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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Sturgis, MI (NOW HIRING)

Bayer

Seed Technician - Constantine, MI

Constantine, MI · On-site

$27.03 - $33.85/hr

Provide coaching and training to seasonal workforce, area trainees and peers supporting achievement ... floor/machine safety and operating procedures;) * Comply with internal procedures and support ...

All JobsMachine Operator JobsMachine Operator Trainee JobsMachine Operator Trainee Jobs in Sturgis, MI

Machine Operator Trainee information

See Sturgis, MI salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Sturgis, MI is $16.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $17.98 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 Sturgis, MI are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Sturgis, MI with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:
Machine Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Sturgis, MI as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,934 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Seed Technician - Constantine, MI

Bayer

Constantine, MI • On-site

$27.03 - $33.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Bayer rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 86 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

At Bayer we're visionaries, driven to solve the world's toughest challenges and striving for a world where 'Health for all Hunger for none' is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We're doing it with energy, curiosity and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities and redefining 'impossible'. There are so many reasons to join us. If you're hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there's only one choice.
Seed Technician - Constantine, MI
Seed Technician (Constantine, MI)
YOUR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The primary responsibilities of this role, Seed Technician (Constantine, MI) are:
  • Operate equipment in the production sites and leverage real time data to maximize existing procedures;
  • Perform preventive maintenance and inspections; troubleshooting problems associated with equipment, processes, and systems as needed;
  • Support areas across the plant in driving the adoption of continuous improvement practices and programs (5S, Lean, Six Sigma) conducive to an organized and clean work environment;
  • Utilize Focused Improvement (e.g., 5WHYs) techniques to initiate process and standard work improvements;
  • Provide coaching and training to seasonal workforce, area trainees and peers supporting achievement and personal development;
  • Ensure upstream activities (e.g., field inspection, grower contract) are handled within company standards and business requirements;
  • Cultivate partnership with key business partners to plant / field operations (e.g., grower network;)
  • Use SAP to support administrative procedures, documenting key readings, maintenance orders and production information;
  • Maintain key process documentation (operating, start-up, and shut-down procedures; standard work; process flow and instrumentation diagrams; etc.)
  • Demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to Bayer's Health, Safety, Environment (HSE) and Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) standards (e.g., general shop floor/machine safety and operating procedures;)
  • Comply with internal procedures and support compliance with legal requirements applicable to area activities;
  • Participate and prepare to lead Daily Direction Setting (DDS) meetings as needed; articulating shift objectives and allocating resources accordingly across all active production areas;
  • Support and maintain metrics and relevant information on current Visual Management boards to drive teamwork and facilitate shift change over.

Who We Are:
Bayer seeks an incumbent who possesses the following:
Required Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED;
  • Basic knowledge of IT (Internet, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, or facilities with systems;)
  • Valid Drivers' License. To be eligible to drive a company car, your driving record must meet guidelines based on the company's Risk Screening for Hiring Drivers - MVR will be reviewed as part of pre-employment screening;
  • Ability to lift a minimum of 60 lbs. (a bag of seed;)
  • Ability to workdays, nights, rotating shifts, weekends, and overtime as business needs require.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced education including Technical, Associate's, or bachelor's degree;
  • Intermediate computer skills with experience using of SAP and PLC;
  • Minimum three years manufacturing experience, with experience in chemical or row crop manufacturing;
  • Previous experience working in a manufacturing environment with a 24/7 rotating shift schedule, including overtime as needed.

Posting will be available until July 23, 2026
Employees can expect to be paid an hourly rate between $27.03 - $33.85. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant). Other benefits include health care, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, sick leave, etc. If selected for this role, the offer may vary based on market data/ranges, an applicant's skills and prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications, and other relevant factors.
YOUR APPLICATION
Bayer offers a wide variety of competitive compensation and benefits programs. If you meet the requirements of this unique opportunity, and want to impact our mission Health for all, Hunger for none, we encourage you to apply now. Be part of something bigger. Be you. Be Bayer.
To all recruitment agencies: Bayer does not accept unsolicited third party resumes.
Bayer is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans
Bayer is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its application process for individuals with disabilities and encourages applicants with disabilities to request any needed accommodation(s) using the contact information below.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Notice for U.S. Visitors: All information on this site is subject to compliance with local rule and regulations as they may vary from time to time and across different geographies, including, without limitation, U.S. Executive Orders. Bayer is an E-Verify Employer. Location:United States : Michigan : Constantine Division:Crop Science Reference Code:876485 Contact Us Email:hrop_usa@bayer.com

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About Bayer

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of healthcare and nutrition. We design our products and services to help people and planet thrive by supporting efforts to address the unprecedented global challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. At Bayer, we’re committed to drive sustainable development and generate a positive impact with our businesses. Through bold ideas and unprecedented insights, we’re pioneering new possibilities that advance life for all of us. That means reimagining how we care for ourselves and one another by empowering everyday health, improving approaches to patient care, and finding better ways to nourish our communities around the world.

Industry

Agriculture

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Whippany, NJ, US

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