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Operator Trainee Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

May communicate with thickener operator on flows to tailings dam * Responsible for learning the monitoring system on tailings line and may assist in performing adjustments as necessary * May operate ...

Hydromet CLP Operator Trainee

Bagdad, AZ · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Experience operating material handling equipment including forklift, skid steer loader, and overhead crane Criteria/Conditions * Ability to understand and apply verbal and written work and safety ...

May communicate with thickener operator on flows to tailings dam * Responsible for learning the monitoring system on tailings line and may assist in performing adjustments as necessary * May operate ...

Located 100 miles northwest of Phoenix, Bagdad is home to the world's first commercial - scale concentrate leach processing facility, as well as one of the longest continuously operating solvent ...

Hydromet CLP Operator Trainee

Bagdad, AZ · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Located 100 miles northwest of Phoenix, Bagdad is home to the world's first commercial - scale concentrate leach processing facility, as well as one of the longest continuously operating solvent ...

... Trainee (OST) duties are: Satisfactory completion of all training objectives to develop the skills ... The OST will be involved in all aspects of operating a power generation facility. Various ...

... operating solvent extraction/electrowinning plants in the world.  Visit the Bagdad town website to learn more. What You Will Do * Performs duties related to the leaching process and leach field ...

Nuclear Commercial Operator (>3 years) * Maritime Academy Engineer * Engineering Bachelor's Degree Nuclear requirement: Any PVNGS employee may be called upon to serve as a member of the Emergency ...

Hydromet SX Operator Trainee

Bagdad, AZ · On-site

$20 - $26.50/hr

Located 100 miles northwest of Phoenix, Bagdad is home to the world's first commercial - scale concentrate leach processing facility, as well as one of the longest continuously operating solvent ...

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Management Trainee

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Each Greentech Renewables location is locally managed and operated, affording our employees the ... Greentech Renewable's Management Trainees are taught every aspect of our solar business, from the ...

Showing results 21-40

Operator Trainee information

See Arizona salary details

$23.8K

$40.6K

$59.2K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Arizona is $40,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,800.00 and $47,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator trainee?

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 is an operator trainee?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Arizona are:

What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,565 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Equipment Operator Trainee - Salvage Baler/Forklift 1st Shift

Goodwill of Central & Northern Arizona

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$15.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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


Goodwill Of Central And Northern Arizona rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

654th of 772 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

515 N 51st Ave Phoenix Arizona, 85043, +1 (602) 5138420
Starting Pay :$15.50 Hourly
Position Description :
This is a safety sensitive position. Participates in the training program for no less than 90 days in order to learn how to safely operate various equipment to include baling machines to produce bales for sale to salvage or recycle vendors and responsible for transporting materials utilizing a sit-down forklift. Must adhere to all safety policies and wearing all required personal protective equipment at all times. After successful completion of the program, must remain in good standing without any workplace corrective action or performance improvement infractions and must successfully complete 90 days of solo machine operation without any safety incidents. Upon successful completion of the training program and approval of your supervisor and the leadership team, the Equipment Operator Trainee may become eligible to be promoted to an Equipment Operator position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Safeguards company property, including donated goods. Reports any incidents of theft or misappropriation or unauthorized possession of company property.
  • Safeguards equipment including forklifts and bale machines. Responsible for clearing debris or material that will damage equipment. Ensures proper load handling and that each machine is in working order to safely operate.
  • Takes direction from leadership with a positive attitude.
  • May be cross-trained to provide support to all departments in the Retail Operations Center (ROC), including processing donations.
  • Responsible for following and ensuring all safety rules are complied with and appropriate safety equipment is used. Immediately takes action and/or reports any unsafe or potential hazards.
  • Manually transfers donated goods from Gaylord (merchandise container) to baling machine.
  • Operates baling machine to compress goods into bales.
  • Loads and unloads merchandise containers from trailers and straight trucks, ensuring safety at all times.
  • Operates hydraulic lift and/or pallet jack to move merchandise containers.
  • Performs pre-shift forklift and tipper machine inspection, to include fluid checks, safety precautions, etc. Follows Lockout/Tagout procedure if equipment is deemed unsafe or inoperable and notifies leadership.
  • Performs visual inspection of contents and manually removes any breakable materials.
  • Sweeps and/or dusts daily. Sweeps and mops floors, and washes walls around baling machines, as directed.
  • Must follow daily product placement plan schematic.
  • Upon successful completion of the training program and approval of your supervisor and the leadership team, the Equipment Operator Trainee may become eligible to be promoted to an Equipment Operator position.
  • Maintains regular and consistent in-person attendance.
  • Models Goodwill Core Values - Trust, Collaboration, Engagement, Ownership, and Innovation.
  • Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Education, Experience, Skills) :
  • High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent experience.
  • Must possess a Forklift Certification Certificate or be able to pass our Forklift Certification class.
  • Ability to be trained and take direction.
  • Ability to speak and read English proficiently.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screen, where applicable for position.

You will be eligible for a comprehensive Total Rewards package, 1st of the month following 60 days of employment that includes the following:
  • 5 Medical Plans
  • Employer Funded Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
  • 3 Dental Plans
  • Vision Plan
  • 401K
  • Employer Paid Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid Time Off; Sick and Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • These are just a few highlights of our key benefit offerings!

Become a valued member of an organization where good work meets community impact. Our mission is: Empowering Individuals, Strengthening Families, and Building Stronger Communities. Goodwill provides no-cost career development, training, and education services to help individuals build a better life for themselves and their families. Our core values are Trust, Collaboration, Engagement, Ownership, and Innovation. Everything we accomplish as a team is centered around these core values. Together, we create an inclusive and welcoming environment for each other. With stores conveniently located near you, you can work for a company where team strength and success are valued and encouraged. Join our team and gain opportunities for job growth at Goodwill and beyond.
Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified individuals seeking employment are considered without regard to race (including traits associated with race, e.g., hairstyles), color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and related conditions, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, disability, military status, age, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state and local fair employment practice laws.
Individuals with a disability may be entitled to a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or state or local laws. Please contact Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona at 1-833-624-0920 option 6 or leaves@goodwillaz.org if you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
For questions about your application or employment with Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona, please contact our Candidate Support Line at 1-833-624-0920, option 5.
PHISHING SCAM WARNING: Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona/Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley, Inc. ("GCNA/GIMV") are among several companies recently made aware of a phishing scam involving con artists posing as hiring managers recruiting via email, text and social media. The imposters are creating misleading email accounts, conducting remote "interviews," and making artificial job offers in order to collect personal and financial information from unsuspecting individuals. Please note that GCNA/GIMV only use company email addresses, which contain "@goodwillaz.org" or @gimv.org", to communicate with candidates via email. The company also uses secure tools on our website to receive data from applicants and would never ask them to submit their personal banking information to apply for an open job. If you are contacted by someone about an open job at GCNA/GIMV, please verify the domain of the sender's email address and that they are asking you to apply on this website. If you believe you have been a victim of a phishing scam, please visit the Department of Homeland Security's Cyber Smart website ( https://www.cisa.gov/be-cyber-smart/campaign ) to learn how to report it.

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