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Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

City of Flint, MI

Street Operator/Maintainer Trainee I

Flint, MI · On-site

$17.50 - $20.20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... equipment. Performs other related duties as assigned. The training program is geared toward ... Street Operator/Maintainer Trainee II (19-G-020) Completes an additional twelve months of on-the ...

Alco Manufacturing Co

Hydromat Machine Operator

Grand Haven, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Assists in the instruction of set-up, operators, and operator trainees. Diagnose, troubleshoot and ... The employee must have the ability to operate manufacturing equipment and be able to keep up in a ...

Alco Manufacturing Co

Hydromat Machine Operator

Grand Haven, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Assists in the instruction of set-up, operators, and operator trainees. Diagnose, troubleshoot and ... The employee must have the ability to operate manufacturing equipment and be able to keep up in a ...

Hydromax USA

Technician Trainee - Water

Novi, MI · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Safely operate, maintain, and clean all equipment. * Gather precise data from each inspection point ... Perform repairs on fire hydrants and water main valve operating nuts. * Maintain open and effective ...

Pratt Industries

Supervisor Trainee

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Production Trainee will be responsible for safely operating equipment, supporting quality standards, minimizing downtime, and recommending improvements to operations to meet customer demand.

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Muskegon, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

Manistee, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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

Muskegon, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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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Showing results 21-40

All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Trainee JobsEquipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Michigan

Equipment Operator Trainee information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$15

$25

How much do equipment operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator trainee in Michigan is $15.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.88 and $16.89 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

Equipment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator Trainee job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,112 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

PRESS OPERATOR TRAINEE

UACJ Automotive Whitehall

Ludington, MI • On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Other

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Qualifications:
  • Education and Experience: Must have a sound understanding of extrusion process
  • Knowledge: Able to read and interpret extrusion drawings. Knowledge of precision measuring devices and their applications
  • Skills & Abilities: Good mechanical and technical aptitude. Understanding and ability in the use of a computer. Able to work under minimum supervision

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the Job:
  1. Read production schedules and record accurate information
  2. Inspect extrusions for compliance with specifications, communicate potential problems and determine acceptability.
  3. Strive to maximize production targets and maintain a quality product while minimizing production scrap and cost. Use discretionary judgment to quickly correct production deviations
  4. Operate all equipment which is part of extrusion
  5. Familiar with operating procedures and paperwork at the B/O saw
  6. Read, understand and implement instructions on routing tickets/HMI
  7. Use Cadex system to improve dies performance
  8. Assist with training of employees as required
  9. Follow procedures set by the recipes
  10. Inform maintenance when equipment needs attention
  11. Follow up press practices base on various alloys
  12. Communicate well with quality department
  13. Other duties as required

Training Requirements: New Employee Orientation Program
Level of Authority: None
Physical Demands: Requires standing for long periods of time and some walking (up to 7 hours). Requires using hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls. Requires frequent repetitive movement, bending or twisting, and lifting up to 10 lbs frequently, and occasionally up to 50 lbs. Requires exposure to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable and wearing common protective or safety equipment.
Qualifications:
  • Education and Experience: Must have a sound understanding of extrusion process
  • Knowledge: Able to read and interpret extrusion drawings. Knowledge of precision measuring devices and their applications
  • Skills & Abilities: Good mechanical and technical aptitude. Understanding and ability in the use of a computer. Able to work under minimum supervision

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the Job:
  1. Read production schedules and record accurate information
  2. Inspect extrusions for compliance with specifications, communicate potential problems and determine acceptability.
  3. Strive to maximize production targets and maintain a quality product while minimizing production scrap and cost. Use discretionary judgment to quickly correct production deviations
  4. Operate all equipment which is part of extrusion
  5. Familiar with operating procedures and paperwork at the B/O saw
  6. Read, understand and implement instructions on routing tickets/HMI
  7. Use Cadex system to improve dies performance
  8. Assist with training of employees as required
  9. Follow procedures set by the recipes
  10. Inform maintenance when equipment needs attention
  11. Follow up press practices base on various alloys
  12. Communicate well with quality department
  13. Other duties as required

Training Requirements: New Employee Orientation Program
Level of Authority: None
Physical Demands: Requires standing for long periods of time and some walking (up to 7 hours). Requires using hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls. Requires frequent repetitive movement, bending or twisting, and lifting up to 10 lbs frequently, and occasionally up to 50 lbs. Requires exposure to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable and wearing common protective or safety equipment.

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