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Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Sabert

Operator Trainee

Shepherdsville, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

... Operator. These duties include following the production schedule and making sure all supplies ... Must wear all assigned safety personal protective equipment, may be position specific, at all times ...

Sabert Corporation

Operator Trainee

Shepherdsville, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

... Operator. These duties include following the production schedule and making sure all supplies ... Must wear all assigned safety personal protective equipment, may be position specific, at all times ...

UACJ Automotive Whitehall

Press Operator Trainee

Paducah, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Operate all equipment which is part of extrusion * Familiar with operating procedures and paperwork at the B/O saw * Read, understand and implement instructions on routing tickets/HMI * Use Cadex ...

United Dairy Farmers

FIRST ASST MGR TRAINEE

Wilder, KY · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

First Assistant Manager Trainee Reports to: Store Manager Schedule: Full Time (40 hours per week ... operating instructions for store equipment and to operate all store equipment. • Ability to ...

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Equipment Operator Trainee information

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 Kentucky?

The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Equipment Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Equipment Operator Trainee job openings:

Equipment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator Trainee job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Operator Trainee

Sabert

Shepherdsville, KY • On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Sabert rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 120 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

          • Description

            BASIC FUNCTION

            Learn the required procedures to operate an extruder/thermoformer as a Level 1 Operator. These duties include following the production schedule and making sure all supplies needed for production runs are available. Perform other related duties as assigned.

            REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

            Safety

            • Must wear all assigned safety personal protective equipment, may be position specific, at all times as required by Sabert polic
            • Adheres to all safety policies and reports
            • Must be trained and able to perform proper lockout-tagout procedures
            • Must be trained and able to perform proper confined space entry
            • Must be properly trained to use hand tools that are required to perform operator duties
            • Must be trained in proper operation of power tools required for daily duties
            • Trained Behavior Based Safety Champion

            Cleanliness

            • Must keep entire line in a neat and clean manner using 6S principles and good manufacturing practice

            Material Handling

            • Must be able to set up and operate material blender system to keep production line supplied with
            • Knowledgeable in the startup and operation of a material weigh hopper
            • Must be able to startup and operate the vacuum loading system including the vacuum control
            • Knowledgeable in the operation, function, and cleaning requirements of the dust control

            Quality

            • Must make sure that all product that is produced meets or exceeds minimum standards for quality packaged finished goods
            • Perform quality checks, such as part weight, proper form, lid fit, sheet thickness, water leak test, and CPET oven test, on production at specified intervals and record results on proper paperwork.
            • Must abide by all food safety regulations such as Good Manufacturing Practices and sliver control procedures

            Miscellaneous

            • Other related duties as assigned

            QUALIFICATIONS

            EXPERIENCE:

            • Previous manufacturing experience a must

            CERTIFICATION, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

            PHYSICALDEMANDS - HOURLY POSITIONS

            • Standing(95% of the Day)
            • Lifting (no more than 40 lbs)
            • Heat Related ( when working on extruder die)
            • Work in accordance with all company policies and procedures regarding employment, safety, quality, product safety and legality, security, and regulatory compliance as applicable

What Sabert employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Sabert

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sayreville, NJ, US

Year founded

1983

Social media

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