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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Oklahoma (NOW HIRING)

Machinist

Ponca City, OK ยท On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Production Machine Shop Job Status: Full-Time FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-exempt Reports To: Manager ... Work environment includes exposure to hazardous materials, operating conditions, audio up to 85 dB ...

Machinist

Ponca City, OK ยท On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Production Machine Shop Job Status: Full-Time FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-exempt Reports To: Manager ... Work environment includes exposure to hazardous materials, operating conditions, audio up to 85 dB ...

Production Trainee - PM Shift

Tulsa, OK

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Position Summary The Production Trainee is responsible for carrying out all routine operations and operating equipment within the plant. Ownership * Safely operate all production machinery including ...

Production Trainee - PM Shift

Tulsa, OK

$14.25 - $17/hr

Position Summary The Production Trainee is responsible for carrying out all routine operations and operating equipment within the plant.Ownership Safely operate all production machinery including ...

Production Trainee - PM Shift

Tulsa, OK ยท On-site

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Position Summary The Production Trainee is responsible for carrying out all routine operations and operating equipment within the plant. Ownership * Safely operate all production machinery including ...

Maintains the machines and equipment in efficient operating condition, performs duties such as dismantling, moving, installing, commissioning, adjusting, or repairing machines, power shafting pulleys ...

Showing results 21-40

Machine Operator Trainee information

See Oklahoma salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Oklahoma is $16.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $17.98 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 Oklahoma? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Oklahoma are:
What cities in Oklahoma are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Oklahoma with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Oklahoma as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,927 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

$16 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

CNC Machinist
Job Description
Department: Production Machine Shop
Job Status: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-exempt
Reports To: Manager- Machine Shop
Location: Ponca City, OK
Amount of Travel Required: N/A
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 5:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Positions Supervised: N/A
POSITION SUMMARY: The Senior CNC Machinist performs detailed machine setups, G & M Code (CNC) editing, machine process improvement and troubleshooting, and produces machined parts to print.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (The following duties and responsibilities are all essential job functions, as defined by the ADA, except for those that begin with the word "may.")
  • Setup/teardown of machine tools quickly, accurately, and efficiently - load and/or unload jaws, fixtures and tooling as needed.
  • Work with CAM programming department to develop and improve CNC programs.
  • Aid in the design and fabrication of fixturing for parts of varying complexity
  • Advise supervisor and programming team of machine print and production issues to increase production.
  • Operate specific machine tools to produce close tolerance machined parts per engineering routing instructions.
  • Load and unload parts from machine.
  • Keep immediate area clean and orderly
  • Use measuring instruments, including calipers, micrometers, height gauges, depth gauges etc.
  • Maintain quality standards through understanding of the Quality System.
  • Perform other duties as required to assist with successful operations and business continuity.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
  • Successfully passes all applicable general pre-employment testing including but not limited to: background check, pre-employment drug screening, pre-employment fit tests, pre-employment aptitude and/or competency assessment(s).

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE LEVEL
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent certificate.
  • Post-secondary CNC education preferred.
  • Experience in a manufacturing environment not required, but highly desirable.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, COMPETENCIES, AND ABILITIES
  • Excellent speaking, writing and listening skills
  • High level of manual dexterity and good hand-eye coordination.
  • Ability to read blueprints.
  • Ability to edit programs.
  • Strong verbal communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Attention to detail and ability to deal with complexity.
  • Capable of working in a deadline-driven environment while maintaining a positive attitude.
  • Ability to read a measuring tape.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Daily required to walk, sit, climb, bend, reach and squat/kneel. Work environment includes exposure to hazardous materials, operating conditions, audio up to 85 dB and inclement weather, including typical and atypical outdoor elements and extreme cold and hot weather temperatures. Given these conditions employees are required to wear company mandated and issued personal protective equipment (PPE) (long-sleeve shirt/jeans, blasting hood, steel toe boots, safety glasses, ear protection, and blasting gloves) and must strictly adhere to all safety policies. Blasters are regularly required to lift heavy objects; therefore, the Weld Trainee must be able to lift 49 lbs. independently and 50 100 lbs. with a team lift.
Work hours may include or includes early morning, late evenings, and weekends, depending on business necessity.
AAP /EEO STATEMENT
The Company is committed to the cause of equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants, thus abiding by all applicable state and federal laws. Our practices regarding employment, job promotion, compensation, training, and termination do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, age, sex, national origin, veteran's status, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. It is expected that all employees, both management and staff, will fully support these nondiscriminatory policies.
The company has reviewed this job description to ensure essential functions and duties have been included. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities.
Last Revised 06/2026