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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Lithia Springs, GA

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Machine Operator - Tooling Technician 2nd Shift Marietta, GA Pay: $19.50 /hour Hours: Monday- Thursday, 1 p.m. - 11 p.m. Running a Band Saw - Cutting Blocks Lifting 50+ pounds Hand Tool Experience ...

Machine Operator Trainee information

See Lithia Springs, GA salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Lithia Springs, GA is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $17.93 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 are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs in Lithia Springs, GA? The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Lithia Springs, GA are:
What cities near Lithia Springs, GA are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Lithia Springs, GA with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Lithia Springs, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,875 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Plant Operator Trainee (Water Reclamation)

Clayton County Water Authority

Jonesboro, GA

$24.65 - $38.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position: Plant Operator Trainee (Water Reclamation)

Department: Water Reclamation

PAYGRADE: 105 NE

Pay: Min: $24.65 Mid: $31.42 Max: $38.20

DEADLINE: August 11, 2026

JOB SUMMARY

The purpose of this entry-level position is to perform (under close supervision) a variety of
skilled and semi-skilled technical and maintenance work in the operation, maintenance, and
repair of the wastewater treatment or water production facilities and systems in compliance
with established environmental guidelines; to learn how to monitor and analyze operating and
processing conditions; and to take action to modify process control or equipment operation to
maintain compliance with applicable local, state, and federal environmental rules and
regulations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Attends on-the-job and other training sessions to gain skills and knowledge regarding
plant operations, job performance, and policies, procedures, rules, and regulations;
reads training materials; completes tests and skills assessments; and obtains and
maintains required certifications.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding monitoring plant equipment; assists with
inspecting operating equipment and observing the plant’s Supervisory Control and
Data Acquisition (SCADA) system; assists with adjusting controls and processes, as
necessary, for optimum performance; and assists with ensuring all plant equipment is
maintained in accordance with the O&M manuals.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding collecting and analyzing wastewater, water
treatment and bio-solids samples, treated effluent, sludge, and surface water; assists
with analyzing and evaluating data and making process changes as needed; records
lab results; and updates computer database.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding monitoring and maintaining all treatment
processes within the treatment process chain including includes pump stations,
clarification processes, physical processes, biological processes, chemical feed
processes, solids processing processes, and related equipment, etc.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding monitoring and maintaining the remote transfer
pump station, raw pump station, and storage tanks.
• Gains skills and knowledge regarding collecting, compiling, and reviewing
environmental and operational data; assists with preparing and interpreting data used
for daily process control and regulatory reports; and records and archives statistical
data concerning plant operations and plant performance.
• Operates or uses various equipment, power tools, hand tools, and supplies in order to
complete work assignments; operates and maintains SCADA system, aeration
blowers, various pumps and motors, bar screens, grit chambers, clarifiers, odor control
systems, chemical feed systems, forklift, and other tools and equipment.
• Performs other assigned duties.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK

• High school diploma or equivalent; no experience required although some work
experience that shows an ability to maintain steady employment in any field is desired;
or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides
the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
• Must be able to demonstrate proficiency in performance of the essential functions and
learn, comprehend, and apply all CCWA or departmental policies, practices, and
procedures necessary to function effectively in the position.


Required Licenses/Certifications

• Must possess and maintain a valid Georgia driver’s license.
• Must possess and maintain a Georgia Class III Wastewater Operator III License required within 12 months of hire.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• This position classifies the physical exertion requirements as medium work involving
lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects
weighing up to 15 pounds or more.
• Tasks typically involve some combination of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling,
crouching, crawling, and prolonged standing;

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Performance of essential functions may require exposure to adverse environmental
conditions, such as dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, rain, fumes,
temperature, noise extremes, hazardous materials, fire, unsafe structures, heights,
confined spaces, machinery, vibrations, electric currents, bright/dim lights, toxic
agents, disease, pathogenic substances, or rude/irate customers.
• Work is performed in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity to change and
responsiveness to changing goals, priorities, and needs.

At CCWA, it is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees, including temporary employees, and applicants for employment based on qualifications, abilities, and merit. Therefore, CCWA prohibits discrimination against employees, applicants or any other legally covered persons because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity or expression), citizenship, genetic information, disability status, past, current, or prospective membership in the uniformed services or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to job advertisements, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, benefits, and training.