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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Clean Harbors

CDL Route Driver

Salisbury, MA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Safety-Kleen in Salisbury, MA seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures. * Observe all company ...

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Machine Operator Trainee information

See Massachusetts salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Massachusetts is $19.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

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.

How to get started as a machine operator?

To start as a machine operator trainee, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and gain basic technical skills. Completing on-the-job training or technical courses related to machinery operation and safety certifications can improve employment prospects. Familiarity with tools, safety procedures, and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Some high-paying jobs for machine operator trainees or experienced machine operators can reach $700 a day, especially in specialized industries like manufacturing, construction, or oil and gas. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, or working in remote or high-demand environments, and may involve overtime or shift work to achieve such earnings.

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.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Machine operator trainee positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training and certifications such as OSHA safety courses are provided. However, having basic skills in equipment operation, mechanical aptitude, and a valid driver's license can improve chances of employment; some employers may prefer candidates with related skills or certifications. Entry-level roles typically focus on training new operators to safely and effectively handle heavy machinery.

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 Massachusetts? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Machine Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Massachusetts as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,311 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
CDL Route Driver

CDL Route Driver

Clean Harbors

Salisbury, MA • On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Clean Harbors rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 75 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Safety-Kleen in Salisbury, MA seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B Trainee). This role will train to drive a Class B box truck to provide onsite service for parts washer machines, pick up containerized hazardous waste, and sell products/services in a defined route. 
 
Safety-Kleen, a subsidiary of Clean Harbors is the leading provider of environmental, energy and industrial services throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.  Everywhere industry meets environment, Clean Harbors is on-site, providing premier environmental, energy and industrial services. We are solving tough problems through innovation and proven methodology – come be part of the solution with us.

Why work for Clean Harbors?
  • Health and Safety is our #1 priority and we live it 3-6-5!
  • Focus on maintaining sustainability and cleaning the Earth.
  • Recruiting Pay range: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour, BOE.
  • Comprehensive health benefits coverage after 30 days of full-time employment including 401K with Company match.
  • Own part of the company with our Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
  • Opportunities for growth and development for all the stages of your career.
  • Company paid training and tuition reimbursement.

Responsibilities:
  • Ensure Health and Safety is the number one priority by complying with all safe work practices, policies, and processes and always acting in a safe manner.
  • Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and pickups in a timely manner.
  • Switch out 15- & 30-gallon drums of solutions at customer locations.
  • Completes all required documentation and labeling.
  • Generates / collects leads from customers for new products and services.
  • Sells additional products and services into existing accounts.
  • Follow all local, state (provincial) and federal compliance regulations and rules.
  • Safely operate vehicles in accordance with U.S. DOT, local, state (provincial) and federal requirements.
  • Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures.
  • Observe all company environmental health and safety operating guidelines.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Obtain a CDL B within 180 days of employment (company paid).
  • Obtain Hazmat and Tanker endorsement within 30 days of CDL B.
  • Ability to work independently while managing time and productivity.
  • Basic computer and math skills.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Problem solving skills.
  • Perform physical functions per job requirements.
  • Successfully complete a background check, drug test, and physical, by position.
 
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Strong customer service skills.
  • Commercial route driving experience (Class C or non-CDL).
 
Clean Harbors is an equal opportunity employer. 
 
Clean Harbors is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact ect@cleanharbors.com or 1-844-922-5547.
 
Clean Harbors is a Military & Veteran friendly company.
 
Please be advised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used to support certain stages of the recruitment process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making.
 
Clean Harbors is committed to complying with applicable pay transparency laws and ensuring fair and equitable compensation. The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum target for this role. Final compensation may vary based on factors such as location, experience, skills, and business needs. In addition to the base salary, some roles may be eligible for bonus or incentive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

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About Clean Harbors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Clean Harbors is North America’s leading provider of environmental and industrial services. The Company serves a diverse customer base, including a majority of Fortune 500 companies. Its customer base spans a number of industries, including chemical, and manufacturing, as well as numerous government agencies. These customers rely on Clean Harbors to deliver a broad range of services such as end-to-end hazardous waste management, emergency spill response, industrial cleaning and maintenance, and recycling services. Through its Safety-Kleen subsidiary, Clean Harbors also is North America’s largest re-refiner and recycler of used oil and a leading provider of parts washers and environmental services to commercial, industrial and automotive customers. Founded in 1980 and based in Massachusetts, Clean Harbors operates throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Norwell, MA, US

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