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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Bellville, TX (NOW HIRING)

Slitter Operator

Brenham, TX · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Will participate in trainee development needs/schedule decisions. * Must be able to take over ... The employee will operate machines that use liquid coolant and may also be exposed to cast iron ...

Tool and Die Technical Instructor

Waller, TX

$23.50 - $29.75/hr

... operating toolroom equipment; and designing/building jigs and fixtures. The position designs ... Facilitate the capstone project: lead trainees through design, fabrication, assembly, and testing ...

Tool and Die Technical Instructor

Waller, TX

$23.50 - $29.75/hr

... operating toolroom equipment; and designing/building jigs and fixtures. The position designs ... Facilitate the capstone project: lead trainees through design, fabrication, assembly, and testing ...

Tool and Die Technical Instructor

Waller, TX · On-site

$23.50 - $29.75/hr

... operating toolroom equipment; and designing/building jigs and fixtures. The position designs ... lead trainees through design, fabrication, assembly, and testing of a die/tool from blueprint ...

Machine Operator Trainee information

See Bellville, TX salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Bellville, TX is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $17.93 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 cities near Bellville, TX are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Bellville, TX with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Bellville, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,876 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

$15 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Valmont Industries rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

174th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

2551 Valmont Dr Brenham Texas 77833-5418

Why Valmont
 

We’re Here to Move the World Forward.

Valmont impacts millions of people around the world every day, yet they might not realize the many ways. Our technology is helping feed the growing population, supplying the world with more reliable energy and access to renewables, enhancing connectivity in remote and urban locations to create a sustainable future and so much more. Simply put, Valmont is advancing agricultural productivity and reimagining vital infrastructure to make life better.

Join a Fortune 1000 company that respects hard work, honors diversity and invests in our employees as we focus on creating the world of tomorrow, today. We are the modern workforce. Are you ready to move the world forward? Apply now.

Essential Functions

  • Responsible for offloading all incoming coil steel, conveying of raw material and finished materials
  • Requires set up calculations, equipment adjustment decisions, equipment maintenance determinations. 
  • Identifies which coils in inventory are available to be used to fill orders. 
  • Must recognize sub-standard material in the visual inspection process. 
  • Will participate in trainee development needs/schedule decisions. 
  • Must be able to take over scheduling operation of slitter when team lead is absent.
  • Operates crane, track-mobile, forklift and all equipment required for Slitter line operation
  • Must be familiar with proper mechanical functions of all equipment in the facility to promptly recognize any mechanical or electrical malfunction
  • Perform the maintenance activities required to properly maintain all related equipment as per the prescribed preventive maintenance program
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications of Every Candidate (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities)

  • 1 year previous experience running large manufacturing machinery
  • Working knowledge of cutting torch, tape measure, micrometer, feeler gauges, cranes, and arc welding
  • Previous experience in operating overhead cranes
  • Ability to read & write English
  • Perform basic math: add, subtract, decimals and fractions
  • Knowledge of basic shop tools and equipment
  • Must adhere to all safety requirements and safety practices
  • Must be knowledgeable with Microsoft Excel formulas and calculations to create Setup Sheets.

Highly Qualified Candidates Will Also Possess These Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED
  • 1 year previous experience working in a manufacturing or fabrication environment
  • The ability to accurately and honestly check one’s own work for quality assurance
  • Lean process knowledge. TPM, RCA, 5S, Value Stream, Standard Work
  • Must be a person of passion and integrity who has the drive to excel and deliver exceptional results

Working Environment and Physical Efforts:

This job is usually performed in an indoor shop environment. The temperature range can be from 105 degrees in the summer to about 40 degrees in the winter. There will likely be exposure to mill scale, lubricating fluids, occasionally smoke from cutting/welding operations Most operations may expose employee to some type of disagreeable working conditions (wind, cold, heat, dust, dirt, fumes, noise, vibration, water, or oil). Working conditions may vary with specific work assignments. Some outside work may be required to bring in railcar and check coils for inventory. This is a noisy environment with sound levels around 80 decibels. Safety glasses, earplugs, and metatarsal safety shoes are required at all times in the plant. The employee will operate machines that use liquid coolant and may also be exposed to cast iron dust as well as other steel particles. The employee must be able to spend the entire work shift within this warehouse environment normally standing or moving around the warehouse floor.

Incumbent will also be exposed to production facilities where specific PPE will be required such as hand, hearing, foot, eye, and head protection.  There will also be frequent exposure to outside elements for short periods of time.  Being outside will also expose them to material handling equipment such as forklifts, straddle trucks, and shag trucks. 

Benefits

Valmont offers employees and their families a comprehensive Total Wellbeing benefit package to ensure their individual and family’s overall wellness needs are met. Some offerings are dependent upon the role, work schedule, or location and can include the following:

  • Healthcare (medical, prescription drugs, dental and vision)

  • 401k retirement plan with company match

  • Paid time off

  • Employer paid life insurance

  • Employer paid short-term and long-term disability including maternity leave

  • Work Life Support

  • Tuition Reimbursement up to $5,250 per year

  • Voluntary programs like tobacco cessation, Type 2 diabetes reversal, one-on-one health coaching, mortgage services and more

Valmont does not discriminate against any employee or applicant in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

If you have a disability and require any assistance in filling out the application for employment email EEOCompliance@Valmont.com.


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