ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

CO · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Maintain and operate concentrator equipment Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas Assist with maintenance activities Complete area housekeeping duties Learn and ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Climax, CO

$22 - $29.50/hr

Maintain and operate concentrator equipment * Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas * Assist with maintenance activities * Complete area housekeeping duties

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Maintain and operate concentrator equipment Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas Assist with maintenance activities Complete area housekeeping duties Learn and ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO

$22 - $29.50/hr

Maintain and operate concentrator equipment * Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas * Assist with maintenance activities * Complete area housekeeping duties

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO

$26 - $33/hr

Maintain and operate concentrator equipment * Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas * Assist with maintenance activities * Complete area housekeeping duties

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

Mill Operator Trainee

CO · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Maintain and operate concentrator equipment * Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas * Assist with maintenance activities * Complete area housekeeping duties

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

Process Operator Trainee

CO · On-site

$1.4K/mo

We have operated in Colorado for more than 100 years, with mining and milling operations near ... industrial processing equipment safely. Employees will work under minimal supervision in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Trainee JobsEquipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Colorado

Equipment Operator Trainee information

See Colorado salary details

$9

$17

$27

How much do equipment operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator trainee in Colorado is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $18.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get started as an equipment operator?

To start as an equipment operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or a formal apprenticeship. Obtaining relevant certifications, such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) or equipment-specific licenses, can improve job prospects, and gaining experience with machinery like bulldozers, excavators, or loaders is beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced by Equipment Operator Trainees during their initial training period?

Equipment Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to various types of heavy machinery, learning strict safety protocols, and mastering precise control techniques. The initial training period typically involves both classroom instruction and hands-on practice, which can be physically demanding and mentally intensive. Additionally, trainees must quickly develop effective communication skills to work safely and efficiently with supervisors and team members on busy job sites. Overcoming these challenges is crucial for building confidence and progressing to more advanced operator roles.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Entry-level equipment operator trainee positions often do not require prior experience, but applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Having knowledge of equipment operation, safety procedures, and physical fitness can improve chances of employment, even without prior experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Equipment Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Equipment Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, maintenance tools, and sometimes entry-level certifications like OSHA safety training are commonly required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication help trainees excel and integrate into teams. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient equipment operation and lay the foundation for career advancement in construction or industrial environments.

What do operator trainees do?

Equipment operator trainees learn to operate heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders under supervision. They gain hands-on experience, develop technical skills, and often work toward obtaining certifications or licenses required for full equipment operation. Trainees typically follow safety protocols and assist with construction, maintenance, or excavation tasks.

What is the difference between Equipment Operator Trainee vs Equipment Operator?

AspectEquipment Operator TraineeEquipment Operator
CertificationsMay require OSHA safety training, basic certificationsTypically requires valid certifications, licenses, or licenses depending on equipment
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction zones, or job sites under supervisionActive job sites, operating heavy machinery independently
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning equipment operation, assisting experienced operatorsOperating machinery, performing maintenance, ensuring safety

The main difference between an Equipment Operator Trainee and an Equipment Operator is experience level. Trainees are in training, often under supervision, while Equipment Operators are fully qualified to operate machinery independently. Trainees focus on learning and gaining certifications, whereas Operators perform the actual work on job sites.

What is an Equipment Operator Trainee?

An Equipment Operator Trainee is an entry-level worker who learns how to safely operate heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, excavators, forklifts, or other construction and industrial equipment. Trainees typically work under the supervision of experienced operators, receiving on-the-job training and sometimes classroom instruction. Their responsibilities include learning to inspect equipment, follow safety protocols, and assist with basic maintenance. This role is designed to prepare individuals for advancement to full equipment operator positions as they gain experience and demonstrate proficiency.

What is the highest paid equipment operator?

The highest paid equipment operators are often those who operate specialized machinery such as crane operators, excavator operators, or heavy-duty equipment in industries like construction, mining, or oil and gas. Experience, certifications, and working in high-demand sectors or remote locations can also increase earning potential. Typically, crane operators and heavy equipment operators with advanced skills and certifications earn the highest wages in the field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Equipment Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Equipment Operator Trainee job openings:
Equipment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator Trainee job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,493 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Mill Operator Trainee

Contech Engineered Solutions LLC

Greeley, CO • On-site

$16.75 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Contech Engineered Solutions rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

We are looking for a MILL OPERATOR TRAINEE to join our Greely, CO plant. As a Mill Operator Trainee with Contech you will contribute to America's essential infrastructure including drainage systems, pipe, bridges and structures, and stormwater management.
Why apply?
  • Competitive wages with opportunities for overtime.
  • Company provided benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, disability, Company paid life and disability benefits, paid vacation, and 401K.

About the Role
Responsibilities:
  • Operates overhead cranes, coil handlers or forklifts to move coil from storage to machine area.
  • Threads in-coming coils through mill processes.
  • Operates mill components using manual and automatic control on control panel.
  • Butt welds and grinds strip ends manually.
  • Performs and records all QA check measurements required by the Quality Manual on product being produced.
  • Performs equipment setup, routine mechanical maintenance, and repairs to all mill process equipment.

About You
We Require:
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • The ability to complete & pass the Hel-Cor Mill Certification within 1-year of hire.
  • Certification on forklift operation is preferred.

About Us
If you enjoy facing new challenges each day, consider a career with Contech! We will provide on-the-job training and opportunities to continually learn and grow. Our dedication to ongoing improvement makes Contech a great place to develop your career. We offer:
  • A positive work environment, with a friendly and supportive team.
  • Continuous training for our mill operators and opportunities for advancement.
  • A company dedicated to continuous improvement.

What Contech Engineered Solutions employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply