1

Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... operating and maintaining major industrial equipment such as pumps, motors, valves, gear boxes ... industrial tools, machining tools, rigging, scaffolding, forklifts, coarse and precision ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Machine Operator Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Virginia is $18.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $19.33 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

Most standard machine operator trainee positions do not pay $2000 per day; such high daily earnings are typically associated with specialized roles like high-level consultants, executive contractors, or certain freelance professionals. Achieving this level of income usually requires extensive experience, advanced skills, certifications, or working in high-demand industries such as finance, consulting, or specialized technical fields.

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 job prospects. Practical experience and familiarity with tools and equipment are also valuable for entry into this role.

How to be a machine operator with no experience?

To become a machine operator trainee with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through online courses or vocational training programs. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so demonstrating reliability, attention to safety, and a willingness to learn can help you start in entry-level positions; obtaining relevant certifications like OSHA safety training can also improve your chances.

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 quality control, often requiring on-the-job training and sometimes certification. Trainees typically work in manufacturing environments and develop technical proficiency to become fully qualified machine operators.
What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,502 per year, or $18 per hour.
Dispatcher or Dispatcher Trainee

Dispatcher or Dispatcher Trainee

State of Virginia

Appomattox, VA • On-site

$50K/yr

Other

Posted yesterday


State Of Virginia rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 50 rated states


Job description

Dispatcher or Dispatcher Trainee

Apply now Job no: 5106658
Work type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Location: Appomattox, Virginia
Categories: Public Safety

Title: Dispatcher or Dispatcher Trainee DSP01176

State Role Title: Emergency Coordinator II

Hiring Range: Salary is Negotiable and Commensurate with Experience for Dispatchers. Dispatcher Trainees will start at $50,871.

Pay Band: 3 or 4

Agency: Department of State Police

Location: Appomattox, Virginia

Agency Website: vsp.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

Candidates with prior dispatching training and experience may be hired as a Dispatcher (Emergency Coordinator II), and the salary offered will be commensurate with experience.
Candidates with limited experience are hired as a Dispatcher Trainee (Emergency Coordinator I - pay-band 3, $50,871). After satisfactory completion of the Dispatcher Trainee Training Curriculum, employees will progress to a Dispatcher (Emergency Coordinator II - pay-band 4) and will receive a 10% salary increase.
Experienced candidates who are not placed in a trainee status are not eligible for the 10% salary increase.
About the Position:
The Virginia State Police (VSP) is seeking to hire a Dispatcher or Dispatcher Trainee at the Division III Headquarters in Appomattox, Virginia. The job duties for this position include but are not limited to:
Performing work within a specific geographical area by sending and receiving information and by sending emergency assistance or service equipment as required assisting law enforcement personnel or the public.
Aiding law enforcement personnel, emergency personnel, the public, and the media.
Operating a variety of equipment.
Maintaining various logs and records of activities.
Accessing information through several systems including Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD), Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN), National Crime Information Center (NCIC), National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS) and other databases.
May work rotating shifts and is considered essential personnel.
About the Agency:
At the Virginia State Police, we are more than just a law enforcement organization - we're a united team of problemsolvers, protectors, and public servants shaping the future of the Commonwealth. Every role here strengthens our mission to preserve life, protect the vulnerable, and enhance safety while upholding civil liberties throughout Virginia.
When you join VSP, your skills create real impact across every community we serve. Our culture is built on being selfless, engaged, and aware, and we succeed through timely, purposeful action; clear communication; personal accountability; and continuous improvement - together.
We prioritize the readiness and wellbeing of all our people, entrusting decisionmaking to those closest to the challenge and supporting one another with kind, direct feedback that helps us grow. At VSP, you will find meaningful work, real opportunities for advancement, and a supportive culture grounded in service, purpose, and the belief that we are One Mission. One Team. One VSP.
If you're ready to make a difference and be part of something larger than yourself, your next career starts here.

Minimum Qualifications

Knowledge:
Operating standard office equipment such as fax and copy machines.
Skills:
Operating computers.
Using Microsoft Office software applications.
Data entry.
Problem solving.
Customer service skills.
Abilities:
Effectively communicate with the public.
Work in a high pressure, high stress environment.
Exercise resourcefulness and sound judgement under stress and multitask.
Manage complaints/compliments, directing to appropriate supervision.
Enter/record information into automated systems and keep records and logs updated.
Communicate effectively orally and in writing in English.
Be flexible, work effectively independently and as a member of a team.
Work holidays, weekends and rotating shifts.
Successfully complete required training within six (6) months from hire.
Must be able to become Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) certified which requires either United States citizenship or a lawful permanent resident of the United States and eligible for naturalization.
May work rotating shifts and is considered essential personnel.
Graduation from high school or equivalent.

Additional Considerations

N/A

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Elements of the selection process include the screening of application(s); the interviewing of qualified candidate(s), to include pre-employment testing, a presentation and/or a work sample, if applicable; salary negotiation(s) if applicable; a background investigation; and a medical evaluation if applicable. The anticipated duration of the pre-employment process is determined by the successful completion of the above items.
Applications, cover letters and/or resumes shall only be accepted on-line through the PageUp recruitment management system at https://jobs.virginia.gov and must be received by 11:55 P. M. on June 25, 2026. Please limit resumes to four pages and cover letters to one page. Any additional attachments received in excess of this will not be considered.
PageUp provides confirmation of receipt of your application, resume and/or cover letter submitted successfully. Please refer to your PageUp account to check the status of your application for this position. For questions, please contact the Talent Acquisition & Employee Relations Section of the Human Resources Division at professionalemployment@vsp.virginia.gov.
It is the policy of the Department of State Police (the Department) that all aspects of human resource management be conducted without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists); sex; color; national origin; religion; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; age; veteran status; political affiliation; disability; genetic information; and pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
This policy shall be adhered to in all aspects of Departmental employment practices. It does not permit the lowering of bona fide job requirements, performance criteria, or qualifications to give preference to any state employee or applicant for state employment based on the above prohibitions.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 18 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: 25 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend

Whatsapp Facebook LinkedIn Email App

What State Of Virginia employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom