Water/Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Apprenticeship

Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA); Carrboro (NC); On-site; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

North Carolina retirement system

Employer-paid medical/dental for Appr.

12 paid holidays

Paid vacation and sick leave

Monthly cell phone stipend

Uniforms provided

Safety shoe reimbursement

Job summary

NCWOA is seeking individuals to enter a one‑year apprenticeship for training as Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators. The program combines on‑the‑job training, mentorship, and classroom instruction to prepare you for professional certifications in the water or wastewater field.

During the program, apprentices work a 40‑hour week as temporary employees with the goal of becoming certified operators in water or wastewater systems.

Qualifications

• Must be 18+ years old with a HS diploma or GED.
• Valid NC Driver's License is required.
• Able to lift up to 50+ pounds and follow safety rules.
• Open to feedback and mentorship from experienced staff.
• Successful completion of drug screen, physical, background check and apprenticeship agreement.

Responsibilities

• Participate in on‑the‑job training and classroom instruction.
• Work under supervision to gain operator knowledge and skills.
• Contribute to a safe, compliant work environment.

Skills

Reliability

Punctuality

Safety awareness

Willingness to learn

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Valid NC Driver's License

Job description

We are seeking individuals interested in acquiring training, skills, and certifications as a Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. This opportunity prepares individuals for a rewarding career in the water or wastewater industry. This one-year program consists of on-the-job training, mentorship, and classroom instruction resulting in preparation for professional certifications in the water or wastewater field.

While in the program, apprentices commit to a 40-hour weekly schedule and are considered a temporary employee. The expectation is once the program is complete, the apprentice will be certified as an operator in either a water or wastewater system and have knowledge, skills, and abilities to thrive as an industry professional. Completion of the Apprenticeship program does not guarantee a full-time position with OWASA.

Qualifications/Requirements include:

• 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED
• Valid NC Driver’s License
• Reliably, punctuality, and a readiness to follow safety rules
• An open attitude toward receiving feedback and learning from experienced mentors
• Ability to frequently exert up to 50+ pounds
• Successful completion of drug screen, physical, background check, and apprenticeship agreement

Team members are our most important resource.

Pay and Benefits include:

• Salary is $24.49 per hour
• Participation in the North Carolina Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System
• Employer paid medical and dental for Apprentice: dependent coverage available with premium cost share
• 12 paid Holidays
• Monthly vacation and sick leave
• Monthly cell phone stipend
• Employer provided uniforms
• Safety shoe reimbursement

OWASA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we value diverse experiences and are open to flexible qualifications. Come learn from our awesome team. OWASA provides competitive pay and benefits in a safe, rewarding work environment.