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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Operator Trainee information

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$26

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Washington is $20.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $22.07 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 Washington?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,842 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Traveling Surveyor (Independence Excavating)

DiGeronimo Companies

Sterling, VA • On-site

$75K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Traveling Land Surveyor

Independence Excavating is looking to hire a full time Land Surveyor that will be responsible for preparing and reviewing data for field crews. The Surveyor will be preparing and approving cut sheets and as-builts on construction projects.

Who is IX?

From breaking ground to the finished project, our team has been laying the groundwork for excellence on heavy civil construction and demolition projects for over 65 years. We combine innovations of industry with decades of successfully completed projects, proving we are a value-added partner from the ground up! Over six decades, Independence Excavating has established a team of construction professionals that sets us apart from other contractors. To learn more, visit our website: https://www.indexc.com/

What do we believe in?

PEOPLE:

Provide a safe, family-oriented environment. Commitment to integrity. Protect our most valuable assets.

PERFORMANCE:

Always deliver the highest quality. Find solutions. Provide value to our partners.

COMMUNITY:

Positively impact the communities we serve. Give back. Leave the world a better place than we found it.

A typical day looks like:

  • Producing and verifying cut sheets
  • Overseeing and coordinating the initial layout at the job site and provides continuous monitoring of the same
  • Providing work control lines and elevations that are required for accurate measurement and correct installation of material by crafts, i.e.,
  • Providing checking of as-built conditions that require the use of surveying techniques
  • Providing topographic and cross-section surveys as required for planning and payment quantities
  • Supervising Surveying Technician and Surveying Trainee personnel
  • Regularly making important decisions on interpreting drawings and specifications and applying them to the physical layout at the job site.

Do you have what it takes?

  • Minimum HS Diploma. Additional training and/or related certificate preferred
  • Minimum five years of previous related experience
  • Comfort level with Trimble GPS equipment, Trimble machine control, Trimble total station setup, ect.
  • Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Ability to build surfaces for GPS equipment
  • Utilize and have a thorough understanding of surveying practices and equipment use
  • Must have good math skills
  • Must be able to verbally communicate instructions and plans well with all internal and external contacts
  • Must be able to effectively communicate rationale behind decisions made
  • Work must be performed carefully and with great accuracy
  • Must have a valid driver's license
  • This is a field and office position- willingness to work outside and in all weather conditions
  • Local travel to job sites required
  • Occasional overtime may be necessary during peak times

Why IX?

  • Weekly Competitive Pay!
  • Excellent Benefits:
    • Medical
    • Dental
    • Vision
    • FSA & HSA
    • Life Insurance + Optional Family Life Insurance
    • Short-term and Long-term Disability
    • Wellness Incentive Program
  • Paid Holidays and PTO
  • 401(k) + Company match
  • Paid corporate training program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Stability and a variety of different roles that provide a path to career advancement
  • Family-owned and operated since 1956

Independence Excavating, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we value workplace diversity and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local protected class.