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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs in Westwood, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Checks all alarms in order to ensure that they are set and properly operating. 3. Initiates usage ... machines after use: sterilizes machinery as required; samples water and bath solutions for ...

... operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals • Ability to write routine reports ... The noise level in this location is moderate (use of computers, printers and machines). Activity ...

... trainees against established training objectives. • Recommend additional training or skill ... operating machinery, and handling GMPs and product specifications • Ability to read, analyze, and ...

... trainees against established training objectives. • Recommend additional training or skill ... operating machinery, and handling GMPs and product specifications • Ability to read, analyze, and ...

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Machine Operator Trainee information

See Westwood, NJ salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in Westwood, NJ is $19.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $20.82 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 Westwood, NJ?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs in Westwood, NJ are:

What cities near Westwood, NJ are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Westwood, NJ with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in Westwood, NJ as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,483 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

CNC Operator Trainee - 2nd shift

Mahwah, NJ • On-site


Envista

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job Description:
PURPOSE -
Produces individualized dental prosthetic products while conforming to the company's culture established by our CIRCLe values, taking personal responsibility for actions and treating fellow employees, customers and vendors respectfully and ethically.
Operational responsibility for the equipment covering milling and/or additive manufacturing, finishing and detailing of restorative dental products, with the support of more experienced operators. This includes machine operation and cleaning, handling secondary equipment and related processes such as: "in-process" inspection utilizing manual and automated inspection equipment along with visual inspection using a microscope, batching and mixing of ceramic materials, and set up/preset tools when required.
ACCOUNTABILITIES -
  • Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Standard Work (SW) to produce restorative dental products while maintaining machines at maximum production levels and adhering to safety standards
  • Install and adjust milling tools and change operation to different products according to defined Standard Operation Procedures (SOP)
  • Observe machine operation to verify accuracy of machine settings and to detect malfunctions
  • Inspect tools for wear, damage, or defects and replace or escalate issues as needed to maintain quality and operational efficiency
  • Inspect and test work pieces throughout the production run. Perform visual and functional in-process Quality Control (QC) inspections in accordance with Quality and Product Specifications/Requirements. Utilizes various inspection equipment such as hand measuring tools and Zeiss Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM). Report results to more senior CNC operators/Quality Assurance, as needed
  • Carry out daily, weekly, and monthly Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) tasks in line with established procedures to help keep equipment in reliable operating condition; Escalates issues to next level of responsibility.
  • Operate all secondary equipment as required within product line or manufacturing cell (Parts washer, microscope, batch ovens, Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), rotary tools, micrometer, press and mixer, etc.)
  • Meets daily production objectives and on time delivery by completing tasks and inspections
  • Manage time effectively to keep machines operating at capacity
  • Maintains safety policies and procedures, including 5S initiatives, housekeeping, and adherence to mandated PPE requirements, including safety glasses and safety shoes
  • Assists with identifying safety hazards in the workplace and correct/remove or escalate to next level of responsibility for correction
  • Trains across multiple production lines and work cells in a dynamic, cross-functional environment, with ability to rotate into assigned areas upon completion of cross-training
  • Attend and participate in Daily Management / Safety Committees / Training as required
  • Other duties as assigned

Job Requirements:
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
Critical Knowledge and Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • GED, High School diploma, or equivalent work experience
  • Reliable and punctual, with the ability to work assigned shifts based on production and business needs
  • Willingness to work overtime and company-observed holidays, as required to support business needs

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Coursework, certification, or training on CNC programing and/or CAD/CAM, preferred
  • Familiarity with basic CNC programing concepts and code, preferred
  • General knowledge of machining tools and accessories, including tool holders, cutting tools, boring bars, fixtures, and inserts, preferred
  • Awareness of workplace safety practices and hazardous material regulations (OSHA), preferred

Critical Skills/technical know-how:
CRITICAL SKILLS REQUIRED UPON HIRE
  • Intermediate computer skills with PC standard software including MS Office and internet-based applications, required
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, including reading, writing, and verbal communication, required
  • Ability to follow written work instructions, safety procedures, and quality standards, required
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality, required
  • Understanding of blueprint reading/ geometric tolerance interpretation, a plus

CRITICAL SKILLS DEVELOPED THROUGH TRAINING
  • Ability to learn basic CNC programming concepts, machine operations, and tooling requirements as applicable to the role.
  • Ability to learn and safely operate production machinery and equipment to perform daily job responsibilities following training.
  • Ability to learn how to identify defective, worn, or damaged tools and take appropriate action in accordance with established procedures following training.
  • Ability to learn and independently load, unload, stock, and replace tools while adhering to quality and safety standards following training.
  • Ability to operate and monitor multiple machines simultaneously, demonstrating strong multitasking, prioritization, and attention-to-detail skills.

Critical Experience:
  • Candidates with transferable skills, related technical experience, or demonstrated mechanical aptitude, along with the ability to learn, adapt, and apply new skills, are encouraged to apply. Training will be provided for the right candidate.
  • 1-2 years of experience in a high-precision manufacturing environment, such as die making, pharmaceutical production, medical device, aerospace, or automotive industries, preferred.

Physical Demands:
  • 20/20 vision with or without aid
  • Ability to lift 25 pounds
  • Must be able to sit, stand, walk, bend and reach for 8 hours during work time
  • Must be able to see through and operate a microscope
COMPETENCIES
  • Customer Focus
  • Communicates Effectively
  • Collaboration
  • Nimble Learning
  • Demonstrates Self Awareness
CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS AND KEY CHALLENGES
  • Related experience is preferred; however, candidates with transferable skills and a strong ability to learn and adapt are encouraged to apply.

#LI-TP1
IND123
Target Market Salary Range:
Actual compensation packages take into account a wide range of factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to geographic location; skill sets; relevant education and certifications; depth of experience; performance; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed reasonable estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Envista, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. The total compensation package for this position may also include an annual performance bonus, medical/dental/vision benefits, 401K match, and/or other applicable compensation plans.
$20.80 - $25.50 per hour
Operating Company:
Nobel Biocare
Envista and all Envista Companies are equal opportunity employers that evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other characteristics protected by law. The "EEO is the Law" poster is available at: http://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/ compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf.
Envista and its family of companies (Envista) will not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. Envista will consider unsolicited referrals and/or resumes submitted by vendors such as search firms, staffing agencies, professional recruiters, fee-based referral services and recruiting agencies (Agency) to have been referred by the Agency free of charge and Envista will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt such unsolicited resumes. An Agency must obtain advance written approval from Envista's internal Talent Acquisition or Human Resources team to submit resumes, and then only in conjunction with a valid fully-executed contract approved by the Global Talent Acquisition leader and in response to a specific job opening. Envista will not pay a fee to any Agency that does not have such agreement and written approval in place.

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