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Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Reece Group

Trainee

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Use various moving equipment to handle large materials * Ensure forklifts are kept in good and safe ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Reece Group

Trainee

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Use various moving equipment to handle large materials * Ensure forklifts are kept in good and safe ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Reece Group

Waterworks Trainee

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Use various moving equipment to handle large materials * Ensure forklifts are kept in good and safe ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Reece Group

Waterworks Trainee

Brunswick, GA

Use various moving equipment to handle large materials * Ensure forklifts are kept in good and safe ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Reece Group

Waterworks Trainee

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Use various moving equipment to handle large materials * Ensure forklifts are kept in good and safe ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Cumming, GA · On-site

... equipment, gauges and controls are in proper working order. Report any safety issues on standard ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Cumming, GA · On-site

... equipment, gauges and controls are in proper working order. Report any safety issues on standard ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Brunswick, GA · On-site

... equipment, gauges and controls are in proper working order. Report any safety issues on standard ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Cumming, GA

... equipment, gauges and controls are in proper working order. Report any safety issues on standard ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Winder, GA · On-site

... equipment, gauges and controls are in proper working order. Report any safety issues on standard ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Winder, GA · On-site

... equipment, gauges and controls are in proper working order. Report any safety issues on standard ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

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All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Trainee JobsEquipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Georgia

Equipment Operator Trainee information

See Georgia salary details

$8

$14

$22

How much do equipment operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator trainee in Georgia is $14.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.41 and $14.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 gaining basic knowledge of machinery and safety procedures through online courses or vocational training. Many employers offer on-the-job training for entry-level candidates, so applying to companies that hire trainees and demonstrating a willingness to learn can improve your chances; obtaining a valid driver's license and physical fitness are also important. Certifications such as OSHA safety training can enhance your application.

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.

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 or equipment-specific licenses, can improve your prospects. On-the-job training is common, and developing skills in operating machinery, safety procedures, and maintenance is essential for advancement.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Georgia? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Georgia are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Equipment Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Equipment Operator Trainee job openings:
Equipment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator Trainee job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,337 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

WRF Operator Trainee

City of Gainesville, GA

Gainesville, GA

$37K - $47K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Summary This position is designated as safety-sensitive. As such, a pre-employment physical examination and drug screening are mandatory. The incumbent will also be subject to random drug and alcohol testing throughout the duration of employment.

Receives classroom and on the job training while assisting other WRF Operators on any shift at their assigned plant treating wastewater to assure the plant effluent is clean and environmentally safe and meets all applicable standards for purity. Job Duties Collects materials for samples and performs several types of tests including solids; pH, jar test; reads and records levels of digesters, equalization basin, etc; records appropriate information; notifies WRF Operators of any abnormalities. Checks calibration of chemical feed pumps every two hours.

Adjusts Waste Activated Sludge valves settings as needed; pumps out sludge boxes as needed; cleans sample bottles, auto sampler, and other facilities as needed. May operate press machines, checking valve settings and making adjustments as necessary. Mixes polymers and adjusts levels according to solids tests; checks filtrate and cleans tanks.

Drains lines and traps; dump press when cycle complete; greases press rails and changes cloths. Cleans press building and basement. Collects and delivers samples for lab analysis; checks equipment to assure proper operation.

Records dissolved oxygen readings in aeration basin, flow control structure, and post aeration basin; performs settleometer and spin tests. Provides shift coverage for Operators on approved leave. Performs pH tests on septic tank loads and accepts load if within proper range.

Maintains plant grounds; cuts grass, trims shrubs, etc. Paints buildings, equipment, pipes, railways, pumps, etc. as necessary; washes different units.

Performs other related duties as required. Employee subject to recall to duty in cases of emergency. Minimum Qualifications Education and Experience: High School Diploma or G.E.D

No experience required. Applicants who pass an initial screening will be required take a pre-employment math/science exam to predict their abilities to obtain the required certifications. Licenses and Certifications: Employee must obtain Class III Wastewater Treatment Operator License within one year.

Valid Class C Driver's License and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of the principles and practices for the safe operation of plant equipment and related measuring and testing devices. Knowledge of activated sludge and biological treatment of water.

Knowledge of the tests used to determine the amount of chemicals present in water. Basic proficiency in mathematics and science. Ability to perform chemical analysis tests and interpret results.

Ability to read and interpret charts. Able to lift 50 lbs. Ability to climb up to 70 stairs 05/08.

Supplemental Information This class specification should not be interpreted as all inclusive. It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job. The incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this specification.

Current incumbent qualifies for a promotion to Operator III position upon Plant Manager recommendation and Director concurrence after attainment of a Class III Wastewater Treatment Operator License. The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity employer. The City of Gainesville prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The City of Gainesville conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.

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