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Apprentice Machine Operator Jobs in Chester, VA (NOW HIRING)

Crash Champions

Auto Body Technician

Richmond, VA

$170K/yr

... operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also ... Qualifications • Ability to use frame machine. • Certification in body repair preferred. • ...

Auxo Medical LLC

Field Service Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

If you're mechanically inclined, enjoy working on state-of-the-art machinery, like the challenge of ... apprenticeship experiencePhysical Working ConditionsPosition requires lifting up to 75 lbs, bending ...

WOODFIN HEATING GROUP

Electrical Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

Supervise apprentice Electricians during their training period. * Maintain vehicle, tools, and ... and safe operating condition. * Participate in meetings, workshops, training, and seminars as ...

Woodfin

Electrical Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$24 - $35/hr

Supervise apprentice Electricians during their training period. * Maintain vehicle, tools, and ... and safe operating condition. * Participate in meetings, workshops, training, and seminars as ...

Auxo Medical LLC

Field Service Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

If you're mechanically inclined, enjoy working on state-of-the-art machinery, like the challenge of ... Commercial plumbing, HVAC or electrical apprenticeship experience Physical Working Conditions ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Lead Building Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE § 5+ years of related trade ... Journeyman or Master Electrician License, City Licenses, Operators License, Steam Engineers License ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Asst. Chief Engineer

Richmond, VA

Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE * 5+ years of related ... Journeyman or Master Electrician License, City Licenses, Operators License, Steam Engineers License ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Midlothian, VA

... operating the support equipment that keeps aviation operations moving. With experience, some ... Ability to work safely around aircraft, support equipment, and moving machinery in high noise and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Powhatan, VA

... operating the support equipment that keeps aviation operations moving. With experience, some ... Ability to work safely around aircraft, support equipment, and moving machinery in high noise and ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Richmond, VA

... operating the support equipment that keeps aviation operations moving. With experience, some ... Ability to work safely around aircraft, support equipment, and moving machinery in high noise and ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsApprentice Machine Operator JobsApprentice Machine Operator Jobs in Chester, VA

Apprentice Machine Operator information

See Chester, VA salary details

$12

$18

$27

How much do apprentice machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice machine operator in Chester, VA is $18.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Machine Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes training in CNC or automated systems is typically required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this position. These competencies are essential for maintaining production efficiency, ensuring safety, and supporting smooth operations on the manufacturing floor.

What is the difference between Apprentice Machine Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectApprentice Machine OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly some certificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and relevant certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksFull responsibility for operating machinery in manufacturing or production settings
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning phaseExperienced, capable of independently operating machinery

The Apprentice Machine Operator is in a training phase, gaining skills under supervision, while the Machine Operator is fully responsible for operating equipment independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career in machine operation by providing hands-on experience and certifications needed for full roles.

What is an apprentice machine operator?

An Apprentice Machine Operator is an entry-level worker who is learning how to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot industrial machines under the supervision of experienced operators. Apprentices often work in manufacturing or production settings, where they receive hands-on training and guidance to develop the necessary skills for machine operation. Their tasks typically include setting up machines, monitoring equipment during operation, performing basic maintenance, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Over time, apprentices gain the knowledge and experience needed to become fully qualified machine operators.

What are some common challenges faced by apprentice machine operators during their training period?

Apprentice Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment of a manufacturing floor and learning to troubleshoot machinery under supervision. Mastering safety protocols and understanding the technical nuances of different machines can be demanding at first. Additionally, apprentices must develop effective communication skills to collaborate with experienced operators and maintenance staff, as teamwork is essential for smooth production. However, with hands-on training and mentorship, most apprentices quickly gain confidence and proficiency in their role.
What cities near Chester, VA are hiring for Apprentice Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Chester, VA with the most Apprentice Machine Operator job openings:
Apprentice Machine Operator jobs near you

Bakery - Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Ukrop's Homestyle Foods

Richmond, VA

$24.75 - $31.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Join Ukrop's Homestyle Foods as an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic and help keep our production operations running smoothly! In this role, you'll perform daily maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on essential equipment and facility systems. From electrical and plumbing work to HVAC and mechanical repairs, you'll play a key role in supporting production efficiency and food safety. If you're skilled with your hands, enjoy solving problems, and want to be part of a collaborative and growing team, we'd love to hear from you.

Ukrop's Homestyle Foods: What Drives Us

We are a family-founded company with deep roots in the Richmond community. We value teammates who are Honest, Safe, Helpful, and Ingenuitive. We are committed to creating a workplace culture that reflects those values every day.

What It's Like to Be an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

As an Industrial Maintenance Mechanic at Ukrop's Homestyle Foods, you'll work hands-on with production equipment and building systems to keep our facilities operating at peak performance. You'll troubleshoot issues, perform preventive maintenance, and partner closely with production teams to meet manufacturing goals. Every day brings a variety of tasks, and your role directly impacts product quality, food safety, and operational success.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Perform general repairs, including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, drywall, painting, and door repairs.
  • Install and repair plant production and support equipment quickly and efficiently.
  • Read blueprints and building plans to troubleshoot and resolve issues.
  • Oil and lubricate moving parts on machines to ensure performance.
  • Inspect, troubleshoot, and prioritize maintenance tasks on equipment and systems.
  • Record and report damaged, worn, or broken parts and document completed work.
  • Conduct preventive maintenance on plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.
  • Clean, organize, inventory, and stock shop areas, parts, tools, and supplies.
  • Follow lockout/tagout procedures to ensure equipment safety.
  • Maintain equipment, fire, and electrical safety during plant walkthroughs.
  • Serve as one of the plant's First Responders for emergency situations.
  • Support food safety by following HACCP, GMPs, SSOPs, SQF, and other safety guidelines.
  • Drive company vehicles within the Richmond metro area to pick up parts or assist at other locations.

Preferred Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum 2 years of vocational training, apprenticeship, or relevant experience required.
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Valid driver's license that meets company requirements.
  • Helpful Certifications: Industrial Equipment, LOTO, OSHA-10, GFSI, and Responder Training.

Required Skills and Competencies

  • Diagnose and resolve issues efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
  • Build positive relationships and work collaboratively with teammates and leadership.
  • Dependable and committed to supporting production needs.
  • Take ownership of tasks and complete them accurately and on time.
  • Ability to read schematics, blueprints, and equipment manuals.
  • Flexibility to work varying schedules, including production demands and holidays.

Working Conditions

  • Primarily performed in a production and maintenance shop environment.
  • Exposure to cold and refrigerated areas and occasional work inside freezers.
  • Frequent standing, bending, twisting, climbing, pushing, pulling, and lifting up to 75 lbs.
  • Use of commercial tools, machines, and safety equipment required.
  • Must follow all safety guidelines, including lockout/tagout, PPE usage, and hazard protocols.

Benefits

  • Affordable healthcare upon eligibility
  • Company-sponsored life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • 401(k) plan upon eligibility
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Birthday PTO
  • Referral bonuses
  • Shift differential on eligible shifts
  • Competitive pay
  • and more

Ukrop's Homestyle Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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