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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Graham, WA (NOW HIRING)

RTCA

Manufacturing Trainee

Fife, WA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

S. Centers of Excellence operating as an integrated platform with 150+ CNC machines and a team of ... Discretionary bonus programs based on position and company performance Manufacturing Trainee ...

RTCA

CNC Swiss Operator - Weekend Shift

Fife, WA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Exposure to Swiss machining (Citizen, Star, Tsugami, or similar), even at a basic or trainee level ... Experience with operating, setting up and/or programming Swiss-type CNC lathes (Citizen, Star ...

Whole Foods Market

Butcher

University Place, WA · On-site

$18.50 - $30.20/hr

Mentors and supports assigned Meat Cutter Trainee(s). * Arrives to work station on time ... machinery. Note : The purpose of this document is to provide a general summary of essential ...

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Trainee JobsMachine Operator Trainee Jobs in Graham, WA

Machine Operator Trainee information

See Graham, WA salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Graham, WA is $17.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.09 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 Graham, WA are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Graham, WA with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:

Machine Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Graham, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,038 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Machine Operator (Adjuster Trainee - Manufacturing)

Cenveo Manufacturing

Kent, WA • On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Cenveo rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Information about the Company: Cenveo is a leading North American manufacturer of envelopes with over 100 years of experience and approximately 30 billion envelopes manufactured annually.


We are hiring immediately for experienced Machine Operators (Machine Adjuster Trainees) in our Kent, WA manufacturing plant for 2nd & 3rd shifts.


**Note: The Trainee position is a developmental position that requires the individual to be successfully progressing to a Machine Adjuster position by successfully completing the training The individual’s performance will be evaluated to determine progress in and suitability for the role.


Machine Operator (Machine Adjuster Trainee) Pay/Schedule:

  • Starting at $21/hr or higher depending on experience + shift premium
  • 2nd shift premium $0.75/hr / 2:30pm - 10:30pm
  • 3rd shift premium $1.50/hr / 10:30pm - 6:30am
  • Training usually takes place on 1st shift (6:30 am - 2:30pm)
  • Schedule: Mon - Fri / Sat required during busy season/based on business needs.


Machine Operator (Machine Adjuster Trainee) Responsibilities & Daily Duties:

  • Basic understanding and ability to operate an envelope machine
  • Basic understanding and ability to make print changes
  • Basic understanding and ability to window changes
  • Basic understanding and ability to make a full change
  • Remove/install parts; Time parts of machine to produce correct sized envelope
  • Overtime as needed; Compliance with safety rules and regulations.
  • Maintains clean machine and work area (sweeps, removes waste, etc).
  • Other duties and assignments as required.


Machine Operator (Machine Adjuster Trainee) Requirements/Qualifications:

  • 3-4 years of relevant mechanical experience
  • Intermediate-Advanced ability to set up, troubleshoot; repair machines; problem-solve
  • Basic math skills and the ability to accurately read a ruler; basic computer skills.
  • Flexibility required with machine assignment.


Machine Operator (Machine Adjuster Trainee) Physical Requirements & Work Environment:-

  • Regular standing, walking, carrying, climbing, reaching, bending, stooping.
  • Frequently required to lift and/or move up to 55 pounds with assistance.
  • Exposure to production equipment, noise, hazardous materials (inks, solvents, glue, etc.).
  • Must be able to work in hot or cold weather; Mental alertness to stop equipment.
  • .Ability to handle high-speed delivery output in a standing position for a full shift.


Cenveo is an EEO Employer

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