LOUISA COUNTY WATER AUTHORITY
JOB DESCRIPTION: WATER PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE
01/20/2026
Summary:
Reporting directly to the Water Operations Manager or Deputy Water Operations Manager, the Water Plant
Operator Trainee provides operational support functions while learning the process and methods utilized in the
treatment of potable water. This is a non-exempt position.
Essential Functions of the Position:
UNDER DIRECT SUPERVISION, the following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed
as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.
• Training in the operation of a water treatment plant: taking samples, performing routine laboratory
tests, determining chemical dosages, helping to ensure proper and efficient plant operation,
maintaining records and files, preparing reports.
• Assists in the operations of a water treatment plant making regular inspections of the plant and
equipment ensuring continuous and effective operation.
● Monitors and evaluates gauges, meters, and SCADA.
● Performs laboratory analysis, interprets data, and makes the appropriate process adjustments under
the direct supervision of the operator on duty.
● Maintains operational log and data sheets.
● Assists with the performance of various other operations including filling hoppers with chemicals,
backwashing filters, changing pumps, exercising valves, cleaning, and maintaining the plant facilities,
etc.
● Inspects equipment, facilities, and grounds for maintenance and safety needs; reports any issues
requiring corrective actions as necessary.
● Maintains and repairs well system equipment; maintains well system treatment as specified.
● Maintains accurate and consistent technical records, charts, and logs as required.
● Operates a variety of machinery and/or equipment such as water pumps, chemical feed pumps, valve
actuators, lab instruments, powered and non-powered pallet jacks, and Authority vehicles.
● Utilizes a variety of tools and/or sets of tools to include various hand and power tools.
● Maintains knowledge of hazardous chemicals utilized in the plant processes and laboratory. Utilizes
precautionary methods when handling chemicals.
● Performs general maintenance and housekeeping tasks as requested.
● Establishes and maintains effective professional relationships with work colleagues, supervisors,
managers, as well as the general public.
● Performs other related duties as requested.
Education, Experience and Training:
● High school diploma or equivalent is required. Associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field such as
physical, biological, environmental, or chemical science is preferred.
● Must have a current Class 3 Water Operator License or higher issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia
or be eligible to obtain a Class 2 Water Operator License within 12 months of hire per the Department
of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) licensing requirements.
● Must successfully complete the Water Treatment Plant Operation Specialist Certificate Program
(California State University, Sacramento) online continuing education program within the allotted
timeframe.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
This position requires the following knowledge, skills, and abilities, or the aptitude to learn or acquire
what is listed below. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.
• Must have proven working knowledge of the principles and functions to operate a variety of
water treatment processes.
• Must possess working knowledge and understanding of the Virginia Health Department – Office of
Drinking Water language and regulations as required.
• Ability to work independently, follow verbal and written directions and instructions, as well as perform
and complete job requirements in a timely, accurate manner.
• This position will require dividing time among the Authority’s facilities to provide coverage as needed.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by work assignments.
• Ability to recognize emergency situations and respond appropriately.
• Ability to complete OSHA/Safety training as required, follow safety protocols, and always conduct
themselves in a safe manner.
Working Conditions and Special Considerations:
● Environment: Work is typically performed indoors and outdoors and often in extreme weather
conditions (both hot and cold). The employee may be exposed to noise, dust, strong offensive odors,
dirt, machinery with moving parts, irritating chemicals, cleaning solutions, solvents, oils, and petroleum
products. Broad knowledge of appropriate safety precautions to take whenever handling toxic
chemicals is necessary. Personal Protective Equipment is available and in certain instances, required.
● Physical Effort: Physical activities include climbing, balancing, stooping, standing, walking, pushing,
pulling, lifting, reaching, grasping, and repetitive motions. Also includes the necessity to communicate
by talking, hearing/listening.
• Strength: Medium Workload - Lifting, carrying and/or pushing 50 pounds with frequent lifting and/or
carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close, distance and peripheral vision; depth
perception; and the ability to adjust focus, for operation of machines and equipment, determination
accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observation of general surroundings.
● Schedule: The standard work week for full-time positions consists of 40 hours per week; however, this
position requires a flexible, non-traditional schedule to accommodate the business needs of the
Authority and to ensure the water treatment plant has consistent coverage, to include weekend and
holiday hours. The position typically requires working 10-12 hours per day. On-Call rotations are an
essential function of this position. These will be assigned on a rotating schedule and determined by
the facility manager.
● Extenuating Circumstances: Employees may be required to stay at or return to work during times of
high demand and during public health incidents or emergencies to perform duties specific to this
classification or to perform other duties as requested in an assigned response position. This may
require working a non-traditional work schedule or working outside normal assigned duties during the
incident and/or emergency.
Certifications and Licenses:
● Must Possess a valid Virginia Driver’s License.
● Must have a Class 3 Water Operator License or higher issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia and/or
the ability to obtain a Class 2 Water Operator License within 18 months of hire date.
Professionalism and Work Ethic:
● Understands and consistently implements all Louisa County Water Authority policies and procedures.
● Requires regular attendance and adherence to LCWA policies and procedures regarding absences and
tardiness and/or requesting time off from work.
● Maintains a high level of professionalism and demonstrates strong work ethics.
● Must be a “team player” and exhibit a positive, helpful attitude.
● Ability to establish and maintain effective positive working relationships with co-workers, supervisors,
Authority employees, contractors, consultants, as well as the general public.
● Ability to resolve issues tactfully and diplomatically in a positive manner under sometimes stressful
and sensitive situations.
● Willingness to participate in workshops, webinars, and other opportunities to further industry
knowledge and increase job skills.
Special Conditions:
● Must be 18 years of age and possess a valid Virginia Driver’s License.
● Must be willing to submit to a background check, including criminal history, and a Motor Vehicles
check.
● Must consent to drug testing consistent with Louisa County Water Authority’s Drug Free Workplace
Policy.
● Positions include a twelve (12) month probationary period. During the probationary period,
performance reviews will be held at 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Once the employee has
successfully completed their probationary period, performance reviews will be held annually.
Disclaimer:
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. An employee will also perform other reasonably related
job responsibilities as assigned by the General Manager, department manager, or deputy manager. Louisa
County Water Authority reserves the right to revise or change job descriptions, job duties, or working
schedules based on their duty to comply with local, state, and federal regulations. This job description does
not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
