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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Synagro

Plant Operator - Night Shift

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$23/hr

... plant standard operating procedures 2. Maintain records of plant operations including, but not ... water line pipes, and other areas which could cause claustrophobia. Salary Range: $23.00 per hour ...

BTS Bioenergy

Wastewater Operator

Jessup, MD · On-site

$22.25 - $30.75/hr

About the role BTS Bioenergy is seeking a Wastewater Plant Operator for our Anaerobic Digestion (AD ... Able to perform basic water quality or other laboratory analysis * Knowledge of the operation of ...

Ecruit

Trainee Operator

Centreville, VA · On-site

$52K - $84K/yr

READY TO DEVELOP THE FUTURE OF WATER! Trainee Operator | Grade 4 | $52,964 - $84,743 Open: August ... New hires will work all shifts, transitioning to an assigned shift dependent upon the plant's need ...

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All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$31K

$59.3K

$96.7K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in Silver Spring, MD is $59,291.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $68,200.00 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 Silver Spring, MD?

For Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you

Plant Operator - Night Shift

Synagro

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Synagro rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 91 rated recycling and waste

Job description

JOB SUMMARY
Inspect, maintain, and control process equipment and perform mechanical maintenance throughout the plant. Adhere to all applicable regulations to provide, safe, reliable, and cost-effective operation of the plant to meet processing, permit, and other applicable requirements. 6p.m. - 6a.m.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Monitor and control plant operations in accordance with company policies and
plant standard operating procedures
2. Maintain records of plant operations including, but not limited to, hourly
operating data and abnormal operating conditions.
3. Ensure that the facility operates within permit compliance, at/above design
capability, and always produces high quality product
4. Participate and complete training programs within the time frame allotted
5. Perform any general work or other assignments necessary to ensure the safe,
clean, and efficient operation of the facility to include sweeping, shoveling, and
other housekeeping activities
6. Enforce and maintain standard safety procedures and maintain clean work area
at all times
7. Perform fire guard duty and confined space watch
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES
1. Ability to recognize operational inconsistencies and hazards in the workplace
and display proper judgment in responding to them
2. Ability to read and comprehend instructional manuals, instruction sheets,
technical data, work orders and mechanical drawings in English
3. Thorough knowledge and understanding of the plant fire protection apparatus
and systems
4. Ability to operate all fire protection equipment
5. Thorough knowledge and understanding of occupational hazards connected
with machine shop and general plant practices with emphasis on the necessity
of safety policy compliance
6. Ability to work varying shifts, overtime, holidays, on call duty and emergency
call-ins
7. Communication skills - verbal and written
8. Ability to operate a computer
9. Ability to perform basic math
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCES
1. High School diploma or GED equivalent required.
2. Minimum 2 years' experience as operator or other process plant operations, or
equivalent
3. Strong mechanical & electrical aptitude
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Talking, Hearing, Seeing Sitting, Standing, Walking, Fingering, Kneeling,
Crouching, Pushing, and Pulling
2. The worker is subject to both environmental conditions: Activities occur inside
and out.
3. The worker is subject to noise: There is sufficient noise to cause worker to
shout in order to be heard above the ambient noise level.
4. The worker is subject to hazards: Includes a variety of physical conditions such
as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current,
working on scaffolding and high places, exposure to high heat or exposure to
bio-solids.
5. The workers frequently is in close quarters, crawl space, shafts, manholes, small,
enclosed rooms, small sewage and water line pipes, and other areas which could cause claustrophobia.
Salary Range: $23.00 per hour (commensurate with experience)
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all essential job functions, knowledge, skills, abilities, efforts, and physical or working conditions associated with a position.
Education- Preferred High School or better.
AA/EOE/M/F/D/V
We thank all individuals for their interest in Synagro however only those selected for interviews will be contacted.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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