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Control Room Operator Trainee Jobs in Henderson, NE

Process Operator

York, NE

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Keep facility, control room, and break room clean including mopping and hosing down plant floors - tour ready conditions. * Keep operators, coming on shift, briefed on what has happened and what is ...

Process Operator

York, NE · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Keep facility, control room, and break room clean including mopping and hosing down plant floors - tour ready conditions. * Keep operators, coming on shift, briefed on what has happened and what is ...

Process Operator - Nights

York, NE

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Keep facility, control room, and break room clean including mopping and hosing down plant floors - tour ready conditions. * Keep operators, coming on shift, briefed on what has happened and what is ...

Process Operator - Nights

York, NE · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Keep facility, control room, and break room clean including mopping and hosing down plant floors - tour ready conditions. * Keep operators, coming on shift, briefed on what has happened and what is ...

Control Room Operator Trainee information

See Henderson, NE salary details

$13

$23

$42

How much do control room operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for control room operator trainee in Henderson, NE is $23.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a control room operator trainee do?

A Control Room Operator Trainee assists in monitoring and managing operations within a facility’s control room, such as a power plant, manufacturing facility, or industrial site. Their responsibilities include observing equipment, reporting abnormalities, learning to operate control systems, and supporting experienced operators to ensure smooth and safe plant operations. Trainees receive hands-on training and gradually take on more responsibilities as they gain experience. This role is crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and adherence to operational protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a control room operator trainee?

To thrive as a Control Room Operator Trainee, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, basic computer literacy, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, DCS panels, and plant monitoring software is often required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of critical facility processes.

What are some typical challenges faced by control room operator trainees during their initial training period?

Control Room Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as quickly learning to monitor multiple systems simultaneously, adapting to fast-paced decision-making, and understanding complex safety protocols. They must also become proficient with specialized software and equipment, while maintaining clear communication with field personnel and other departments. Overcoming these challenges usually involves hands-on experience, mentorship from experienced operators, and continuous learning to build confidence and competence in the control room environment.

What is the difference between Control Room Operator Trainee vs Control Room Operator?

AspectControl Room Operator TraineeControl Room Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some certifications may be preferredRequires relevant certifications or licenses, such as safety or industry-specific credentials
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, often in a control room settingFull responsibility for monitoring and controlling operations in the control room
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position in industries like power plants, manufacturing, or utilitiesFull-time role with operational duties in similar industries

The Control Room Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience under supervision, while the Control Room Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for ongoing operations. The trainee role prepares individuals for the responsibilities of the control room operator position.

How do you become a control room operator?

To become a control room operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training, and sometimes an industry-specific certification. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions in related fields can also be beneficial, along with developing skills in monitoring systems, communication, and problem-solving.

What qualifications do you need to be a control room operator trainee?

Control room operator trainees typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong communication and problem-solving skills, and basic knowledge of control systems or relevant technical training. Some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training or specific industry licenses. Prior experience in operations or technical environments can be advantageous but is not always mandatory.

What cities near Henderson, NE are hiring for Control Room Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Henderson, NE with the most Control Room Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Control Room Operator Trainee job openings in Henderson, NE as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,233 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Green Plains rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Summary:  This position requires accurate and accountable performance of all necessary duties to ensure safe and efficient operations in the fermentation and distillation areas of the facility. This position works under the immediate supervision of the Operations Manager and functionally reports to the Team Leader at the location.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Learn all facets of the ethanol process including: cook, distillation, evaporation, dryers, thermo oxidizer, centrifuges, grain system, and water treatment.
  • Learn and operate DCS (computer control system) for the plant.
  • Follow Standard Operating Procedures for plant start-up, shut down, cleaning and batching.
  • Stay within operating parameters set by Plant/Production Manager and notify management of any production problems.
  • Keep accurate and timely logs.
  • Collect samples and do the necessary tests to ensure consistent and quality product and record results.
  • Monitor and make adjustments on the (DCS) computer according to the results of the samples and to keep within parameters and record changes.
  • Keep facility, control room, and break room clean including mopping and hosing down plant floors – tour ready conditions.
  • Keep operators, coming on shift, briefed on what has happened and what is supposed to be done during the next shift.
  • Work closely with maintenance and inform them of any mechanical problems.
  • Communicate with the Laboratory and learn testing procedures including but not limited to yeast counts, microwave analyzer, HPLC, and the GC.
  • Responsible for notifying Production/ Plant Manager of any production problems.
  • Complete any and all tasks assigned by the Plant Manager/Production Manager.
  • Help out in other areas as needed.
  • Available occasionally for call in work and overtime.
  • Participate in safety programs and ongoing training sessions.
  • Required to follow all safety procedures.

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Requires a valid driver’s license.
  • Be able to operate utility vehicle.
  • Must be hard working and self-motivated
  • Detail-oriented; proficiency for accuracy; dependable; positive attitude; team player.
  • Ability to multi-task and take ownership of assigned projects.
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • No experience necessary.
  • Experience in industrial production plants helpful.
  • Maintaining a thorough understanding of applicable regulatory requirements of FRA, TTB and state regulations.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

  • Must be able to manage confined space entry, climb ladders and steps, lift up to 60 lbs, and work at heights.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to work near moving mechanical parts.
  • The employee is regularly exposed to dusty conditions.
  • The employee is regularly exposed to high noise environments.
  • The employee is regularly exposed to outside weather in all conditions.
  • The employee will regularly be exposed to chemicals used in the process.

Green Plains Inc. offers competitive pay: a generous benefit package including business casual work environment, health, dental, vision, life insurance, paid holidays, Paid Time Off (PTO) and a 401(k) retirement plan with immediate vesting and company safe harbor matching. All potential employees of Green Plains Inc. will be required to successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check prior to employment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may be assigned.

Company Description

Green Plains Inc. (NASDAQ:GPRE) is a leading biorefining company focused on disciplined execution and leadership in lowcarbon biofuels and highvalue ingredients. The company operates a performancedriven platform focused on maximizing yield, lowering carbon intensity, and delivering longterm value through responsible capital deployment.


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