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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Decatur, GA

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Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$29.3K

$56K

$91.3K

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in Decatur, GA is $55,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,000.00 and $64,400.00 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 job categories do people searching Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA 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, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,996 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

System Operator Trainee

Georgia Systems Operations

Tucker, GA

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Under the supervision of the GSOC Power Delivery Training group and in conjunction with certified Transmission & Generation System Operators this journeyman position (with no authority to act independently) will be trained on the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to become a NERC Certified System Operator. Training will include a combination of classroom, field, online and control center exposure. The primary goal of the Trainee program will be to successfully prepare for and obtain NERC Certification.

After completing the Trainee program and successfully obtaining NERC Certification a Trainee will then begin an initial training program which upon completion enables them to enter into more advance training to support either Generation, Transmission, or both as a GSOC System Operator. Completion of the Trainee role and obtaining NERC Certified System Operator will prepare Trainee to transition to progressive levels within the GSOC System Operator family of jobs. These positions, varying in required experience and level of complexity, have responsibility for the 24x7 real-time operation of the member owned transmission and generation system.

System Operators write switching orders and issues clearances, work to restore customer outages in a safe and reliable manner and respond to alarms to maintain awareness of the system. System Operators work with neighboring utilities to schedule power into and out of the system as well as forecast system conditions and dispatch generation and transmission resources to maintain an economic and reliable balance of power on the system. Job Duties: Develop and demonstrate the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities required to obtain NERC System Operator Certification designation while simultaneously developing a deep understanding of the electric utility business and specifically GSOC's member owned model.

Work directly with Power Delivery Training and in conjunction with certified Transmission & Generation System Operators through classroom training, field visits to substations and generating plants to become fully versed in the system operations requirements for both the Transmission System Operator and Generation System Operator positions. All other duties as assigned. Required Qualifications: Education: A high school diploma, GED or equivalent.

Experience: One to 3 years of work in a related field such as distribution operations, substation construction, relay maintenance or testing substation equipment, generation plant operations preferred. Equivalent Experience: One to 3 years of technical training in a related field such as distribution operations, substation construction, relay maintenance or testing substation equipment, generation plant operations preferred. Specialized Skills: Required: Must obtain and maintain Bulk Electric System Cyber Authorized Status as defined in GSOC's CIP Cyber Security Policy 301 and NERC Reliability Standard CIP 004 - Personnel Risk Assessment." Ability to use Microsoft Office suite of products: Outlook, Word, Excel (Power Point a plus).

Must have sound decision making skills under stressful conditions. Must be able to communicate effectively, both oral and written. Desired - but can be trained: AC/DC theory Ability to read one-line diagrams.

Licenses/Certifications: Must obtain a NERC System Operation Certification within six months after the Trainee's hire date. Management has the right to review and extend the time frame if needed on a case by case basis. NERC System Operator Certifications accepted: Reliability Coordinator Operators (RC) Balancing, Interchange, and Transmissions (BT/BIT) Transmission Operator (TO) Physical Requirements: Some shift work will be assigned to gain a specific understanding of the requirements of 24x7 operations for the System Operation role for both transmission and balancing obligations.

Additional Information: The System Operator Trainee is required to obtain NERC Certification through in-person instructions and on-line training. A NERC Certification test will be coordinated at least by month four of the training process. Subsequent tests, should they be required, will be scheduled at management's discretion.

Obtaining NERC System Operator Certification is a requirement for successful completion of the Trainee program. Rotating shift (including Days/Nights/Holidays) will be assigned during the training period and will be required of a successful candidate after completion of this training program.

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