Complete all assigned daily cleaning duties of the Powerhouse.
  • General Facilities Maintenance – Address requests generated through work orders or other communications means by staff for facilities maintenance service or repairs throughout the campus.
  • Miscellaneous Duties - Maintain accurate logs and records. Convey steam plant status to relief. Tighten valve packing leaks. Replace leaking boiler sight glass and packing. Transport chemical delivery (chemical drums) to Powerhouse. Complete assigned Powerhouse shift orders.
  • Ability to safely and properly operate: boilers and auxiliary equipment, power tools, hand tools, chemical test lab equipment, gauges and computers.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 80 lbs.; and push and pull 200+ lbs.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Required Education, License/Certification and Experience

  • Current residency within the State of Wisconsin upon application required
  • Valid Wisconsin Driver’s License required upon application and must be maintained throughout incumbency
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalency required
  • One (1) year or more of work experience operating High-pressure Boilers or Steam Plants required
  • Possession of one of the following licenses or permits required upon application: NIULPE 4th Class Stationary Engineer license OR ASOPE 2nd Class license OR City of Milwaukee High-Pressure Boiler Operator's permit (higher-class permits accepted) required
  • The steam plant operates 24/7 and 365 days/year. Must have the ability to multi-task (perform additional/required duties while operating boilers/steam plant entire shift)
  • All Power Plant Operators can be assigned to work any shift as needed
  • All Power Plant Operators work weekends, holidays and overtime as needed

 

NOTE: This original application is open to residents of the State of Wisconsin at the time of application. In accordance with Section 11, Rule 3 of the Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of Human Resources. APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT THE TIME OF FILING AN APPLICATION.

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