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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Decatur, AL

Bunge North America

Packaging Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$26.59/hr

... heights, around water, or in confined spacesAbility to work outdoors in all weather ... plant-based oils, fats, and proteins. We work alongside our customers at both ends of the value ...

Bunge

Packaging Operator

Decatur, AL

$26.59/hr

Ability to work at heights, around water, or in confined spaces * Ability to work outdoors in all ... plant-based oils, fats, and proteins. We work alongside our customers at both ends of the value ...

Bunge

Packaging Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

$26.59/hr

Ability to work at heights, around water, or in confined spaces * Ability to work outdoors in all ... plant-based oils, fats, and proteins. We work alongside our customers at both ends of the value ...

Huntsville Botanical Garden

Gardener

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Plant Science & Conservation Supervisor: Area Supervisors Supervises: N/A FLSA Salary ... Weeding, mulching, watering, cultivating, and fertilizing. Under the direction of the area ...

Huntsville Botanical Garden

Gardener

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Plant Science & Conservation Supervisor: Area Supervisors Supervises: N/A FLSA Salary ... Weeding, mulching, watering, cultivating, and fertilizing. Under the direction of the area ...

Huntsville Botanical Garden

Gardener

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Plant Science & Conservation Supervisor: Area Supervisors Supervises: N/A FLSA Salary ... Weeding, mulching, watering, cultivating, and fertilizing. Under the direction of the area ...

AIDT

Facilities Maintenance Team Member

Madison, AL · On-site

$35.50 - $46.50/hr

... plant in Huntsville, Alabama. Mazda Toyota Manufacturing USA wants you to become part of our team ... Waste Water Pre-Treatment will focus on collecting samples on industrial waste streams to perform ...

First Solar

Process Technician (Night Crew)

Trinity, AL

$18.56 - $25.96/hr

Ensure recycling, wastewater treatment and ultra-pure water generation processes are running on ... Properly collect, label, and store hazardous waste within the manufacturing plant and assist with ...

First Solar

Process Technician (Night Crew)

Trinity, AL · On-site

$18.56 - $25.96/hr

Ensure recycling, wastewater treatment and ultra-pure water generation processes are running on ... Properly collect, label, and store hazardous waste within the manufacturing plant and assist with ...

kgs

Utility Plant Shift Lead

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

... water chemistry. * Make periodic inspections of all engineering systems and equipment and monitoring equipment operations, maintain equipment operating logs and operational reports as required.

Koniag, Inc.

Utility Plant Shift Lead

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

... water chemistry. * Make periodic inspections of all engineering systems and equipment and monitoring equipment operations, maintain equipment operating logs and operational reports as required.

kgs

Utility Plant Shift Lead

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

... water chemistry. * Make periodic inspections of all engineering systems and equipment and monitoring equipment operations, maintain equipment operating logs and operational reports as required.

Alamo Group

Director of Manufacturing

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... storm water runoff (PM-10) management To apply for this position and see our products go to www ... strategies, operating plans, and budgets aligned with plant growth objectives. * Drive lean ...

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All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Decatur, AL

Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$28.1K

$53.8K

$87.7K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in Decatur, AL is $53,766.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,200.00 and $61,900.00 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 popular job titles related to Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Decatur, AL?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL 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 Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,766 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Maintenance Mechanic - Wastewater Treatment Plant

Decatur, AL • On-site

Decatur Utilities
Utilities • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Decatur Utilitiesexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Maintenance Mechanic - Wastewater Treatment Plant
Department: Maintenance
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Wastewater Treatment Plant
Reporting To: WWTP Superintendent
Description
Repairs and maintains machinery and mechanical equipment such as pumps of all types and design, engines, electric motors, valves, piping, electronic controls and chemical feed systems at the water/wastewater treatment plant facilities.
Key Responsibilities
A commitment to safety, providing reliable utility services, protecting public health and providing excellent customer service are the responsibilities of all job positions at Decatur Utilities. We believe that teamwork, open communication, honesty, integrity, fairness, diversity and respect for each other are essential traits to perform all job duties.
  • Performs maintenance and preventive maintenance on all water and wastewater equipment in a manner to insure safe and efficient use of personnel, materials, supplies and equipment.
  • Keeps a daily log of work inspection and maintenance activities.
  • Reads and interprets manufacturer's instructions, blueprints and engineering drawings.
  • Inspects and monitors all water and wastewater pumping stations to insure proper operation.
  • Assists Maintenance Supervisor in developing quality standards for plants and pumping stations maintenance.
  • Recommends changes in methods and procedures, investigates equipment failures and diagnoses maintenance problems.
  • Provides a daily check on all plant and pumping station equipment.
  • Performs or assists in preventive and corrective maintenance on vehicles and mowing equipment.
  • Verifies and is responsible for the proper storage of all incoming shipments of plant equipment.
  • Maintains all hand tools and keeps maintenance shop equipment clean and in good working order.
  • Maintains plant maintenance areas in a clean, neat and orderly manner
  • May assist in plant operations in absence of Plant Operators as directed or during emergency situations.
  • May provide training and lead direction to Plant Crewman or others where needed to perform assigned duties.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • High School diploma or GED and 4-6 years additional relevant work-related experience.
  • Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite (Microsoft Outlook, Word & Excel) as required to perform job tasks.
  • Alabama Water or Wastewater Grade I Certification must be obtained within 18 months of accepting position; valid Alabama Driver's License with Class B CDL; CPR/First Aid Certification; Customer Service Skills and applicable safety training.

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