1

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Machine Operator Trainee information

See West Virginia salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 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, 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.

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 employment prospects. Familiarity with tools, safety procedures, and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Some high-paying jobs for machine operator trainees or experienced machine operators can reach $700 a day, especially in specialized industries like manufacturing, construction, or oil and gas. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, or working in remote or high-demand environments, and may involve overtime or shift work to achieve such earnings.

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.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Machine operator trainee positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training and certifications such as OSHA safety courses are provided. However, having basic skills in equipment operation, mechanical aptitude, and a valid driver's license can improve chances of employment; some employers may prefer candidates with related skills or certifications. Entry-level roles typically focus on training new operators to safely and effectively handle heavy machinery.

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 West Virginia? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in West Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in West Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,284 per year, or $14.1 per hour.
Machine Operator Trainee

Machine Operator Trainee

Service Wire

Culloden, WV

$15K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 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
  • Flexible schedule that could potentially include an alternate schedule through the expansion. This could include days, evenings, nights, or weekends as needed
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 profit‑sharing 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

What Service Wire employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom