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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Operator Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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?

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 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 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 become a machine operator trainee with no experience?

To become a machine operator trainee with no experience, focus on gaining basic technical skills through vocational training or community college courses, and highlight your willingness to learn and work in a manufacturing environment. Some employers offer on-the-job training for entry-level candidates, so applying to companies that provide training programs can also be effective.

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 technical skills. Employers often provide on-the-job training, but having familiarity with machinery, safety protocols, and the ability to follow instructions can be beneficial. Some positions may require certifications in equipment operation or safety standards.

What do machine operator trainees do?

Machine operator trainees learn to operate and monitor manufacturing equipment, such as presses, lathes, or conveyor systems. They gain skills in safety procedures, quality control, and troubleshooting under supervision to prepare for full-time roles as 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:

Machine Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,502 per year, or $18 per hour.

Production trainee - Manufacturing - Carpentry

84 Lumber Company

Powhatan, VA • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 21 hours ago

84 Lumber rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 137 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 13 rated diy builders merchants

Job description

Overview
An entry-level truss builder is responsible for assembling wood trusses and frame walls used in residential and commercial construction. This role involves reading blueprints, measuring and cutting materials, and using hand and power tools to construct trusses according to specifications. No prior experience needed.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assemble roof and floor trusses using pre-cut lumber and metal connector plates
  • Read and interpret blueprints or work orders
  • Operate saws, nail guns, and other hand/power tools safely
  • Ensure trusses meet quality control standards
  • Work in a fast-paced production environment to meet daily quotas
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area
  • Follow safety protocols and wear appropriate PPE

Skills & Qualifications:
  • No prior experience required (on-the-job training provided)
  • Ability to read a tape measure and perform basic math calculations
  • Comfortable working in a physically demanding environment (lifting 50+ lbs, standing for long periods)
  • Team player with good communication skills
  • Willingness to learn and adapt to production requirements

Work Environment:
  • Indoor manufacturing facility
  • Exposure to loud noises, sawdust, and varying temperatures
  • Fast-paced, repetitive tasks with strict deadlines

Career Growth:
  • Opportunities to advance to Lead Builder, Machine Operator, or Truss Designer roles
  • Potential for pay increases and additional training.

Schedule:
  • First shift: 6:00 am to 2:30 pm - Monday through Friday
  • Second shift: 4:00 pm to 2:30 am - Monday through Thursday

Pay: $18.00/hr
Benefits - Full benefits after 60 consecutive days of employment.
  • Health, vision, dental and term-life insurance
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Associate Profit Sharing
  • Monthly incentives up to $705
  • And, much more!

Responsibilities
Inserting or positioning materials, clamping, splicing, fitting parts by hand and with power tools, and verifying dimensions of cut material by following supervisor's instructions, blueprint specifications, and the cut sheet layout.
Using a hammer to place metal reinforcement plates over connecting joints.
Quality control of assembled items, proposing process improvements when applicable to increase efficiency.
Following prioritized production list assigned by Assembler Lead and using assigned press stations to place and press plates on appropriate lumber.
Fulfilling daily machine and area cleanup procedures.
Qualifications
Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence and memos; write simple correspondence; effectively present information to others one-on-one
Ability to read and understand simple diagrams, blueprints, and a tape measure
Ability to work 10-12 hours shifts and lift up to 80 pounds
High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
84 Lumber Company is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. 84 Lumber Company 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 to participate in the job application or interview process, contact recruiting@84lumber.com.

What 84 Lumber employees say

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About 84 Lumber

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

84 Lumber Company is the nation’s leading privately held supplier of building materials, building supplies, manufactured components and industry-leading services for single- and multi-family residences and commercial buildings. 84 Lumber is proud to offer brand name, quality building supplies to building professionals, commercial contractors, home builders, remodelers, developers, and do-it-yourselfers.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Eighty Four, PA, US

Year founded

1956

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