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Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Newton

$18.81/hr

Work of the water plant operator is differentiated by the level of state certification (C is lowest and A is highest), length of experience and broader knowledge and responsibilities of plant ...

City of Riverdale

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Water Plant Operator

Riverdale, ND · On-site

Water Plant Operator Location: Riverdale, North Dakota - Near Lake Sakakawea Salary: Negotiable, based on experience and certifications Employment Type: Full-Time Position Overview The City of ...

Anson County NC

Water Plant Operator

Lilesville, NC · On-site

$34K - $59K/yr

Water Plant Operator Salary Grade 60 Hiring Range: $34,356 - $59,589 General Description of Duties To produce safe and clean water for Anson County. Employees in this classification perform ...

County of Anson

Water Plant Operator

Lilesville, NC · On-site

$34K - $59K/yr

Water Plant Operator Salary Grade 60 Hiring Range: $34,356 - $59,589 General Description of Duties To produce safe and clean water for Anson County. Employees in this classification perform ...

City of East Point

Water Plant Operator III

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$20/hr

Major Duties WATER PLANT OPERATOR III - This is the trainee/entry level classification level. Major Duties: Operates and maintains equipment such as pumps, blowers, motors, bar screens, chemical feed ...

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Water Plant Operator Trainee information

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$30K

$57.4K

$93.5K

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for water plant operator trainee in the United States is $57,354.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $66,000.00 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 and passing a written exam that tests basic math and technical knowledge. Trainees often learn on the job and may need to obtain relevant certifications or licenses, which can involve additional training and testing. The difficulty varies depending on the individual's background and the specific requirements of the employer or jurisdiction.

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. The training involves learning about water treatment processes, safety protocols, and operating equipment, which can take several months to a year depending on the program and employer requirements.

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 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?

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.
More about Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Water Plant Operator jobs are:
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Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Plant Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,354 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

WATER PLANT OPERATOR LEAD

Lake Havasu City, AZ

Lake Havasu City, AZ • On-site

$31.91 - $46.27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

**WATER PLANT OPERATOR LEAD**

Lake Havasu City, AZ

Closing Date: Open until Filled

OTF26-308

Salary: $31.91-$46.27/Hourly DOQ

Trainee: $28.71/Hourly

Grade: CP11

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt                                                                                 

Department: PW/Water Treatment

INITIAL APPLICATION REVIEW WILL TAKE PLACE TWO WEEKS AFTER OPEN. INTERESTED CANDIDATES ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. ADDITIONAL APPLICATION REVIEW WILL ONLY BE CONDUCTED IF NECESSARY.

Lake Havasu City is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Water Plant Operator Lead to join our Water Division team. In this essential leadership role, you'll oversee daily operations at our water treatment facility, guide and support plant operators, and ensure we continue delivering high-quality, safe drinking water to our growing community.

This is an excellent opportunity for a certified operator ready to take the next step into leadership, training, and complex system troubleshooting.

What you will do:

  • Lead and train operations staff in daily plant functions

  • Operate and monitor treatment processes, equipment, and SCADA systems

  • Perform lab testing and analyze water quality data

  • Ensure compliance with ADEQ and EPA regulations

  • Oversee preventative maintenance and coordinate repairs

  • Maintain accurate records, logs, and compliance documentation

  • Respond to emergency situations and participate in on-call rotation

TO VIEW DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION, Click Here

IDEAL CANDIDATE:

We're looking for someone who is:

  • A strong team player with excellent time management and communication skills.

  • Experienced in a lead position at a potable water treatment plant.

  • A natural leader who inspires others and builds strong community relationships

  • Exceptionally organized, detail-oriented, and committed to excellence

  • Knowledge of regulatory requirements for water quality. 

REQUIREMENTS

  • High School Diploma

  • 3-5 years' experience in utility plant operations and maintenance, or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

  • Possession of Grade III Water Treatment and Grade IV Water Treatment Certification issued by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) at hire.

  • Possession of a valid Commercial Driver License Class B with a Tanker Endorsement is preferred.

The selected candidate who does not possess the required certification will be considered a trainee at the time of hire.

Position may also require one (1) or more of the following certifications depending on assignment:

Confined Space Certification.

Lock-out/tag-out

Forklift Certification.

Hazardous Materials Certification

Lake Havasu City offers an exceptional benefits package for full-time (FTE) Employees: 

    Employer-provided Medical/Rx (EPO or HDHP)

    Dental/Vision

    Wellness Program

    Employee Assistance Program

    Flexible Spending Account/Health Savings Account

    Employer-Provided Basic Life Insurance

    Optional Additional Life Insurance

    Optional Insurance-Critical Illness, Hospitalization, Indemnity

    11 Paid Holidays Annually

    Bereavement Leave

    Paid Vacation 

    Short Term Disability 

    Long Term Disability

    Opportunities for advancement

    Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)

    Optional Deferred Compensation

    Tuition Reimbursement

    Service Awards

Additional Comments

Lake Havasu City is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. 

Applicants for employment opportunities should be aware of the Lake Havasu City policies concerning the use of drugs and alcohol. These policies have not been altered by the passage of Proposition 207. The use of recreational marijuana is a violation of the City's Drug Free Workplace Policy. All positions within the City are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test. A positive result for drugs tested under the policy, including recreational marijuana, may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment. 

The City reserves the right to consider only the most highly qualified applicants. The succeeding examination processes may be required: training and experience, testing, panel interview, employment eligibility verification (EEV) requirements, personnel evaluation profile (PEP), polygraph test, background investigation, and alcohol/drug screening test. Appointment subject to successful background investigation and City-paid post-employment medical examination after offer of employment has been made.

Lake Havasu City sits comfortably on the eastern shore of Lake Havasu along the Colorado River border of California and Arizona. The city was established in 1963 by Robert P. McCulloch, Sr. as a self-sufficient, planned community.

Lake Havasu City is located on what is known as "Arizona's West Coast," just 3 hours west of Phoenix, 2 hours south of Las Vegas and 4-5 hours east of the Los Angeles area. As part of the northern and western limits of the Sonoran Desert, Lake Havasu City and the surrounding area feature outstanding biodiversity absolutely loaded with beautiful experiences.

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