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Water Treatment Operator Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC

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 ...

ENVIROLINK

Wastewater Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

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.

Senior Water Wastewater Design Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$100K - $220K/yr

Monitoring operator reports and lab results to refine treatment techniques. * Technical: Function as a technical specialist in the areas of conventional and advanced water and/or wastewater treatment ...

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All JobsWater Treatment Operator JobsWater Treatment Operator Trainee JobsWater Treatment Operator Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC

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 Sep 12, 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,416 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Water Treatment Operator (ST II)

Raleigh, NC • On-site

ENVIROLINK
Utilities • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about ENVIROLINKexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

The Team Member in this position is responsible for the maintenance and operation of wastewater collection and water distribution systems and equipment. The incumbent will perform routine to complex technical and administrative assignments including analyzing and evaluating issues related to the distribution of water and collection of wastewater as well as other duties as required or assigned. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • The essential function of the position within the organization is to participate in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities, water distribution facilities and wastewater collection facilities to deliver safe potable water and efficient collection of sanitary sewers. Under limited supervision, the position is responsible for lift stations inspections, collection of water samples, water testing, performing utility locates, inspection of booster stations, operation of chemical feed systems, occasional meter reading, meter replacements, meter setting, troubleshooting pumps & motors, responding to customer inquiries, and other duties as assigned.  
  • This position does interact with customers and the public, so professional communication is important.
  • The position utilizes software for management and tracking duties and tasks. Computer skills and good record keeping are key.

US Citizen. E-Verification required. No felonies or major misdemeanors. High school diploma or equivalent.

One (1) year of experience in water or wastewater. Preference given to applicants with an A-Surface license.

Must possess and maintain a valid North Carolina Driver’s License.

Excellent communication skills required including demonstrated fluency with reading, writing and speaking the English language. Readily accessible by phone with ability to work "on-call" for emergencies.

Envirolink, Inc. is a drug-free work place. Initial and random drug testing is required. Successful candidate must submit to post offer, pre-employment physical examination/medical history check.

Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.

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