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Water Treatment Operator Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC

ENVIROLINK

Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The incumbent will perform routine to complex technical and administrative assignments including analyzing and evaluating issues related to the treatment of water and wastewater. Operations as ...

GFT.

Water Treatment Process Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

Conduct site visits and investigations; analyze water quality, facility design, and operating data to assess treatment performance; and provide recommendations for treatment and process improvements.

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator II, Wastewater

Cary, NC · On-site

$34.93/hr

... treatment facilities, lift stations, booster stations, distribution system, and the wastewater ... FO Trainee - $25.52/HR * Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license ...

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Water Treatment Operator Trainee information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$26

$48

How much do water treatment operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for water treatment operator trainee in Raleigh, NC is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $32.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Water Treatment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Water Treatment Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Water Treatment Operator Trainee job openings:

Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Treatment Operator Trainee job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,416 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Water Treatment Operator: Senior Leader

ENVIROLINK

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

The Leader - Operations provides the leadership to effectively and efficiently distribute the resources of the company in the operation of the water and/or wastewater systems within his or her assigned jurisdiction.  Responsibilities may include any of the following functional areas: water supply, water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment, wastewater collection, wastewater disposal and storm water treatment systems.

  • Function as the Operator in Responsible Charge, perform the duties required to properly maintain and repair client or company water and /or wastewater systems in accordance with company policies and the rules of the State and Federal Governments;
  • Responsible for supervising tasks, staff and contractors on behalf of company;
  • Responsible for developing and maintaining client relations;
  • Responsible for personal development of each member of your team and themselves with an emphasis on the development of character, personal development, ability to obtain results, interpersonal skills, and ability to lead change;
  • Prepare and administer annual operating and capital budgets;
  • Manages the operation and maintenance related to the facilities under the position’s responsibilities with may include one or more of the following functional areas: water distribution, water treatment, wastewater treatment or wastewater collections;
  • Oversees the operations and maintenance of the water distribution, water treatment, wastewater treatment or wastewater collection facilities, including valves, water intake, wells, pumps, purification equipment, reservoirs, SCADA systems, motor control centers, automatic control valves and production meters;
  • Ensures the safety of all personnel, clients and customers in accordance with company policy and programs, as well as applicable regulation;
  • Works with staff & senior leadership to develop operational and capital budgets consistent with the mission and goals of the client and Envirolink;
  • Effectively manages operational and capital budgets for the facilities under your responsibility;
  • Communicates, both orally and written, with local officials, company leaders, company managers, and team members, customers, and others.
  • Organize the daily activities of the operation team in order to best meet service objectives, regulatory requirements and company goals;
  • Develops and implements preventive maintenance programs for various water and wastewater facilities; including pump efficiency tests, automatic control valves, motor control centers, gas engines, pump and chemical buildings and structures, fences and gates, lighting, landscaping, paving, testing and repair of production meters, etc.;
  • Act as liaison between Company and regulatory officials, and clients
  • US Citizen. E-Verification required;
  • No felonies or major misdemeanors;
  • Associate Degree in technical or scientific discipline. 
  • Prior leadership experience;
  • Possession of C-Surface license in the State of North Carolina
  • Knowledge of operational best practices;
  • At least Five (5) years in the water, and/or wastewater industry;
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills required including demonstrated fluency with reading, writing and speaking the English language;
  • Good math skills;
  • Must possess and maintain a valid State Driver’s License;
  • Envirolink, Inc. is a drug-free work place.  Initial and random drug testing is required.
  • Successful candidate must submit to pre-employment physical examination/medical history check;
  • Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check;
  • CPR and First Aid certification must be obtained within 12 months of date of hire.

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