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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Fort Myers, FL (NOW HIRING)

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Machine Operator Trainee information

See Fort Myers, FL salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Fort Myers, FL is $16.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 mechanical skills. Employers often provide on-the-job training, but having familiarity with tools, safety procedures, and the ability to follow instructions can be beneficial. Some positions may require certifications in safety or equipment operation.

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 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.

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 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 cities near Fort Myers, FL are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Fort Myers, FL with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Machine Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Fort Myers, FL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,306 per year, or $17 per hour.

Wastewater Operator Trainee

U.S. Water Services Corporation

Captiva, FL • On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

U.S. Water Services Corporation is a well-established and diverse water and wastewater utility organization specializing in utility maintenance, operations, engineering and construction services. U.S. Water is a fast paced and rapidly expanding company headquartered in New Port Richey, Florida with a staff of over 950 employees in twenty states.

Join the US Water team as a Wastewater Operator Trainee. US Water has a progressive program that allows you to become a licensed water or wastewater operator while working at one of our facilities. The program requires a four-year commitment from potential trainees. Trainees are expected to be licensed with the first two years of employment. There are multiple advancement opportunities exist for licensed operators throughout the company.

A Wastewater Operator Trainee will, under general supervision, assist in the daily operation and maintenance of the wastewater plant and perform related work as required.

ESSENTIAL

  • Assists in the daily operation and maintenance of the wastewater plant in compliance with established procedures and standards and federal and state laws and administrative regulations.
  • Assists with inspection and/or monitoring of pumps, charts, gauges and meters daily.
  • Assists with collection of wastewater samples and conducting lab tests; adjusts chemicals and/or equipment as necessary.
  • Adds chemicals in accordance with prescribed standards.
  • Assists with preparation and maintenance of accurate reports/records.
  • Assists with forwarding wastewater samples and reports as needed.
  • Assists with servicing and performing preventive maintenance program on plant and equipment; makes minor repairs and/or adjustments on plant and equipment; forwards requests for major repairs and/or equipment and tools to maintenance personnel.
  • Assists with maintaining adequate inventory of spare parts, chemicals, equipment and tools.
  • Assists with maintenance and cleaning of plant and and grounds.
  • Attends training programs to obtain license at each level after meeting experience requirements.
  • Assists in other departments/divisions as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Training and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must obtain state specific Water/Wastewater license within the prescribed period.

Knowledge:

  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn, wastewater plant operations.
  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn, federal, state laws and administrative regulations with reference to wastewater treatment.
  • Knowledge of functions, servicing and maintenance requirements of mechanical equipment and machinery.
  • Knowledge of and ability to comply with safety regulations and standards.

Abilities:

  • Ability to detect mechanical flaws and make minor repairs to plant and equipment.
  • Ability to collect samples and perform lab tests.
  • Ability to assist with maintaining preventive maintenance and servicing program on plant and equipment.
  • Ability to prepare and maintain accurate reports.
  • Ability to assist with maintaining the inventory of chemicals, spare parts, and tools.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, other employees, and the general public.
  • Physical ability to perform heavy labor for extended periods of time, often under adverse weather conditions.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical Demands of the Job: While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and vibration. The employee occasionally works in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and risk of electrical shock.

Special Licensing Requirements: Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

Certification Requirements: As a condition of continued employment, the employee must obtain Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators License issued by the state in which the work is performed.

Compensation and Benefits: Pay is commensurate with experience and market-reflective. US Water/USW Utility Group offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, paid time off, holiday pay and 401(k) with company match.

US Water/USW Utility Group offers competitive wages and benefits and is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

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