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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Cary, NC · On-site

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... FO Trainee - * Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Cary, NC

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... FO Trainee - * Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 ...

Utility Plant Solutions Inc

Be Seen First

Utility Plant Solutions - Boiler Technician

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

About Utility Plant Solutions Utility Plant Solutions provides start-up, installation, and commissioning of central utility plants using steam, hot water, and chill water. Work includes the operation ...

Utility Plant Solutions Inc

Be Seen First

Utility Plant Solutions - Boiler Technician

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

About Utility Plant Solutions Utility Plant Solutions provides start-up, installation, and commissioning of central utility plants using steam, hot water, and chill water. Work includes the operation ...

Mentor Technical Group

Utilities Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

Performs required tests on boiler water, circulating water, closed cooling water, etc. * Makes ... Lines up, starts, stops and secures equipment as required by the plant operator. * Knows and abides ...

Mentor Technical Group

Utilities Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

Performs required tests on boiler water, circulating water, closed cooling water, etc. * Makes ... Lines up, starts, stops and secures equipment as required by the plant operator. * Knows and abides ...

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All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$29.2K

$55.8K

$90.9K

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

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in Raleigh, NC is $55,753.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,800.00 and $64,200.00 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.

How hard is it to become a water plant operator trainee?

Becoming a water plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training and passing relevant certification exams. The process involves learning about water treatment processes, safety protocols, and equipment operation, which can take several months to a year depending on the program and employer requirements.

What do I need to become a water operator?

To become a water plant operator trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some positions require relevant coursework or experience in water treatment or related fields. Certification or licensing, such as a state-issued water operator license, is often required or preferred, and on-the-job training is common for new trainees.

Is a water treatment plant operator a hard job?

A water treatment plant operator trainee job involves monitoring and maintaining water treatment processes, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. The role can be physically demanding and often requires certification and ongoing training, but it is manageable with proper preparation and training.

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 is the role of an operator trainee?

A Water Plant Operator Trainee is responsible for learning and assisting with the operation and maintenance of water treatment and distribution systems. They monitor equipment, follow safety procedures, and may need to obtain certifications such as a water operator license as they gain experience. The role involves working under supervision to ensure water quality and system efficiency.
What are popular job titles related to Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC 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 Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,753 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee

Harnett County

Lillington, NC • On-site

$49K - $57K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY POSITION SUMMARY: An employee in this position performs technical work in the operation and minor maintenance of equipment at a water treatment plant on an assigned shift for Harnett Regional Water. Work involves controlling mechanical, electrical, and chemical equipment involved in pumping and/or treating water. This is a night shift position working from 7:00pm to 7:00am.

Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee $49,177 Water Treatment Plant Operator C $51,636 Water Treatment Plant Operator B $54,217 Water Treatment Plant Operator A $56,927 DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION: Monitors pumps, gauge charts, and equipment and the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system; and maintains chemical feed systems and levels. Monitors coagulation process of raw water; plans and monitors clear well water level and usage. Keeps plant records and periodic summary reports of operations; completes daily monitoring reports required by state and federal government.

Inspects plant equipment and machinery; makes minor repairs and adjustments on equipment according to preventive maintenance schedules or as necessary. Must be able to drive and operate a vehicle to travel as needed. Prepares lab chemicals and performs physical tests such as turbidity, color, odor, taste and temperature; performs chemical tests as needed such as pH, alkalinity, carbon dioxide, hardness, metal content, and residual chlorine and fluoride; and performs other bacteriological tests as needed.

Answers telephone and provides answers or refers caller to appropriate personnel. Performs other related duties as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK: High school diploma or equivalent.

No experience required. Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license. Possession of a NC Surface Water Treatment Plant Operator: Level C Certification within one (1) year of hire date.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES: Knowledge of the operating principles and practices of water treatment. Knowledge of the maintenance requirements of water treatment plant equipment and machinery. Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions associated with water plant and related activities.

Knowledge of County policies and procedures. Knowledge of chemistry as applied to water treatment. Knowledge of standard laboratory principles, techniques, terminology, and equipment.

Skill in using a computer and popular word-processing and spreadsheet software. Skill in identifying and assisting in identifying solutions to work problems. Ability to follow specified operating and recording procedures.

Ability to detect defects and to take appropriate action in the operation of water treatment equipment, chemical feed machines, and other related equipment. Ability to keep accurate records and prepare reports. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by work assignments.

Ability to meet deadlines. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Must be able to perform light work frequently exerting up to 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects; and occasionally requiring to exert up to 50 pounds of force to move objects. This work also involves the physical abilities of climbing, crawling, crouching, feeling, grasping, handling, perceiving sounds at normal speaking levels, discriminating among sounds, kneeling, lifting, using mental acuity, pulling, pushing, reaching, performing repetitive motion, speaking, standing, stooping, expressing ideas by the spoken word, shouting to be heard above ambient noise, and walking.

An incumbent must also possess the visual acuity to analyze data, work with color or depth perception, determine accuracy or make observations, operated equipment, and inspect defects. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The employee works in a plant environment which included indoor and outdoor activities.

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