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Mining Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Mining Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$26.3K

$44.8K

$65.4K

How much do mining trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for mining trainee in Chicago, IL is $44,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $52,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by mining trainees during their initial months on the job?

Mining Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, learning to operate heavy machinery safely, and understanding strict safety protocols. Adjusting to shift work and working in remote locations can also be an initial hurdle. However, structured training programs and mentorship from experienced miners help trainees build confidence and competence quickly. Open communication and a willingness to ask questions are key to overcoming these early challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mining trainee?

To thrive as a Mining Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mining operations, strong physical fitness, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with mining safety protocols, machinery operation, and sometimes certifications such as a White Card or First Aid are often required. Good communication, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills in this environment. These skills and qualifications ensure safety, productivity, and the ability to learn and advance within the mining industry.

What is a mining trainee?

Mining trainees are entry-level workers who are learning the skills and knowledge required to work in the mining industry. They typically participate in training programs or apprenticeships that combine classroom instruction with practical, hands-on experience at mine sites. Mining trainees may learn about equipment operation, safety protocols, and the day-to-day tasks involved in extracting minerals or resources. This role is designed to prepare individuals for more specialized positions within the mining sector. Successful trainees often progress to roles such as machine operators, technicians, or supervisors.

What is the difference between Mining Trainee vs Mining Operator?

AspectMining TraineeMining Operator
Required CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingCertifications, licenses, experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training-focusedOperational, hands-on
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level, training programsSkilled, operational roles

Mining Trainee positions are entry-level roles designed for individuals starting their careers, focusing on training and skill development. Mining Operators are experienced workers responsible for operating mining equipment and executing extraction tasks. While trainees learn on the job, operators perform the core operational duties in the mining industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mining jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Mining jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Mining Trainee jobs near you

Machining Trainee / Machining Finisher 1st & 2nd Shift Openings

Acme Industries

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Machinist Trainee / Machining Finisher - No Experience Required

$20/hour | Hire-On Bonus | Day 1 Benefits | Paid Training Toward a CNC Machinist Career | 1st & 2nd Shift (10% Differential for 2nd)

Start a trade. Not just a job.

Most $20 hour jobs are dead ends. This one is a starting line.

Acme Industries is hiring entry-level Machining Finishers who want to become CNC Machinists - one of the most in-demand, best-paying skilled trades in American manufacturing. No experience required. You bring the work ethic and the desire to learn; we provide paid, hands-on training led by our experienced machining team, with a clear path from finishing work to running CNC machines.

Since 1948, Acme has been a leading precision manufacturer serving aerospace, defense, power generation, mining, and transportation. We're growing - which means we're building our next generation of machinists from the ground up, starting with this role.

Your Career Path at Acme

Every machinist starts somewhere, and at Acme, this is where. Our development path takes you from finisher to skilled machinist through structured, paid, on-the-job training:

  • Machining Finisher (you are here): Learn how precision parts are made - deburring, polishing, grinding, and finishing components for aerospace and defense customers. Master blueprints, measurement tools, and shop fundamentals.
  • Machine Operator: Move onto the floor running production equipment under the guidance of experienced machinists.
  • CNC Machinist: Set up and run CNC machines producing high-value precision parts - a skilled trade with strong earning power for the rest of your career.

Pay increases are tied to the skills you demonstrate at each stage - the faster you learn, the faster you move. And with Tuition Assistance, we'll also help pay for machining coursework at local colleges if you want to accelerate.

What You'll Do (Starting Out)

This is real, hands-on manufacturing work - the same work every skilled machinist here started with:

  • Deburr and remove sharp edges from machined parts
  • Clean, polish, grind, buff, and finish production components
  • Perform final assembly, leak testing, and touch-up painting
  • Package parts to customer requirements
  • Follow written work instructions and quality standards
  • Maintain a clean, safe, organized work area

It's detailed, repetitive at times, and it matters: the parts you finish go into aircraft, defense systems, and power plants. Quality here is not optional - which is exactly why it's the right place to learn the trade.

What We're Looking For

  • No manufacturing experience required - we train. (If you do have shop or finishing experience, even better.)
  • Strong work ethic and reliable attendance - this is the #1 thing we hire for
  • Genuine desire to learn a skilled trade and grow with us
  • Mechanical aptitude a plus - if you like working with your hands, fixing things, or building things, you'll do well here
  • Ability to read, write, and follow written instructions in English
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds
  • Forklift, crane, or material handling experience is a plus (not required)

Schedule

  • 1st Shift: Monday–Friday, 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM
  • 2nd Shift: Monday–Friday, 4:20 PM – 2:50 AM - earn 10% more with our 2nd shift differential

Overtime, including weekends, may be available during peak production - a chance to boost your paycheck.

What We Offer

  • Hire-On Bonus and Weekly Pay
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance starting Day 1
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Tuition Assistance for machining and manufacturing coursework
  • Paid Vacation, Sick Time, and Holidays
  • Company-paid Life Insurance and Short/Long-Term Disability
  • HSA and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Gainsharing Bonus Opportunities
  • Clean, safe, modern manufacturing facility
  • Employee Appreciation Events, Food Trucks, Treat Days, and More
  • 75+ years of stability - and a growth plan that needs you

If you're ready to work hard and build a real career - not just collect a paycheck - apply today at www.acmeind.com/careers. No resume? No problem. Just apply.

Acme Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply