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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Operator Trainee information

See Louisiana salary details

$10

$15

$20

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Louisiana is $15.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get started as a machine operator trainee?

To start as a machine operator trainee, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and basic mechanical skills. Employers often provide on-the-job training, but having familiarity with tools, safety procedures, and the ability to follow instructions can be beneficial. Some positions may require certifications in safety or equipment operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine operator trainee?

To thrive as a Machine Operator Trainee, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing equipment, safety protocols, and basic computer systems or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel in fast-paced production environments. These abilities are crucial for ensuring operational efficiency, minimizing downtime, and maintaining workplace safety.

What is the difference between Machine Operator Trainee vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine Operator TraineeMachine Operator
CredentialsMay require a high school diploma or equivalent; training provided on the jobTypically requires relevant certifications or licenses; experience preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning phaseFull operational environment, responsible for machine operation
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting and learning machine operation tasksOperating machinery independently, ensuring safety and efficiency

The main difference is that a Machine Operator Trainee is in a learning phase, often supervised and still acquiring skills, while a Machine Operator is fully responsible for operating machinery independently. Trainees focus on gaining experience, whereas operators perform the job routinely with established skills.

What are some common challenges machine operator trainees face during their initial months on the job?

Machine Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as learning to operate complex machinery safely, adapting to fast-paced production environments, and mastering quality control procedures. Adjusting to shift work and understanding the importance of teamwork in a manufacturing setting can also take time. However, most employers provide hands-on training and mentorship to support new trainees as they build confidence and proficiency in their roles.

What is a machine operator trainee?

A machine operator trainee is an entry-level worker learning to operate manufacturing or industrial machinery under supervision. The role involves gaining skills in equipment operation, safety procedures, and maintenance, often requiring on-the-job training and sometimes certifications. Trainees typically work in manufacturing environments and develop technical proficiency for full machine operator positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Louisiana? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Louisiana are:
What cities in Louisiana are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Louisiana with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,347 per year, or $15.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

PCM & Affiliated Companies

Lake Charles, LA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Position Summary: Operates traveling or stationary crane to lift, move, and position loads, such as structural parts of ships or vessels, related machinery, equipment, products and materials, using hoisting attachments such as hooks, clamps, slings, electro-magnet, or bucket. Operate earth moving equipment in the scope of job duties such as but not limited to excavation, and soil grading. Working Conditions: Scheduled workdays cover Monday thru Friday.

Weekends and holidays as required. Works in all kinds of weather. Subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions.

May be required to perform work at a remote location. Subject to ultra violet light, electrical hazards, vibration, noise, and a variety of other physical conditions, such as the proximity to moving mechanical parts, working at heights greater than 6 ft., and working over water. May be required to work alone and in confined spaces

Subject to very dramatic temperature changes. Also present are fumes, smoke, dust, gases, chemicals, and hydrocarbons. Protective clothing, hearing and eye protection, hardhats, safety shoes or boots, and respiratory protection are all to be worn accordingly.

Essential Job Functions (listing most important first): 1. Observes load hookup and determines safety of load. 2.

Manipulates or depresses controls, such as pedals, levers, and buttons, to regulate speed and direction of equipment and hoist movement according to written, verbal, or signal instructions. 3. Cleans and maintains crane/excavation and hoisting mechanism.

4. Regularly inspects equipment for defective parts and notifies supervisor of defects or malfunctions. 5.

May attach load to hook or other crane accessory prior to operating crane/excavation equipment. 6. May repair defective parts on crane/excavation equipment.

7. May also operate overhead cranes and other lifting equipment, and other company vehicles. Essential Job Requirements: Education and Vocational: Must be able to read and write alphabetically and numerically.Technical school, on the job training; serving as a learner or trainee on the job under the instruction of a qualified worker

Must be able to provide verifiable references of past work experience. Physical Requirements: Repetitive sequences that require balancing, climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, finger manipulation, grasping, feeling, seeing, hearing, speaking, and an acute sense of smell.This position is classified as medium work exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements exceed those for light work

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER: The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.I have read and fully understand the job description and all of the requirements necessary to successfully and safely perform this job.