ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Delaware, OH (NOW HIRING)

Westlake

Extruder Operator Trainee

Columbus, OH

$22.50/hr

Paid, structured, handson (up to 12 months) Do you enjoy working with machines? Fixing things ... Trainee Extrusion Operator * Stable manufacturing environment with long-term career opportunities ...

Ag-Pro

Diesel Technician

New Albany, OH · On-site

Mentors Service Technician Trainees and Service Technicians * Conducts or supports customer clinics ... Experience operating tools and equipment for diagnostic purposes * Experience with basic computer ...

Ag-Pro

Small Ag & Turf Mechanic

Hilliard, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Mentors Service Technician Trainees and Service Technicians * Conducts or supports customer clinics ... Experience operating tools and equipment for diagnostic purposes * Experience with basic computer ...

Ag-Pro

Technician

Hilliard, OH · On-site

... Service Technician Trainees and Service Technicians Conducts or supports customer clinics ... machines of the Technician's specialty Experience with the mechanical, electrical and hydraulic ...

Owens Corning

Maintenance Technician

Mount Vernon, OH

... machinery and equipment associated with plant operations * Performs the job of trainer for trainee ... Repair, replacement, or troubleshooting on or in PLCs (programmable logic controllers), operator ...

Owens Corning

Maintenance Technician

Mount Vernon, OH · On-site

... machinery and equipment associated with plant operations * Performs the job of trainer for trainee ... Repair, replacement, or troubleshooting on or in PLCs (programmable logic controllers), operator ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Trainee JobsMachine Operator Trainee Jobs in Delaware, OH

Machine Operator Trainee information

See Delaware, OH salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Delaware, OH is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $18.46 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 Delaware, OH?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Delaware, OH are:

What cities near Delaware, OH are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Delaware, OH with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:

Machine Operator Trainee jobs near you

Extruder Operator Trainee

Westlake

Columbus, OH

$22.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Westlake Chemical rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 101 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

Pay Structure:

Trainee: $22.50 per hour

For Experienced Extruder Operators: $24.00- $30.01 per hour, based on experience and demonstrated skill

Increases as you progress through training and qualification milestones
Night Shift Premium: +$2.00 per hour
Training: Paid, structured, handson (up to 12 months)

Do you enjoy working with machines? Fixing things? Working on vehicles, rebuilding engines, or figuring out how equipment works?

We are seeking mechanically inclined individuals to join our manufacturing team as Extruder Operator Trainees. No prior extrusion experience is required - we provide comprehensive training. What matters most is mechanical aptitude, a willingness to learn, and pride in producing quality work.

What You'll Learn & Do

With guidance from experienced operators, you will learn to safely operate and maintain extrusion equipment and progress into a full Extrusion Operator role.

You will learn how to:

  • Set up and tear down extrusion lines, including die installation and changeovers
  • Start-up equipment and produce quality finished products
  • Monitor machines, troubleshoot issues, and make adjustments
  • Use hand tools and measuring equipment (micrometers, fixtures, gauges)
  • Accurately track production, quality, and downtime
  • Maintain safety, housekeeping, and quality standards (VSI certification)
  • Work as part of a team and eventually help guide others

Qualifications

  • Mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience (work, shop, vehicles, or home projects)
  • Willingness to learn and grow into a skilled operator role
  • Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively
  • Attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Basic computer skills
  • Prior manufacturing or extrusion experience preferred, but not required

Pay, Growth & Stability

  • Competitive hourly pay based on experience
  • Paid training with experienced operators
  • Clear career progression: Trainee Extrusion Operator
  • Stable manufacturing environment with long-term career opportunities

Our compensation reflects market conditions across multiple U.S. locations and is based on experience, skill set, and job-related knowledge. Westlake Royal Building Products is a total compensation company offering competitive pay and a full benefits package.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here.You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.

What Westlake Chemical employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply