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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Incumbents may work on slippery/uneven surfaces, around machinery with moving parts, moving objects ... being operated. Required Certification/Licenses/Training: * Valid NYS Driver's license and the ...

Incumbents may work on slippery/uneven surfaces, around machinery with moving parts, moving objects ... being operated. Required Certification/Licenses/Training: * Valid NYS Driver's license and the ...

Terminal Operator

Linden, NJ · On-site

$33.50/hr

Summary: Under general supervision of Terminal Supervisor, the Terminal Operator Trainee is ... machinery, and require appropriate personal protective equipment * Frequent heavy lifting with and ...

Terminal Operator

Linden, NJ · On-site

$33.50/hr

Summary: Under general supervision of Terminal Supervisor, the Terminal Operator Trainee is ... machinery, and require appropriate personal protective equipment * Frequent heavy lifting with and ...

Supports Drill Operator and acts as chuck tender; handles rod wrench, greases drill steel, installs ... Learns operation of forklift, grout machine, typical rock anchor load testing, & micropile drill ...

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Machine Operator Trainee information

See New York salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in New York is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $21.30 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.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A machine operator trainee typically does not earn $10,000 a month without experience or specialized skills. High-paying roles that can reach this level often require advanced technical skills, certifications, or experience in fields like sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship. Most entry-level machine operator positions pay significantly less, and reaching such income levels generally involves career advancement or additional qualifications.

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 who learns to operate, monitor, and maintain industrial machines in a manufacturing or production environment. Under supervision, trainees are taught how to safely use machinery, follow production processes, inspect products for quality, and troubleshoot minor issues. This position is designed to provide hands-on training and practical experience, preparing individuals for more advanced machine operator roles. It often involves learning about safety protocols, equipment controls, and process documentation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in New York? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in New York with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in New York as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,384 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Plant Operator Trainee

Veolia

Wantagh, NY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country’s largest private water operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It offers a full spectrum of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. Veolia helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education and municipality customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Veolia has more than 10,000 employees working at more than 350 locations across North America.

Job Description

Position Purpose: 

Under the direction of the Operations Supervisor, Operations Lead Personnel and in coordination of fellow Operations Personnel the incumbent will perform a variety of basic tasks relevant to the day-to-day operation of the wastewater treatment plant facilities, processes and equipment, including process and equipment rounds, recording operations data and information, making observations and reporting on variations in operating conditions, maintaining logs and other required reports and forms, and provides input for corrective actions and implements corrective actions as directed. Assist Operations in efforts to maintain efficient and cost-effective facility operations while maintaining compliance with all Corporate and Regulatory environmental, health and safety rules and requirements.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Works a scheduled shift and will be subject to required emergency call in or shift coverage as Operational needs demand.
  • Under the direct Supervision of Shift Supervisor or Lead person may be required to perform some of the following tasks depending on the station assigned for that shift:
    • Record and Read meters for (pumps, gauges, motors etc.…) in accordance with all regulatory requirements.
    • Record tank levels, sludge blanket levels.
    • Operate equipment pertinent to assigned workstation (GBT, BFP, overhead lifting jib crane, pumps)
    • Open, close and adjust valves for tanks & pumps.
    • Observe their process areas (pumps, motors, valves, sewage color, odor, flow) record their findings.
    • Collect samples for laboratory analysis.
    • Receive chemicals in bulk, drum and tote form.
    • Adjust / bleed pumps as directed.
    • Keep the workstation and surrounding area safe and clear of debris.
    • Inspect equipment for proper functionality and refer to Maintenance for any necessary repairs.
    • Maintain a logbook for the station they are operating.
    • Create work requests for equipment found to be malfunctioning or broken.
    • Make adjustments to equipment to optimize the operation (GBT & Dewatering).
    • Troubleshoot operational issues and get approval of operations supervisor before executing.

Work Environment:

  • Work is performed both inside and outside with exposure to all kinds of weather conditions. 
  • Incumbents may be occasionally exposed to some noise, silica, dust, fumes, smoke, gases, greases, oils, electrical energy, solvents and vibration. 
  • Incumbents may work on slippery/uneven surfaces, around machinery with moving parts, moving objects/vehicles, ladder/scaffolding, below ground and may be exposed to water or other liquid materials.
  • Maintain a high level of focus on health, safety and environment, ensuring safety within all activities.
Qualifications

Education/Experience/Background: 

  • High School Diploma/GED is required.
  • Associate degree (or equivalent experience) in Environmental Science, Engineering, Biology/Laboratory or related fields preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

  • Requires good reading, math, writing, and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to read, and record data from meters, gauges, scales, panels, computer consoles, and other equipment.
  • Ability to understand/execute written and oral instructions, read/understand technical instructions.
  • Ability to interpret data and information from technical service manuals and drawings.
  • Knowledge of Windows, Google Workspace, MS Office Suite, and other computer-based systems.
  • Knowledge of basic laboratory sampling, testing and documentation.
  • Ability to adjust chemical feeds and processing equipment as directed to maintain compliance.
  • Basic knowledge of wastewater treatment equipment and processes.
  • Must have the ability to maintain effective working relations w/management, supervisors, and staff.
  • Must be able to work as a team in a teamwork-oriented environment.
  • Must be safety conscious and able to work independently with little or no supervision.
  • Must have a general understanding of how the treatment plant works and the SPDES limits associated to the station being operated.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training: 

  • Valid NYS Driver’s license and the ability to meet risk management guidelines.
  • Possesses valid NY State Class 1A Wastewater Treatment License is preferred or ability to attend classes required for obtaining valid NY State Wastewater Treatment license and obtain license within 24 months.

Additional Information

Pay Rate: $22.91 per hour.

Benefits: Our employees are covered by comprehensive benefits packages including paid time off policies; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; retirement plans, savings accounts; tuition reimbursement; paid volunteering and more.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.