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Machine Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator Trainee

Bloomington, IN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Printpack Bloomington is looking for candidates to fill machine operator trainee positions in the Finishing Department. While manufacturing experience is helpful for this role, training is available ...

DESCRIPTION We are looking for reliable and motivated Machine Operators to join our production team. We currently have two openings for trainees interested in learning and supporting our growing ...

Machine Operator Trainee

Bloomington, IN · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Printpack Bloomington is looking for candidates to fill machine operator trainee positions in the Finishing Department. While manufacturing experience is helpful for this role, training is available ...

Howmet Aerospace is growing and is now looking to fill Machine Operator Trainee positions in our Winsted, CT location. Salary * Minimum starting salary $21.00 * Higher salary based on skills. * Shift ...

Howmet Aerospace is growing and is now looking to fill Machine Operator Trainee positions in our Winsted, CT location. Salary * Minimum starting salary $21.00 * Higher salary based on skills. * Shift ...

About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level position for candidates who is inclined to learn and become qualified Cold Header or Thread Roller ...

Machine Operator Trainee

Chester, SC · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Overview Carolina Poly, Inc. in Chester, SC, is currently seeking Machine Operators to join our team. Carolina Poly produces several lines of plastic products including high-quality trash bags and ...

Machine Operator Trainee

Chester, SC

$17 - $20.50/hr

Carolina Poly, Inc. in Chester, SC, is currently seeking Machine Operators to join our team. Carolina Poly produces several lines of plastic products including high-quality trash bags and ...

Machine Operator Trainee

Chester, SC

$17 - $20.50/hr

Overview Carolina Poly, Inc. in Chester, SC, is currently seeking Machine Operators to join our team. Carolina Poly produces several lines of plastic products including high-quality trash bags and ...

About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level position for candidates who is inclined to learn and become qualified Cold Header or Thread Roller ...

The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level position for candidates who is inclined to learn and become qualified Cold Header or Thread Roller Operators. Experienced header and roller ...

The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level position for candidates who is inclined to learn and become qualified Cold Header or Thread Roller Operators. Experienced header and roller ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Operator Trainee information

See salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do machine operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine operator trainee in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 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.
More about Machine Operator Trainee jobs

What cities are hiring for Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities with the most Machine Operator Trainee job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Machine Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Machine Operator Trainee jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Machine Operator Trainee jobs?

For Machine Operator Trainee jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Machine Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Machine Operator Trainee

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Printpack
IT Services • 1 - 5K employees

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago


Printpack rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Printpack Bloomington is looking for candidates to fill machine operator trainee positions in the Finishing Department. While manufacturing experience is helpful for this role, training is available for the right candidate.
This position is for a day shift 7AM-7PM Monday-Thursday schedule for a total of 48 hours per week.
Pay for this position starts at 19.00 per hour.
An ideal applicant is reliable and able to work with attention to detail and safety standards. Being a team player is essential since all tasks will require close collaboration with co-workers. Good attendance is a must.
Printpack offers a clean, safe, climate-controlled work environment and a competitive benefits package including:
• Medical/Dental/Vision Coverage
• Life Insurance
• Short/Long Term Disability
• 401(k) plan with employer contributions/match
• Employee Assistance Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Service Awards
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Parental Leave
Assistants support the operations of the Finishing Department including setup, operation, quality production, general adjustments of the equipment, housekeeping and safety inspections.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for general machine operation and adjustments while giving operator breaks
  • Stage material and ensure proper set up of bag machines
  • Perform routine safety inspections of equipment
  • Maintain housekeeping standards in the work area
  • Ensure product meets quality requirements
  • Rework quality issues as needed

Qualifications
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Stable work history
  • Ability to pass a drug screen and background check

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Must have the ability to accurately read a tape measure
  • Strong time management skills and ability to follow instructions
  • Must be able to demonstrate the ability to troubleshoot problems

Physical Demands
  • Lifting up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to climb, kneel, bend, squat
  • Must be able to grasp, push, pull and have fine motor skills
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time
  • Ability to wear PPE including but not limited to hearing protection, steel-toe shoes, safety glasses

Work Conditions
The majority of tasks will be performed in a manufacturing setting with exposure to:
  • Noise levels above 80 dB
  • Operation of complex machinery
  • Solvents, fumes and inks
  • Variable Temperatures

Printpack is proudly an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. Embracing diversity enhances our work culture and is vital to our success. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, genetic information, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, marital status, military or veteran status or affiliation, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.
To view your rights and government notices, please see the links below:
Know Your Rights - Conozca sus Derechos - Your Rights Under USERRA (dol.gov) - FMLA - FMLA (Spanish) - Polygraph Protection - Right to Work - Right to Work (Spanish)
Printpack is committed to helping individuals with disabilities participate in the workforce and ensure equal opportunity to compete for jobs. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist you with your application for employment or job search, please get in touch with us by sending an email to CorpRecruiting@Printpack.com. Please include in your email a brief description of the accommodation you are requesting and the position for which you are interested in applying.

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