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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Hamilton, ON (NOW HIRING)

City of Ottawa

Waste Collection Operator Trainee

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$26.98 - CA$31.57/hr

As a trainee, you will complete on-the-job training alongside a Waste Collection Operator (WCO) in ... a machine * Ability to work in a physical demanding environment, including the ability to lift up ...

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Machine Operator Trainee information

See Hamilton, ON salary details

$7

$14

$17

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Hamilton, ON is $14.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.85 and $15.89 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 Hamilton, ON?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Hamilton, ON are:

What cities near Hamilton, ON are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Hamilton, ON with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:

Machine Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Hamilton, ON as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,675 per year, or $14.3 per hour.

Waste Collection Operator Trainee

Ottawa, ON • On-site

City of Ottawa
See more jobs at City of Ottawaexternal

CA$26.98 - CA$31.57/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Requisition ID: 23416 
Department: Public Works Dept. 
Service: Solid Waste Services 
Employment Type: Multiple CasualPositions
Affiliation: CUPE 503 - In/Out/NS Sal & Wage 
Salary Information: $26.982 - $31.566 per hour (2024 rates of pay)
Location: 2799 Swansea Crescent 
Job Category: Labourer Jobs
Application Close: 31/12/2026

JOB SUMMARY

The Collections Operations Unit oversees residential waste collection programs and services, including garbage, recycling, organics, yard and leaf waste, for the city's designated collection zone, which currently serves 70,000 homes.

As a trainee, you will complete on-the-job training alongside a Waste Collection Operator (WCO) in order to learn the necessary skills to perform waste collection duties and responsibilities, safety and efficiently. Your duties and responsibilities (as outlined below) including operating vehicles and equipment and performing general labour in the collection and disposal of waste will gradually increase throughout the training and evaluation period.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of Grade 10

Less than 6 months of work experience operating heavy equipment and vehicles.

Recycling and refuse collection experience is an asset.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENCES
Valid Ontario unrestricted DZ class driver's licence (or provincial equivalent) with no more than 6 demerit points accumulated
KNOWLEDGE
  • Ontario Highway Traffic Act and related regulations involved in equipment operation
  • Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA)
  • Understanding of mechanical and hydraulic systems to safely operate heavy equipment
  • Hazards, precautions, and safe operating practices for operating heavy equipment and vehicles
  • Proper lifting techniques
  • WHMIS, First Aid and Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
  • Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers
COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Operation of heavy equipment 
  • Read and follow route maps, drawings, and street signs
  • Understand and follow written and oral instructions
  • Able to successfully complete a Post-Offer Employment Test 
  • Able to keep detailed, accurate records concerning materials received, processed, and disbursed as well as required equipment service records
  • Able to work collaboratively and take direction from staff while on assigned route
  • Understand and demonstrate safe working practices
  • Establish and maintain a good working relationship with management, other employees, and the public
  • Ability to communicate basic concepts to members of the public
  • Able to climb to and from the operator's position and possess the manual dexterity and coordination to use both hands and feet simultaneously to operate a machine
  • Ability to work in a physical demanding environment, including the ability to lift up to 75lbs
  • Use a high-pressure water hose to clean solid waste equipment
  • Work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the outdoor elements

Core Behaviours

Core behaviours define the City's expectations of the behaviours employees should demonstrate in performing their work.  They are reflective of the City's culture and values and guide all our present and future activities.  Every employee is encouraged to learn, embody and demonstrate these core behaviours.

Review the Core Behaviours.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

  • Language Requirement: English oral, reading, writing
  • Driver's License Requirement:  A valid Ontario unrestricted DZ class driver's license (or provincial equivalent) with no more than 6 demerit points accumulated.
  • You may initially be paid 85% of your starting rate of pay until you have completed 120 hours of work. Upon completion of 120 hours, you will be paid 95% of your starting rate of pay until you have completed 976 hours, in accordance with the collective agreement.
  • Experience and formal training combined with demonstrated performance and ability may substitute for stipulated academic requirements. 
  • Please save a copy of the job poster. Once the closing date has passed, it will no longer be available. 

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. 

The City of Ottawa promotes the principles of diversity and inclusion and adheres to the tenets of the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We encourage applications from members of Indigenous, Black and other racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women and non-binary persons, persons of all ethnic origins, religions, sexual orientations, classes, gender identities and expressions. 
Candidates are encouraged to self-identify as a member of one or more designated employment equity groups in the self-identification questionnaire.

The City of Ottawa provides accommodation to applicants during all parts of the hiring process, upon request. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.

 

Accessible formats and communication supports are available upon request. Please contact the Employee Service Centre at 613-580-2424 extension 12211 or via email at esc-cse@ottawa.ca.

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