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Water Treatment Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pilgrim's

Water Treatment Operator - Days

Arcadia, WI · On-site

$23.31/hr

Opportunity to grow your career through our Supervisor Development Program or Management Trainee ... The Water Treatment Operator is responsible for the daily operation and upkeep of the Water ...

Clean Harbors

Water Treatment Technician III

Ludington, MI · On-site

$15.63 - $41.54/hr

Assess trainee competency and provide constructive feedback * Create or update training materials ... water treatment systems (RO, DI, or similar) * Working knowledge of water chemistry principles and ...

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How much do water treatment trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for water treatment trainee in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water treatment trainee do?

A Water Treatment Trainee assists in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities under the supervision of experienced staff. Their duties often include monitoring water quality, learning how to operate equipment, collecting samples, and performing routine maintenance. The trainee role is designed to provide hands-on experience and training to prepare individuals for more advanced positions in water treatment. Trainees also learn about regulations, safety procedures, and best practices to ensure safe and clean water for the community.

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

To thrive as a Water Treatment Trainee, you need a basic understanding of water treatment processes, safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring additional coursework in science or math. Familiarity with laboratory testing equipment, SCADA systems, and the ability to pursue relevant certifications like a water treatment operator license are important. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel in daily operations and adapt to regulatory requirements. These skills are essential to ensure safe, efficient water treatment operations and compliance with health and environmental standards.

What are some typical challenges faced by water treatment trainees during their initial months on the job?

Water Treatment Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to the technical complexity of water treatment processes and learning to operate specialized equipment safely. They must quickly become familiar with regulatory compliance standards and rigorous safety protocols, which can feel overwhelming at first. Additionally, trainees typically work rotating shifts and must adjust to early mornings, nights, or weekends, depending on the facility's schedule. However, with support from experienced team members and a structured training program, most trainees become comfortable with these aspects over time.

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

AspectWater Treatment TraineeWater Treatment Operator
CertificationsBasic certifications or on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications, such as Water Treatment Operator licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, labs, or entry-level plant areasOperational plant floors, control rooms, and maintenance areas
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with testing, monitoring, and learning proceduresOperating equipment, monitoring systems, and maintaining water quality

The Water Treatment Trainee role is an entry-level position focused on learning and assisting with water treatment processes. In contrast, a Water Treatment Operator is a more experienced role responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment systems. Trainees typically work under supervision and aim to gain the skills needed for full operator roles.

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Cities with the most Water Treatment Trainee job openings:

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States with the most job openings for Water Treatment Trainee jobs include:

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Infographic showing various Water Treatment Trainee job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee

Lumberton, NC • On-site

Robeson County
See more jobs at Robeson Countyexternal

$40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Example of Duties:
Under general supervision, performs responsible technical and skilled work in the operation minor maintenance of the water treatment plant and related facilities for the county Water Treatment – Plant Department. Work involves collecting lab samples, performing required analysis and test, and monitoring of testing, and adjusting chemicals that are added to water, reading meters, gauges, and SCADA to check filters, chlorinators, and various other machinery and equipment. Maintains records of readings and making adjustments and repairs to equipment as required. Employee must exercise independent judgment and initiative in all phases of work. Reports to the Chief Water Plant Operator A.

Education and Experience:
  • High School diploma; maintenance experience; or any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.
  • Valid North Carolina driver's license required upon hire and duration of employment. Out of state driver's license will be accepted only if the individual is a permanent resident of that state.
  • Trainee status will be applied until employee acquires a Class C water treatment plant operator certification. (Grade 66 will be applied).
  • Water Treatment Plant Operator I status will be applied when employee acquires Class C Water Treatment Certification the paygrade will change to grade 67.
  • Water Treatment Plant Operator II status will be applied when employee acquires Class B Water Treatment Certification the paygrade will change to grade 68.
  • Water Treatment Plant Operator Senior status will be applied when employee acquires Class A Water Treatment Certification the paygrade will change to grade 69.

Must take and successfully pass a pre-employment drug test, Motor Vehicle Records driver license check, as well as submit to random, reasonable suspicion, and post-accident drug and alcohol testing. A criminal background check must be completed by the County of Robeson for potential applicants.

Application process:
Applications are accepted ONLINE ONLY at robesoncountycareers.com. For application process inquiries, questions or concerns please contact April Ewing-Page in Human Resources at (910) 671-3016 or by email at april.ewing-page@robesoncountync.gov.

We are an equal-opportunity employer:
Robeson County Local Government considers applicants on the basis of qualifications and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, disability or any other legally protected status.