Water Operator Trainee

About the Organization

Join the team at Rivanna Authorities for a valuable career in public service. We are guided by our Mission & Values. We constantly strive to improve essential services in the County of Albemarle and the City of Charlottesville.

Mission:
Our knowledgeable and professional team serves the Charlottesville, Albemarle, and UVA community by providing high-quality water and wastewater treatment, refuse, and recycling services in a financially responsible and sustainable manner.

Rivanna Authorities consists of two entities:
Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority (RWSA) and Rivanna Solid Waste Authority (RSWA). Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority (RWSA) is an independent public agency and wholesale water provider. We provide wholesale water supply, water treatment, and wastewater interception and treatment for the City & Albemarle County. Rivanna Solid Waste Authority (RSWA) provides recycling, solid waste, and household hazardous waste disposal services to City & Albemarle County residents from our facilities at Ivy Solid Waste & Recycling, McIntire Recycling, and the Paper Sort Facility on Meade Avenue.

Vision:
To serve the community as a recognized leader in environmental stewardship by providing exceptional water and solid waste services.

Values:
The Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority and Rivanna Solid Waste Authority are committed to the following values:
Integrity, Teamwork, Respect, & Quality.

This position will remain open until filled. The Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority (RWSA) is seeking a motivated and dependable Water Operator Trainee to join our team. This entry‑level position provides hands‑on training in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities and pump stations. As a trainee, you will work alongside experienced operators to learn how to safely and efficiently produce high-quality drinking water while meeting all regulatory requirements.

This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in building a long‑term career in the water utility field.

• Assist with the operation of water treatment processes, including chemical, physical, and microbiological systems
• Conduct routine facility inspections and monitor system performance using SCADA and other instrumentation
• Record operational data and maintain accurate logs and reports
• Assist with water sampling and basic laboratory testing
• Monitor and adjust chemical feed systems under supervision
• Respond to alarms, equipment issues, and operational needs with guidance from licensed operators
• Learn plant piping, valving systems, and flow control processes
• Assist with preventive maintenance and minor repairs
• Maintain facility cleanliness and perform general groundskeeping tasks
• Follow all safety procedures and regulatory requirements
• Support team operations and respond appropriately to public or internal inquiries

South Rivanna Water Treatment Plant

Full‑time (rotating 12‑hour shifts). Typically 3–4 days per week with shifts rotating every two weeks between 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (days) and 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM (nights). Operators on this schedule receive a 2% shift differential for all hours worked.

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid, unrestricted Virginia Driver’s License
• Preferred but not required:
  Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, engineering, chemistry, or a related discipline

This position is posted as a trainee-level role. However, candidates who already possess a Virginia water operator license will be considered for placement at a higher operator level, with compensation evaluated based on licensure and relevant experience. Trainee starts at $24/hour ($50,000 per year). 7% increase for each Wastewater License obtained. Level and compensation to be commensurate with certifications, licenses, and years of experience.

In Virginia, Water/Wastewater Operators must hold a state license based on facility complexity (Class 4–Class
1), and since Rivanna operates Class 1 facilities, employees are expected to work toward obtaining a Class 1 Operator license with training and support provided.

• A…