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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Decatur, AL

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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 Jun 9, 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 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 are Water Plant Operator Trainees?

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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Plant Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

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 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:
Mold Maintenance Technician

Mold Maintenance Technician

JB Poindexter & Co., Inc.

Decatur, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
The Mold Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and installing molds and tooling to support safe and efficient production operations. This role ensures molds are in proper working condition and meet quality standards.
Essential Functions
  • Perform mold changes, including building, stripping, installing, and maintaining tooling
  • Clean molds manually or with high-pressure equipment following safety procedures
  • Set up molds for production, including replacing seals, guns, and related components
  • Rebuild and maintain mold-related components (i.e., guns, seals)
  • Troubleshoot and resolve mold and process issues to support product quality
  • Operate or interface with control systems (e.g., PLC) to support production setup and adjustments
  • Complete required documentation, including mold change records, maintenance logs requests for parts
  • Participate in all required training, including safety and operational policies
  • Participate in continuous improvement and workplace organization initiatives (e.g., plant-wide 5S / housekeeping)
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred along with 3 years' mechanical experience in an industrial setting
  • Mechanical aptitude demonstrated through experience or testing
  • Basic to intermediate reading, writing, and math skills
  • Experienced in pneumatic (air), steam, hydraulic and water systems preferred
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work independently or as part of a team
  • Ability to use hand tools both manually and pneumatically driven
  • Ability to operate a powered industrial truck
  • Ability to operate cranes/hoists

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, sit, climb, balance, and perform repetitive motions
  • Frequent lifting and carrying up to 35 lbs.
  • Pushing/pulling up to 40 lbs.
  • Frequent bending, stooping, crawling, crouching and reaching

Work Environment & Safety
  • Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery, heat/cold extremes, moderate noise levels, pressurized systems, and industrial equipment
  • Required to comply with all OSHA standards, company safety policies, and required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)

Additional Requirements
  • Ability to work a minimum of 40 hours per week, with additional hours as needed to support operation

The Company is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to legally protected characteristics.
This position requires adherence to all applicable safety standards, including the safe operation of powered industrial trucks in accordance with OSHA regulations and company policies.
Company Overview
An industry leader in providing practical solutions to foam molding and fabrication, EFP has a diversified product offering and serves the pharmaceutical, biotech, medical, automotive, recreational vehicle, appliance, plumbing, consumer goods, and building and construction industries. The company is headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana and has manufacturing locations in Elkhart, Indiana; Evansville, Indiana; Decatur, Alabama; Nashville, Tennessee Reno, Casa Grande, AZ and Bishopville, SC.
EFP can design, mold, fabricate and provide fulfillment capabilities, kitting, assembly, custom systems, and inventory management. Nashville is also home to the company's Temperature Solutions Center of Excellence.
For more than 40 years, EFP, LLC has been owned by J.B. Poindexter & Co., Inc., a privately held, diversified manufacturing company with operating subsidiaries throughout North America. In addition to expanded foam products, these companies produce commercial van bodies, step vans, funeral coaches, limousines, pick-up truck bed enclosures and tonneau covers, and precision machined components. The size and strength of the Poindexter companies provides EFP with the leadership and resources to stay on the leading edge in today's marketplace. Because of this, EFP can provide our customers with groundbreaking packaging and component solutions.
For more information about our company, access EFP's web site at www.efppackaging.com
EFP offers a competitive wage and comprehensive benefits. EFP's benefits package includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life, STD, LTD, FSA, HSA, and 401(k) Plan with company contributions.
EFP is an Equal Opportunity Employer.