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Operator Trainee Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

ASRC

Refinery Operator Trainee

North Pole, AK · On-site

Refinery Operator Trainee is an hourly position, 7 - 12-hour shifts on and 7 days off working a rotating work schedule. Refinery Operator Trainee reports directly to the on-shift Lead Operator.

Asrc

Terminal Operator Trainee

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

Terminal Operator Trainee This position consists of a training program that will be conducted over a period of up to one year. The content of the training program will include the necessary skills ...

ASRC

Terminal Operator Trainee

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

The Terminal Operator Trainee will be expected to work a shift schedule that includes rotating day and night shifts and live in Fairbanks on a year-round basis. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ...

ASRC

Outside Operator

North Pole, AK · On-site

Complete all required Operator Trainee training. * Must have a valid driver's license and working telephone. * Ability to effectively utilize computer tools. LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and ...

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All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Alaska

Operator Trainee information

See Alaska salary details

$27.5K

$46.9K

$68.4K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Alaska is $46,880.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,500.00 and $54,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operator trainee?

An operator trainee is an entry-level worker who is learning to operate machinery or equipment under supervision. The role typically involves gaining hands-on experience, following safety protocols, and may require certification or training programs before becoming fully qualified. It is a common starting point in industries such as manufacturing, construction, or transportation.

What are some common challenges faced by Operator Trainees during their initial training period?

Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, mastering complex machinery, and quickly learning strict safety protocols. The fast-paced environment can be demanding, requiring attention to detail and the ability to follow precise instructions. Additionally, trainees must develop effective communication skills to collaborate with experienced operators and supervisors, ensuring smooth transitions and minimizing errors. Overcoming these challenges is essential for building a strong foundation for future advancement within the organization.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Operator Trainees typically do not earn $4,000 per week without specialized experience or certifications. High-paying roles that can reach this level without a degree include certain skilled trades like commercial truck drivers, oil and gas workers, or construction managers with experience, often requiring on-the-job training, certifications, or licenses. These jobs usually involve physical work, technical skills, or operating heavy equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with safety protocols, control systems, and machinery operation—sometimes supported by OSHA certifications or technical training—is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help trainees adapt quickly and handle operational challenges. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable plant or equipment operations while minimizing downtime and incidents.

What is the difference between Operator Trainee vs Equipment Operator?

AspectOperator TraineeEquipment Operator
CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingValid driver’s license, specialized certifications often required
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction sites, manufacturing plantsActive job sites, industrial facilities, construction zones
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level positions in construction, manufacturingOperational roles in construction, mining, manufacturing
Search & Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level roles, training programsSeeking job opportunities, skills required for operating equipment

In summary, an Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on training and gaining experience, often requiring minimal certifications. An Equipment Operator is a fully qualified worker responsible for operating machinery in various industrial settings. The trainee role prepares individuals for the more skilled, operational position of Equipment Operator.

What are operator trainees?

Operator trainees are entry-level employees who are undergoing training to learn how to operate machinery, equipment, or processes in various industries such as manufacturing, utilities, or transportation. They work under the supervision of experienced operators or trainers, gaining hands-on experience and developing the necessary skills for safe and efficient operation. The training period prepares them for more advanced roles and helps ensure they understand company procedures, safety protocols, and quality standards.

What is the role of an operator trainee?

An operator trainee is an entry-level worker who learns to operate machinery or equipment under supervision. They typically receive on-the-job training, may need to obtain relevant certifications, and develop skills in safety procedures and equipment operation to perform their duties effectively.

Can you get a heavy equipment operator job with no experience?

Heavy equipment operator trainee positions often do not require prior experience, as on-the-job training and certification programs teach necessary skills. Employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license, and obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can improve job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Alaska? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Alaska are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Alaska? For Operator Trainee jobs in Alaska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Alaska are:
What cities in Alaska are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Alaska with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Alaska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,880 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Refinery Operator Trainee

Refinery Operator Trainee

ASRC

North Pole, AK • On-site

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

Arctic Slope Regional Corporation rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 75 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Petro Star Inc. is a subsidiary of ASRC and was formed in 1984 to fill a unique role in Alaska's petroleum market. Our North Pole Refinery built in 1985 is a 22,000 bbl/day facility, producing heating fuel, kerosene, diesel, jet fuels, and asphalt base oil for the Interior and Northern Alaska communities. 

We operate our businesses reliably and efficiently by strategically developing energy resources to meet growing consumer demands.  Petro Star is committed to ensuring the health and safety of our employees and the public, as well as promoting concern and respect for the environment.  As an employer, Petro Star is one of the best companies in Alaska providing tremendous future potential where talented people thrive.

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for monitoring, controlling and conducting activities that pertain to the safe operation of the refinery, taking corrective action when necessary to ensure that all conditions and operations are in compliance with safety, environmental and operating policies and procedures.
Refinery Operator Trainee is an hourly position, 7 - 12-hour shifts on and 7 days off working a rotating work schedule. Refinery Operator Trainee reports directly to the on-shift Lead Operator.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (and other duties as assigned)

  • The trainee program is a three-step process leading from Trainee 1, Trainee 2 and Trainee 3. Operator Trainee 3's that successfully complete their training program will have an opportunity to advance to the Operator 1 position.
  • Learn the refinery hazards, safety procedures, distillation process and the various components, which make up the refinery.  [During the course of the one-year training period, trainees will be provided with training regarding the plant's hazards, safety procedures and educational materials explaining the distillation process and various components, which make up the refinery.]  The trainee will be tested quarterly for comprehension of assigned training curriculum.
  • Operators and trainees will work side-by-side on a 12 hour 7 days on / 7 days off work schedule.  The trainee will help cover shifts and may not follow the typical shift rotation of two shifts of days and two shifts of nights. Together, the operators and trainees will constitute a "shift" and be responsible for all aspects of the refinery's operation, ranging from housekeeping and maintenance of the unit and property to operation of the process unit during steady-state conditions or start-ups/shutdowns and process upsets.
  • While personal safety and safe operation of the refinery are the most important goals, trainees will be expected to participate in all new construction projects and turnarounds (maintenance work undertaken while the process unit is offline).  Many times, this work will fall on non-shift days, and while Petro Star will not usually require you to work overtime, you should be willing to work a reasonable amount of O/T if requested.


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Process technology AA Degree preferred.
  • Engineering, mechanical, pipe welding, environmental, instrumentation, refining experience or construction skills are beneficial but not required.
  • Good math skills.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Ability to quickly grasp and master complex ideas and procedures.
  • Ability to work and function well with other people in a team environment.
  • Ability to follow instructions.
  • This is not a rotational job on the North Slope.  You must live in the Fairbanks / North Pole area or be willing to relocate at your own expense.
     

Petro Star Inc., a division of ASRC, is a drug free workplace and pre-employment drug testing is part of the hiring process.

ASRC and its family of companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability, protected veteran status or any other legal protected status.  EOE:  M|F|D|V

Petro Star Inc. is the refining division of Arctic Slope Regional Corporation, an Inupiat-owned corporation created as a result of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. 
ASRC's family of companies apply a shareholder preference in employment, to the maximum extent feasible, as authorized by law.

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