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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in West Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Machine Operator Trainee is a strategic development role created to build a ready pool of skilled operators in advance of Service Wire's Culloden expansion project. Safety is a fundamental ...

The Machine Operator Trainee is a strategic development role created to build a ready pool of skilled operators in advance of Service Wire's Culloden expansion project. Safety is a fundamental ...

The Machine Operator Trainee is a strategic development role created to build a ready pool of skilled operators in advance of Service Wire's Culloden expansion project. Safety is a fundamental ...

Class B Trainee - CDL

Wheeling, WV · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

... machines, pick up containerized hazardous waste, and sell products/services in a defined route ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures. * Observe all company ...

Machine Operator Trainee information

See West Virginia salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in West Virginia is $14.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $15.10 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 West Virginia?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in West Virginia are:

What cities in West Virginia are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in West Virginia with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in West Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,284 per year, or $14.1 per hour.

Machine Operator Trainee

Service Wire

Culloden, WV

$15K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Service Wire rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Service Wire Company, a premier supplier of industrial and utility wire and cable, is currently seeking Machine Operator Trainees in Culloden, WV. If you are looking to join a great organization and a chance to become a part of our growing team, this may be the opportunity for you!
 
Position Summary:
The Machine Operator Trainee is a strategic development role created to build a ready pool of skilled operators in advance of Service Wire's Culloden expansion project. Safety is a fundamental requirement in all training and operational activities. Trainees will gain experience in equipment setup, machine operation, troubleshooting, wire quality monitoring, material handling, and production documentation while learning and applying all company safety standards. This role ensures a fully trained workforce ready for safe start-ups, rapid ramp-up, and sustained full-rate production.  
Tasks/Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements
  • Identify, report, and participate in corrective actions for unsafe conditions or practices
  • Actively rotate through all core operational areas assigned to you within a department.
  • Prepare and setup machine for production by positioning the payoff, feeder, and take-up
  • Operate machinery by adjusting and maintaining production controls according to specifications
  • Monitor the quality of wire during production and the finished product
  • Perform routine lubrication of machinery parts and minor preventative maintenance
  • Observe machine operation for equipment malfunction and report immediately
  • Record accurate and detailed daily production data
  • Maintain safety standards and clean work environment
  • Additional duties as assigned by supervisor
Knowledge/Skills/Requirements:
  • High School Diploma/GED (General Equivalency Diploma) or equivalent industrial experience (one year preferred)
  • Demonstrate strong basic math and measuring skills
  • Ability to read, comprehend, and respond to general instructions, direction, and correspondence, both oral and written
  • Cooperatively works and interacts with all company employees
  • Quick learner, adaptable, and versatile across multiple areas of operations
Position Requirements:
  • Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Ongoing participation in company safety training
  • Ability to obtain and maintain company forklift certification
  • Successful candidates will be expected to transition into operational roles via job bidding process as training is completed and opportunities arise through the expansion
  • Must be able to work in hot and cold environments without climate-control
  • In-person attendance is an essential function of the job
Physical Demands/Work Environment
  • Temperatures may be impacted by extreme outdoor weather in plant and warehouse
  • Regularly stands, bends, and reaches for extended periods
  • Regularly moves about the facility
  • Regularly lifts and moves materials up to 50 pounds
  • Regularly uses hand and finger dexterity to adjust and manipulate controls, tools, and objects
  • Occasionally required to move up to 100 pounds by pushing, pulling, or sliding material. Assistance provided as needed
  • Visual inspection of material quality required
  • Must be able to work in hot and cold environments without climate-control.
  • In-person attendance is an essential function of the job
Shift Schedule and Information
  • Must be available to work one of the following times:
    - 1st Shift - 6:30am - 3pm
    - 2nd Shift - 2:30pm - 11pm 
    - 3rd Shift - 10:30pm - 7am
The perks of joining our Team
  • Comprehensive Insurance Options - Competitive medical coverage with a variety of plan choices
  • Progressive PTO & Paid Holidays - Tenure-based paid time off plus eight paid holidays annually
  • Predictable, set schedules that support work-life balance - no rotating shifts
  • 401(k) with Company Match + Profit Sharing - Matching 5% on 6% of employee contributions and annual profitsharing contributions
  • Career Growth & Learning Support - Tuition reimbursement and employee assistance programs
  • Tuition reimbursement up to $15,000 - annually to support your continued education and career growth
  • Annual bonus potential up to $3,000 - through performance incentive programs
  • Referral Bonus Program - Employee referral bonuses paid out over the new hire's first year
  • See all benefits we offer here
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