1

Equipment Operator Trainee Jobs in Jackson, MS (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

Sensory Requirements Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for making observations; reading and writing; operating assigned equipment; assessing the situation at an ...

... operating in accordance with company standards and procedures. You will be responsible for 3 ... trainees in their assigned area and conduct only open and closed evaluations to determine the ...

Equipment Operator Trainee information

See Jackson, MS salary details

$9

$17

$27

How much do equipment operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator trainee in Jackson, MS 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 Jackson, MS?

The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Jackson, MS are:

What cities near Jackson, MS are hiring for Equipment Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Jackson, MS with the most Equipment Operator Trainee job openings:

Management Trainee (Onsite: Memphis, TN)

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

Richland, MS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Old Dominion Freight Line rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description

At Old Dominion, we don't just move freight-we help businesses keep their promises. As one of the nation's leading LTL carriers, we've earned our reputation by putting people first, delivering premium service, and staying true to the values that have guided us for more than 90 years. Our PROMISES values shape how we work, our family culture shapes how we treat one another, and our commitment to being the Best in the Game drives everything we do. If you're looking for more than just a job, you'll find a career built on trust, teamwork, and opportunity at OD.


For those with a passion for leadership and a drive to excel, this program offers the perfect foundation for a successful career in operations management. Old Dominion Freight Line's Management Trainee program provides hands-on experience in all aspects of service center operations, from logistics and freight management to team leadership. With mentorship from industry experts and the opportunity to earn your CDL, you'll build the skills and knowledge needed to grow within a thriving, fast-paced environment. This is an exciting opportunity to develop your potential and gain valuable insight into a company that values excellence, teamwork, and professional growth.

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. is currently recruiting Management Trainees who will receive hands on training in all wage and salaried jobs to learn to manage a shift or an operational area in a service center. Once hands-on training is completed in each area the trainee fills in as a supervisor on various shifts and departments. The trainee will learn to manage a shift while emphasizing safety, quality, efficiency, service and delivery. The trainee also completes assignments while being assessed through knowledge indicators, writing papers, viewing management videos, recommending process improvements on operating procedures. Participates in Old Dominion Truck Driving Training program to receive a CDL license, participates in forklift training program and management and leadership training courses as scheduled.

Responsibilities

  • Complete shift manager's training as an understudy with an experienced manager or supervisor.
  • Trainees will complete forklift job training knowledge and production exercises on all jobs within the service center.
  • Trainees will participate in ODTDT (Old Dominion Truck Driving Training) program to obtain CDL license.
  • Fill in as a supervisor on various shifts and departments.
  • Completes department/area knowledge indicators and develops new indicators as well as process and procedure changes.
  • Works in AS400 moving freight as needed throughout the system and maintains records of efficiency, quality, cost, hot loads, missed loads, etc.
  • Works in Workday as needed to update payroll and employee information.
  • Writes and submits monthly activity reports.
  • Assigns work to employees according to daily schedule.
  • Makes quick and informed decisions based on the volume levels and communicates schedule to affected employees.
  • Inspects working conditions of tools and equipment needed for safe operation within the area and directs the correction of any improper or adverse condition that exists.
  • Approximately 15% travel to other service centers to learn the operations and supervise in a different environment.

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor's degree
  • Good working knowledge of computer/PC software (WORD, EXCEL). AS400 background helpful.
  • Good communications skills, both Oral and Written
  • Solid work history (if applicable)
  • Professional appearance
  • Must be open to relocation when trainee program is completed.

Working Days:

Shift and hours to be determined.

Working Shift:

Shift and hours to be determined.

Work days/shifts may change based on scheduling and business needs and are provided as guidelines at the time of posting.


Join the OD Family Today!
As a Full Time member of our Family, you and your family are eligible to receive:

  • Great Health Benefits including a Zero premium medical plan for employee only coverage
  • Vision & Dental
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Flex Spending Accounts
  • 401k Retirement plan with company match and additional company annual discretionary match opportunity
  • Life Insurance
  • Wellness Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement for Drivers and Technicians
  • Training and growth opportunities to build a career
  • We prioritize our OD family of employees
  • Ability to advance through our promote from within philosophy
  • National Career Opportunities Available at our 260+ service centers

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, and/orgender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information,military status, Vietnam Era and/or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law(s).

If you have questions regarding this posting or require assistance with the application process, please click here for contact information.


What Old Dominion Freight Line employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Old Dominion Freight logo

About Old Dominion Freight

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Old Dominion Freight Line, often referred to as Old Dominion or ODFL, is based out of Thomasville, North Carolina, in the United States and operates within the industry of Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) carrier services. Their services include regional, super-regional, and intrastate domestic shipping, assembly and distribution, container delivery, truckload brokerage, supply chain consulting, and expedited freight delivery. Established in 1934, Old Dominion has grown from a single truck running a 94-mile route in Virginia to a leading national LTL carrier with over 235 service centres.

Industry

Trucking

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Thomasville, NC, US

Year founded

1934