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Water Treatment Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wood

Water Treatment Operator

Kennewick, WA

Come join Wood as a Water Treatment Operator in Kennewick, WA. Wood offers health benefits, 401k, vacation and more. Per-diem is offered. Authorization to work lawfully in the US without sponsorship ...

Wood Plc

Water Treatment Operator

Kennewick, WA

Come join Wood as a Water Treatment Operator in Kennewick, WA. Wood offers health benefits, 401k, vacation and more. Per-diem is offered. Authorization to work lawfully in the US without sponsorship ...

Wood

Water Treatment Operator

Othello, WA

Come join Wood as a Water Treatment Operator in Othello, WA. Wood offers health benefits, 401k, vacation and more. Per-diem is offered. Authorization to work lawfully in the US without sponsorship ...

NuQuatic LLC

Water Treatment Operator

Okeechobee, FL · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Water Treatment Operators also perform field sampling and testing to determine the required water quality parameters and utilize their knowledge to adjust the chemical feeds as needed. This role is a ...

City of Hutchinson

Water Treatment Operator

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$20.10 - $25.11/hr

Under the supervision of the Water Treatment Systems Supervisor, the Water Treatment Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring departmental equipment to effectively treat water prior to ...

City of Hutchinson

Water Treatment Operator

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$20.10 - $25.11/hr

Under the supervision of the Water Treatment Systems Supervisor, the Water Treatment Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring departmental equipment to effectively treat water prior to ...

cityoflawrence

WATER TREATMENT OPERATOR

Lawrence, KS · On-site

Water Treatment Operator activities includes the use of computer technology, sampling and laboratory analysis, operation of heavy equipment and vehicles, plant equipment, and field equipment. This ...

cityoflawrence

WATER TREATMENT OPERATOR

Lawrence, KS

Water Treatment Operator activities includes the use of computer technology, sampling and laboratory analysis, operation of heavy equipment and vehicles, plant equipment, and field equipment. This ...

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Water Treatment Operator Trainee information

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$13

$27

$49

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for water treatment operator trainee in the United States is $27.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Water Treatment Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

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 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 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 are Water Treatment Operator Trainees?

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 cities are hiring for Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Water Treatment Operator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Water Treatment Operator jobs? The most popular types of Water Treatment Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs include:
Water Treatment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Treatment Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 37% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,008 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Water Treatment Operator

Water Treatment Operator

Wood

Kennewick, WA

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Overview / Responsibilities

Looking for a career opportunity?  Come join Wood as a Water Treatment Operator in Kennewick, WA.   Wood offers health benefits, 401k, vacation and more.  Per-diem is offered.  

Authorization to work lawfully in the US without sponsorship from Wood is required

  • Ensure work performed to applicable specifications and regulations; and preparation of daily logs.
  • Ensures safe, reliable and efficient operation of equipment, the transport and treatment of impacted mine water, and monitoring of treatment effectiveness. 
  • The Operator reports directly to the lead and supports managing and supervising O&M activities.
  • Perform day-to-day operations and inspections;
  • Provide status updates to management and other designated personnel;
  • Support troubleshooting of facility and collection system technical problems;
  • Perform the collection and submittal of samples for laboratory analysis per the sampling and analysis plan; and
  • Complete daily, weekly, monthly, etc. maintenance as required by equipment O&M manuals.
  • Operator will report directly to the Lead Water Treatment Operator and other designated personnel and is expected to work on-site five days a week.
Skills / Qualifications
  • Experience in operating biological treatment systems.
  • Valid driver's license is required
  • Drug screen, background check and social security number verification
  • Ability to supervise site work activities involved in completing the daily O&M responsibilities and support any necessary off-hour emergency responses
  • Technical knowledge in portions of the site work involved in completing the daily O&M responsibilities
Company Overview

Wood is a global leader in engineering and consultancy across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www.woodplc.com

Diversity Statement (EEO)

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER

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