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Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO · On-site

$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

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

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

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

Process Operator Trainee

CO · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

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 ...

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

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 Learn and ...

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 ...

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Equipment Operator Trainee information

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$27

How much do equipment operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an equipment operator trainee?

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 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.

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.

How long is equipment operator trainee training?

Equipment operator trainee training typically lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the employer and the complexity of the equipment. The training includes classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and safety procedures, often followed by certification or licensing requirements. Ongoing skill development is common as operators gain experience with different machinery and environments.

How to get a equipment operator trainee job with no experience?

To become an equipment operator trainee with no experience, focus on obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent, and consider completing a training program or apprenticeship that provides hands-on experience with heavy machinery. Certifications such as OSHA safety training or equipment-specific courses can improve your chances, and applying to entry-level positions or companies that offer on-the-job training can help you start your career.

How to get started as an equipment operator trainee?

To start as an equipment operator trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers may require a valid driver's license. Gaining experience through entry-level positions or apprenticeships, and obtaining relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training, can improve your prospects. On-the-job training is common, and developing skills in operating machinery and understanding safety protocols is essential.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,493 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

System Operator Trainee

Tri-State Generation & Transmission

Westminster, CO • On-site

$42/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

System Operator Trainee

Responsible for gaining a comprehensive working knowledge of all aspects of System Operations through formal training courses, on-the-job training, field training and self-study. The Trainee will progress through a phased training program to teach the Trainee all of the aspects of System Operations including scheduling, electrical fundamentals, transmission system switching, transmission system reliability, and emergency response. The training is to be completed within 24 months. Participate, under the direction of a NERC Certified System Operator, in daily routine or emergency operations of the power system.

Tri-State recognizes the value of a highly engaged and committed workforce and provides an excellent benefits program that includes: Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Work Schedules, Life Insurance, 401K, Long Term Disability (LTD), Short Term Disability (STD), Employee Assistant Program (EAP) and Paid Leave Benefits.

System Operator Trainee Hiring Wage: $42.00

Responsibilities
  • Complete and pass TSGT System Operator Trainee training course designed for System Operations.
  • Participate, under the direction of a NERC Certified System Operator, in daily routine or emergency operations of the power system.
  • Develop a working knowledge of the EMS/SCADA (Energy Management System/Supervisor Control and Data Acquisition) system and become competent in its operation including the performance of real-time system studies.
  • Develop a working knowledge of the electrical transmission system to include transmission lines, substations, telecommunications, and all other major related components.
  • Become competent on all communications equipment to include radio and telephone equipment and other associated devices.
  • Become competent on various computer applications for data entry, report writing, and data exchange.
  • Complete field assignments with Tri‑State crews in order to learn transmission, substation, and generation job functions. Minimum of one week with each field discipline, or as required.
  • Develop a working knowledge of all WECC major transmission paths and their impact on the interconnected system (i.e. TOTs).
  • Learn the basic fundamentals of coal fired, combined cycle and combustion turbine generation, hydroelectric, and renewable generation technologies (i.e. wind and solar) to include terminology, characteristics and limitations.
  • Develop a working knowledge of Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) and/or Independent System Operator (ISO) reliability functions.
  • Gain a working knowledge of power scheduling, power contracts, and learn basic power marketing principles.
  • Learn and comply with safe work and clearance procedures as they apply to routine and emergency situations.
  • Understand and fulfill the role and responsibility for all compliance programs within the company.
  • Because Tri-State is an electric utility with continuous service obligations to its customers, regular, reliable, and predictable performance of the essential functions and responsibilities is an essential function of the job.
  • Because Tri-State has an obligation to provide continuous, reliable electric service to its customers, the ability to work overtime at any time of the day or week is considered an essential function of the job.
Qualifications

Education and Training

  • High school education or equivalent. Associate degree in electronics or electrical technology or equivalent. Completion of technical training/schooling such as military A school training, desirable. Working knowledge of algebra, geometry and basic principles of physics.

Knowledge, Skills, and Ability:

  • Ability to learn electrical and mechanical theory, AC and DC circuits and the fundamentals of power flow.
  • Must become NERC System Operator Certified in the first six months of employment.
  • Must maintain NERC System Operator Certification by obtaining the required continuing education hours.
  • Must be able to distinguish full range of colors; position duties involve the use of computer monitor which displays color-coded electric system diagrams.
  • Willingness to work rotating shifts.
  • Ability to use or learn computer terminal.
  • Ability to communicate, both orally and written.
  • Working knowledge of safety rules and equipment.
  • Ability to work under stress.
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships.

Experience:

  • Zero (0) to two and one half (2 ½) years of related experience.

Other:

  • Willingness to travel as required. (Must possess a valid driver's license.)
  • Utility experience in power plant or field maintenance is desired or military equivalent.

DESIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS

  • NERC Certification
About Us

Tri-State is a wholesale power supply cooperative, operating on a not-for-profit basis, with electric distribution cooperatives and public power district members in four states: Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming. Together with its members, Tri-State delivers reliable, affordable and responsible power and energy services to nearly a million electricity consumers across roughly 200,000 square miles of the West. Founded in 1952 by its member systems to provide a reliable, cost-based supply of electricity, Tri-State is now headquartered in Westminster, Colo., employing approximately 1,000 people across five states. Tri-State's electricity is generated from coal, natural gas, hydropower, wind, and solar. This power reaches members via a transmission system that includes substation facilities, telecommunications sites and almost 6,000 miles of high voltage transmission lines. As a member-owned and -governed cooperative, every member has a voice and an equal vote in the future of Tri-State.

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