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Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Fike

Laser Operator Trainee

Blue Springs, MO · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Laser Operator Trainee, 2nd shift Fike Corporation, a rapidly growing international manufacturer of pressure relief, explosion protection, fire suppression and detection equipment, has an opportunity ...

Fike

Cylinder Fill Operator Trainee

Blue Springs, MO · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cylinder Fill Operator Trainee Fike Corporation, a rapidly growing international manufacturer of pressure relief, explosion protection, fire suppression and detection equipment, has an opportunity ...

Fike

Rupture Disc Operator Trainee

Blue Springs, MO · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rupture Disc Operator Trainee, 2nd shift. Fike Corporation, a rapidly growing international ... Cleans work area, tools, and equipment. * Adheres to safety practices, 6S, and follows Fike ...

City of Springfield, MO

Plant Operator II

Springfield, MO · On-site

$39K - $66K/yr

... thickening equipment, mixed media filtration, cryogenic oxygen generation and ozone generation ... Plant Operator Trainee Experience, Education, and Training * At least six months of experience in ...

Fike

Rupture Disc Operator Trainee

Blue Springs, MO · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rupture Disc Operator Trainee, Days Fike Corporation, a rapidly growing international manufacturer ... Cleans work area, tools, and equipment. * Adheres to safety practices, 6S, and follows Fike ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$16.50 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Startup and shutdown of equipment and processes per standard operating procedures, * Housekeeping in order to maintain an organized - dust free - oil free work environment, * Perform key operations ...

ADM

Operator Trainee - Deerfield, MO

Deerfield, MO

$21.74/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... equipment, Raw material handling,Startup and shutdown of equipment and processes per standard operating procedures, Housekeeping in order to maintain an organized - dust free - oil free work ...

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All JobsEquipment Operator JobsEquipment Operator Trainee JobsEquipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Missouri

Equipment Operator Trainee information

See Missouri 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 Missouri is $15.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.77 and $16.75 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 Missouri?

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

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

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

Equipment Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator Trainee job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,837 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Laser Operator Trainee

Fike

Blue Springs, MO • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Fike Corporation rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Laser Operator Trainee, 2nd shift
Fike Corporation, a rapidly growing international manufacturer of pressure relief, explosion protection, fire suppression and detection equipment, has an opportunity for a Laser Operator Trainee, 2nd shift position. Fike is a privately held business located in Blue Springs, MO with over 400 employees locally & over 1,200 employees worldwide.
At Fike, our people are our strength. In order to fulfill our greatest potential, we are committed to attracting, growing and retaining a diverse and inclusive workforce. Better, Together as oneFike!
Job Summary:
Sets-up and operates laser to manufacture parts per order specifications. Items to be processed may include formed or flat sheet metal parts in a wide variety of metals. Position is focused on learning and development.
Compensation: starting at $20 per hour and is based on the candidate's experience.
This position will work second shift Monday - Thursday, 3:15pm - 1:45am
*Training will take place on the first shift (M-F, 7am-3:30pm) for approximately 2-3 months. Once training is complete, the role will transition to the permanent 2nd shift schedule (M-TH, 3:15pm-1:45am).
Primary Responsibilities:
  1. Studies technical drawings, specification or sample part to determine dimensions and tolerances of finished work pieces, sequence of operations and set-up requirements.
  2. Assists with routine maintenance associated with start-up, shutdown and operation of laser.
  3. Ensures material is clean then lifts, moves, and secures fixtures and/or material to machine.
  4. Selects proper program to process part.
  5. Adjusts dimensional parameters to meet order requirements using the machine functional program, Inventor.
  6. Aids in the selection and optimization of cutting parameters for example: power setting, gas pressure, nozzle size, and cutting speed.
  7. Performs first article and in-process inspection with aid from another operator.
  8. Removes processed parts and scrap from machine.
  9. Shearing or manual folding may be required to consolidate scrap. De-burring or cleaning may be required to meet order requirements.
  10. Enters data into the Fike Business System upon completion of work order.
  11. Adheres to safety practices and procedures.
  12. Follows procedures as defined by Fike policies, procedures and ISO9001 requirements.
  13. Maintains confidentiality of all information processed.

Performs related duties as assigned. Regular and consistent attendance is required.
Physical Demands:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand. The employee frequently is required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds using appropriate moving devices. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment:
The employee is frequently exposed to guarded moving mechanical parts. The noise level has the potential for exposures of 85 decibels and greater; hearing protection may be required.
Essential Skills:
Computer Applications. Basic Programming Language. Inspecting/Examining. Mechanical. Housekeeping. Troubleshooting.
Job Qualifications:
REQUIRED: High School Diploma or a General Educational Development Diploma (GED). Working knowledge and experience measuring tools such as dial calipers, tape measures, protractors, micrometers and squares. Ability to read, interpret documents and manuals, use a keyboard, and follow instructions, work orders and technical/engineered drawings.
PREFERRED: Strong geometric visualization skills. CAD and/or CAM experience. Effective math skills. Thorough knowledge of JD Edwards business systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
Working at Fike:
At Fike, our people are our strength. In order to fulfill our greatest potential, we are committed to attracting, growing and retaining a diverse and inclusive workforce. Better, Together as oneFike! Plus, at Fike, we offer benefits and perks to help make you smile and feel like family.
Check out our competitive benefits package which includes:
Three Weeks Paid Time Off (PTO) & Paid Holidays
Medical Plans with FSA & HSA, Vision & Dental Plan
Paid Life and Long-term Disability Insurance
401(k) and Roth 401(k) Plan with Company Match Fully Vested on Day One!
Profit Sharing Bonus Program
Education Reimbursement
Employee Assistance Program
On-Site Fitness Center & Award Winning Wellness Program
Reimbursement for Safety Shoes & Glasses
Service awards & Recognition Program
Company Picnic, Quarterly Events and Holiday Lunch
Free Coffee/Tea, Lunch Utensils, Lunch Room Mini-mart, Free Parking
Refer to Req ID 3906. Please visit our web site at www.fike.com to fill out an application.
Fike is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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