Operator in Training

Job Description

Job Title: Operator in Training

Posting Start Date: 5/12/26

Job Description:

Position Information

Posted Range:

$30.99/hour

This position may be eligible for annual incentive pay and contracted increases as determined by the collective bargaining agreement, and you will have the opportunity for continued salary growth.

In addition to compensation, you will be offered a comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), Defined Contribution Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, medical, prescription, dental and vision coverage, plus disability, paid time off, life insurance, voluntary benefits, health and wellness programs and much more!

American Water is also proud to offer employees learning opportunities and work experiences to grow professionally!

Primary Role

The Operator-in Training (OIT) performs semi-skilled to skilled labor in the operation and maintenance of a 5.2 MGD, activated sludge, and wastewater treatment plant. Assists other operators with operation and preventive maintenance duties. Assists plant superintendent with process controls and performs plant operational duties including monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing treatment performance.

Key Accountabilities

• Completes tasks assigned by the plant superintendent in a timely and professional manner.
• Following completion of on-the-job training and instruction, the OIT will perform the following duties:
• The OIT will complete process control tests and basic laboratory analyses such as: pH, dissolved oxygen, SVI, total/volatile solids, total suspended/volatile solids, nutrients analyses, biological oxygen demand (BOD), bacterial test and other lab analyses.
• The OIT will monitor and maintain the following treatment processes: screening, sedimentation, activated sludge treatment, sludge digestion, UV disinfection and sludge thickening/dewatering.
• The OIT will also operate and maintain all supporting equipment including valves, flow meter, pumps, compressors, chemical feeders, and blowers.
• The OIT will assist the plant superintendent and staff with the ordering of bulk chemicals, the scheduling of sludge hauling, data collection and record keeping.
• The OIT is expected to attend all safety training in order to learn, and vigorously apply, safe work practices at all times.
• Periodically the OIT must serve as the “on-call” operator and respond to after hour emergencies such as sewage spills, storm water runoff, power failures, chemical leakages, etc.
  

Knowledge/Skills

• A basic understanding of mechanics and hydraulics.
• Knowledge of the operation, methods, practices, techniques, and maintenance requirements of wastewater treatment facilities.
• Knowledge of safety practices in the operation of electrical and mechanical equipment used in industrial facilities.
• Knowledge of procedures, materials, tools, equipment and safety hazards and precautions common to assigned areas of responsibility.
• Ability to deal effectively and courteously with internal and external customers as well as the general public.
• Ability to determine what equipment, tools and materials will be needed to complete assigned projects.
• Ability to safely use both hand tools and power tools.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in operational duties, and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal associates, supervisory personnel, management personnel, and vendors.
• Ability to read and interpret gauges, recording devices and general plant instrumentation.
• Ability to maintain accurate and up-to-date maintenance records.
• Ability to write legibly and make simple mathematical calculations accurately.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, bend, stoop, shovel, sweep, walk and climb status.
• Ability to safely operate company motor vehicles and equipment.
• Ability to work outdoors under all weather conditions including summer heat.
• Ability to use computer/mobile devices tools to analyze and report plant data.
  
  

Experience/Education

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Years of experience vary depending upon level of position open and must be in wastewater utility industry as follows:
• Operator OIT: required to obtain operator certificate within State mandated guidelines
• Operator 1: 1-3 years experience
• Operator 2: 3-5 years experience
• Operator 3: 5-8 years experience
• Sr. Operator: 8 years experience
  

Additional Key Accountabilities

• Position has the potential for exposure to dust, pollen, chemicals, water, and sewage.
• Requires valid Hawaii Driver’s License with excellent driving record.
• CDL license is preferred.
• The OIT must be willing to work shifts (6am to 2:30pm and 2pm to 10:30pm) that will include one “weekend” day and able to work a flexible schedule, when necessary, to substitute for absent operators or lab technicians
• Position is based out of our plant at: 6700 Kalanianaʻole Hwy # 206, Honolulu, HI 96825
  
  

Other

Licensed operators in the State of Hawaii are encouraged and welcome to apply as well. Job duties and compensation will be commensurate with the individual’s level of certification and experience.

Competencies

Champions safety

Collaborates

Cultivates innovation

Customer obsessed

Drives Results

Nimble learning