ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Water Plant Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Asheville

Water Plant Operator I

Asheville, NC

$23.93 - $92/hr

The City of Asheville is currently looking to hire a full-time Water Plant Operator I position. This position is to perform technical work in the operation and minor maintenance of the water ...

City of Asheville

Water Plant Operator III

Asheville, NC · On-site

$26.39/hr

The City of Asheville is currently looking to hire a full-time Water Plant Operator III position. This position is to perform technical work in the operation and minor maintenance of the water ...

ntmw

Water Plant Operator III

Wylie, TX

Position Summary The Water Plant Operator III performs, plans, and organizes the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of water facilities and associated systems including, but not limited to, raw ...

City of Springfield, MO

Plant Operator II

Springfield, MO · On-site

$39K - $66K/yr

The City of Springfield is committed to protecting the water quality of the Ozarks for many ... Plant Operator Trainee Experience, Education, and Training * At least six months of experience in ...

City of Akron, OH

Water Plant Operator

Akron, OH · On-site

$52K - $62K/yr

Water Plant Division - 841 Opening Date: 07/21/2026 Closing Date: 8/10/2026 11:59 PM Eastern ... Makes rounds to visually and audibly inspect the operating condition and settings of pumps ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsWater Plant Operator JobsWater Plant Operator Trainee Jobs

Water Plant Operator Trainee information

See salary details

$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:
What states have the most Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Water Plant Operator Trainee jobs are:
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.

Plant Operator II

City of Springfield (MO)

Springfield, MO

$39K - $66K/yr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

City Of Springfield (Missouri) rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

542nd of 841 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Description Are you interested in being part of an award winning team. The City of Springfield is committed to protecting the water quality of the Ozarks for many generations to come. The Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plants (SWTP) is an award winning wastewater treatment facility for the City of Springfield and is searching for qualified candidates to fill the position of Plant Operator II.

The Plant Operator II shall perform specialized skilled work in the operation and routine maintenance of sludge conditioning and thickening equipment, mixed media filtration, cryogenic oxygen generation and ozone generation facilities. For more information on the SWTP click here. **PLEASE NOTE WORK SCHEDULE BELOW: SWTP - 2:30AM - 2:30PM or 2:30PM - 2:30AM - 12-hour shifts (Rotation either Sunday - Wednesday or Wednesday - Saturday) THIS POSITION HAS THE OPTION TO UNDERFILL WITH A PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE.

Don't forget to review the amazing benefits - Click Here. Qualifications and Requirements Plant Operator II Experience, Education, and Training Two years of college or vo-tech training in wastewater technology, chemical or biological sciences or a related area; OR Degree in biology, environmental science, or similar area; AND Two years experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area; Directly related work experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis, and double credit may be given for direct City of Springfield Plant Operator Trainee experience. Licensing/Certification At time of hire, must possess a valid Missouri Class "D" Wastewater Operator's Certificate or equivalent; Must obtain and maintain a Class "C" Wastewater Operator's Certificate within the probationary period; Must obtain and maintain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements within the following guidelines: Pass written portion of exam within 90 days of employment and skills test portion within the probationary period.

Plant Operator Trainee Experience, Education, and Training At least six months of experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area, such as plant or infrastructural maintenance; OR Degree in biology, environmental science, or similar area; Possession of current Class D Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations Certificate may be substituted for experience/degree requirement. Licensing/Certification Obtain and maintain a Missouri class "D" wastewater treatment plant operations certificate within probationary period. Must obtain and maintain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements within the following guidelines: Pass written portion of exam within 90 days of employment and skills test portion within 120 days of employment.

Functions Plant Operator II For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description. Salary - $39,561.60 - $64,708.80 Annually Underfill - Plant Operator Trainee For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description. Salary -$38,064.00 - $56,430.40 Annually Other Requirements The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave.

Springfield, MO 65802. Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace.

Pre-employment drug testing is required. All interested candidates MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission.

Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.

What City Of Springfield (Missouri) employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply