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Water Treatment Operator Trainee Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

WATER OPERATOR I

Augusta, KS · On-site

$17.07/hr

OPERATOR 2: With little to no supervision by the Water Superintendent, the Operator II performs ... Basic knowledge of Water Treatment Plant & Distribution Operations Basic knowledge of pump stations ...

WATER OPERATOR I

Augusta, KS · On-site

$17.07/hr

OPERATOR 2: With little to no supervision by the Water Superintendent, the Operator II performs ... Basic knowledge of Water Treatment Plant & Distribution Operations Basic knowledge of pump stations ...

Operating near Wichita, KS and surround areas , the role centers on identifying high-potential ... in the water treatment/chemical industry required. This includes experience with wastewater ...

Operating near Wichita, KS and surround areas , the role centers on identifying high-potential ... in the water treatment/chemical industry required. This includes experience with wastewater ...

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Water Treatment Operator Trainee information

What is a water treatment operator trainee?

Water Treatment Operator Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities. They work under the supervision of experienced operators to learn how to monitor water quality, operate equipment, and ensure that water meets safety and regulatory standards. Their duties often include conducting tests, recording data, and performing basic maintenance tasks. Over time, trainees gain the skills and certifications needed to become fully qualified water treatment operators.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a water treatment operator trainee?

To thrive as a Water Treatment Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically at least a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, SCADA systems, and safety protocols is common, and obtaining state operator-in-training certification may be required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help trainees excel in monitoring and maintaining treatment systems. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient water treatment operations that protect public health.

What are some common challenges faced by water treatment operator trainees during the initial training period?

As a Water Treatment Operator Trainee, one of the main challenges is quickly learning to operate complex equipment and monitoring systems while adhering to strict safety and regulatory standards. Trainees often need to develop a strong attention to detail and the ability to respond calmly to unexpected issues, such as equipment malfunctions or changes in water quality. Additionally, adjusting to shift work and collaborating effectively with experienced operators and maintenance staff can require good communication skills and adaptability. Support and mentorship from senior team members are common, helping trainees build confidence and technical expertise over time.

What is the difference between Water Treatment Operator Trainee vs Water Treatment Operator?

AspectWater Treatment Operator TraineeWater Treatment Operator
CertificationsOften requires a high school diploma; some certifications may be preferred or required during trainingRequires relevant certifications such as state licensing or operator certification
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning on the jobFull-time, operational environment, responsible for daily water treatment tasks
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning procedures, assisting with operations, gaining experienceMonitoring equipment, adjusting processes, ensuring water quality

In summary, a Water Treatment Operator Trainee is in the learning phase, gaining necessary skills and certifications, while a Water Treatment Operator is fully responsible for managing water treatment processes independently.

What job categories do people searching Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Kansas are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Water Treatment Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Treatment Operator Trainee job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Water Treatment Operator

Leavenworth, KS • On-site

$20 - $36/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Controls the treatment of plant machinery and equipment to purify and clarify water for human consumption and industrial use.
JOB DUTIES:
The list below is intended as illustrations of the various types of work performed. These examples are neither restrictive nor all-encompassing of the duties to be performed under this job title.
  • Collecting water samples and conducting tests to determine water quality comply with the standards and regulations of Leavenworth Waterworks and KDHE.
  • Monitor gauges and meters; record required data.
  • Operate to the highest possible standards to provide an uninterrupted water supply.
  • Annual and daily cleaning of water treatment plants.
  • General water plant and grounds maintenance.
  • Records data, such as residual chemical content, water turbidity, water pressure, plant and distribution storage, and flow levels.
  • Repairs and lubricates machines and equipment with hand and power tools.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge of:
  • Chemical and physical processes are used to purify drinking water.
  • Basic algebra and chemistry, along with the ability to apply that knowledge to the water treatment process.
  • Standard water treatment operating procedures.
  • Knowledge of disinfection concepts and procedures (e.g., chlorine contact time, residual, demand, and dosage)
  • Skill in replacing chlorine containers and adjusting gas chlorinators.
  • Knowledge of the chlorine disinfection process, including free and combined chlorine and chloramines
  • Basic knowledge of computer HMI's
  • Basic knowledge of Microsoft software, including Excel and Word
Ability to:
  • Determine processing and treatment requirements.
  • Collect and analyze samples at stages of processing to determine the effectiveness of the treatment process and make any necessary adjustments.
  • Use specialized equipment, chemical feed systems, pumps, electronic equipment, and laboratory equipment.
  • Use computer workstations for data entry, data interpretation, KDHE reporting, and online calibration and equipment monitoring.
  • Identify problems and provide solutions to ensure the proper and efficient operation of the treatment plant.
  • Maintain effective working relationships with management, coworkers, and the public.
  • Understand basic algebra and chemistry and be able to apply that knowledge to the water treatment process.
  • Obtain the knowledge and training to procure a Class I water certification.
EDUCATION:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Associate degree in Chemistry, Biology, or another related field preferred.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Possession of a valid Kansas driver's license
  • Ability to attend continuing education classes every two years - 10 hours of water-related courses are necessary to keep the license valid.
  • Work in extreme heat and cold environments
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or reach with hands or arms, and to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, climb, or balance.
  • The employee must lift and/or move materials weighing up to and over 100 pounds; frequently lift 25 to 55 pounds; and regularly lift 10 pounds.
  • Drug testing and physical fitness test
  • Must be able to work varying shifts, as assigned.
  • Must be available for emergency situations.
  • Must be available to work holidays, weekends and evenings.
PAY RANGES:
  • Operator-in-Training/Class I: $41,000 - $52,000
  • Class II: $46,800 - $62,400
  • Class III: $52,000 - $69,680
  • Class IV: $55,120 - $74,880