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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Hillsboro, OR (NOW HIRING)

Trains Machine Operators I and II, and Machinist I as assigned. Qualifications Knowledge, Skills ... Demonstrated ability to manage time and resources effectively for self, peers, and trainees.

EPG Technical Trainer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$35.50 - $47/hr

... machinery and associated equipment ... Administers written and practical exams and writes performance reports to evaluate trainees ...

Machine Operator Trainee information

See Hillsboro, OR salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Hillsboro, OR is $19.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $21.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Machine Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

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.

How to get started as a machine operator?

To start as a machine operator trainee, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and gain basic technical skills. Completing on-the-job training or technical courses related to machinery operation and safety certifications can improve employment prospects. Familiarity with tools, safety procedures, and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Some high-paying jobs for machine operator trainees or experienced machine operators can reach $700 a day, especially in specialized industries like manufacturing, construction, or oil and gas. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, or working in remote or high-demand environments, and may involve overtime or shift work to achieve such earnings.

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.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Machine operator trainee positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training and certifications such as OSHA safety courses are provided. However, having basic skills in equipment operation, mechanical aptitude, and a valid driver's license can improve chances of employment; some employers may prefer candidates with related skills or certifications. Entry-level roles typically focus on training new operators to safely and effectively handle heavy machinery.

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.
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Hillsboro, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,196 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Machine Operator - Die Cast Trainee - 2nd Shift

Astronics

Clackamas, OR • On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Astronics rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Astronics-PECO, located in Clackamas, Oregon, designs and manufactures highly engineered commercial aerospace interior components and systems for the aerospace industry. We specialize in Passenger Service Units (PSUs) which incorporate air handling, emergency oxygen, electrical power management and cabin lighting systems. We also manufacture a wide range of fuel tank access doors that meet stringent strength, fuel sealing and anti-corrosion requirements.We are looking for a Die Cast Operator to join our team

This role will be required to cast quality parts using high pressure die casting machines. The shift for this role is Monday-Friday from 3pm to 11:30pm. Duties and Responsibilities: Setup casting machines (Idra, LK) Service casting machines by refilling metal, oils, and spray lubes.

Operate secondary equipment, drill press; trim press and milling machines. Operate and maintain casting machine to make quality parts. Observes quality.

Reports all part or die or machine problems promptly to lead person Maintain process control with furnace temperature, machine fluids and spray ratio Complete paperwork documenting accurate counts of all parts. Use measuring tools such as micrometers and calipers Attends Quality Manual Standards Training and applies Quality Standards accordingly Observes safety and security procedures; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly Operate a variety of forklifts and other material moving equipment and tools Sweep and clean work area and casting machines Reports consistently to work and is on time. Able to work an eight-hour shift and over time as needed Desired Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: High school diploma or equivalent, preferred Previous die casting experience and/or training, preferred Experience working with machines, tools and heavy equipment Mechanical aptitude Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of situations where standardization exists.

Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form Ability to perform basic math computations such as add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals Physical Demands and Work Environment: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is continually required to stand and walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk and hear. The employee will occasionally climb or balance

The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The employee must have the ability to detect odors by smell. Specific vision abilities required by this job include natural or corrected near vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and vibration

The employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles, extreme heat and electrical shock. The noise level is usually loud. Proper footwear, clothing, safety glasses and hearing protection are required.

Employment Eligibility Requirements: This position may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws. Employment is contingent upon the employee's authorization to access such items under applicable law

The company does not guarantee and is under no obligation to seek such authorization if it would be necessary. An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a pre-employment background and drug screening (including cannabis). Applicants who do not successfully pass both the drug and background screenings will not be considered for employment.

Accommodation Requests: Astronics PECO is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please e-mail Peco.humanresources@astronics.com or call: 503-387-6045. We will make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis

Astronics-PECO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status. .


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