1

Operator Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Press Operator Trainee This role trains you to operate manufacturing machinery, handle materials safely, and inspect finished products in a production environment. You will learn to work with ...

Press Operator Trainee

El Monte, CA · On-site

$53K - $67K/yr

Press Operator Trainee This role trains you to operate manufacturing machinery, handle materials safely, and inspect finished products in a production environment. You will learn to work with ...

Dip Operator Trainee

El Monte, CA · On-site

$53K - $67K/yr

Operator Trainee This role trains you to operate material handling and production equipment in a manufacturing environment. You safely move large honeycomb blocks, prepare and measure ingredients ...

Dip Operator Trainee

El Monte, CA · On-site

$53K - $67K/yr

Operator Trainee This role trains you to operate material handling and production equipment in a manufacturing environment. You safely move large honeycomb blocks, prepare and measure ingredients ...

Press Operator Trainee This role trains you to operate manufacturing machinery, handle materials safely, and inspect finished products in a production environment. You will learn to work with ...

Press Operator Trainee This role trains you to operate manufacturing machinery, handle materials safely, and inspect finished products in a production environment. You will learn to work with ...

As a CNC Operator (Trainee), you'll support machining and post-processing operations while learning how advanced CNC manufacturing works in a modern, production-scale environment. --- The Work You'll ...

The Powerhouse Assistant Operator Trainee is in the beginning phases of learning to operate and maintain systems within the powerhouse to ensure the continuous and steady operation of supplying steam ...

The Powerhouse Assistant Operator Trainee is in the beginning phases of learning to operate and maintain systems within the powerhouse to ensure the continuous and steady operation of supplying steam ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Operator Trainee information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in California is $42,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 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, 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in California? For Operator Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Press Operator Trainee

Press Operator Trainee

Aerotek

El Monte, CA

$53K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Press Operator Trainee

Job Description

This role trains you to operate manufacturing machinery, handle materials safely, and inspect finished products in a production environment. You will learn to work with forklifts, respirators, and hazardous materials while supporting consistent, high-quality output on the production floor.

Responsibilities

  • Operate manufacturing machines under supervision and follow established operating procedures.
  • Handle raw materials and finished goods, including loading, unloading, and staging materials for production.
  • Inspect finished materials to ensure they meet quality and safety standards, and report any defects or irregularities.
  • Use a forklift to move materials and products safely around the facility, following all safety protocols.
  • Wear and maintain a respirator as required for specific tasks and work areas.
  • Assist with hazmat handling activities in accordance with safety and regulatory guidelines.
  • Support hazardous waste handling and compounding tasks as directed and in line with training and procedures.
  • Follow all manufacturing, safety, and housekeeping standards to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
  • Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production goals and resolve issues promptly.
  • Participate fully in all required training for machinery operation, respirator use, hazmat handling, hazardous waste, and compounding.

Essential Skills

  • Ability to operate manufacturing machines safely and follow detailed instructions.
  • Capability to perform material handling tasks, including lifting, moving, and organizing materials.
  • Basic inspection skills to check finished materials for quality and defects.
  • Willingness and ability to use a forklift, with training provided as needed.
  • Ability to wear and properly use a respirator in accordance with safety guidelines.
  • Willingness to work with hazmat materials and hazardous waste under proper supervision and training.
  • Attention to detail and strong commitment to safety in a manufacturing environment.
  • Reliability and consistency in following procedures and completing assigned tasks.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience with hazmat handling is a plus.
  • Compounder or experience in compounding processes is beneficial.
  • Prior experience in manufacturing, machine operation, or materials handling is advantageous.
  • Comfort working with aerospace-related materials or processes is an asset.

Why Work Here?

You join a manufacturing organization that invests in your growth through comprehensive training on machinery, respirator use, hazmat handling, hazardous waste, and compounding. You benefit from medical and vision coverage through a well-known provider, and you become part of a company with a strong reputation in its industry. This role offers a pathway to build valuable, transferable skills in a stable and safety-focused environment.

Work Environment

You work in a manufacturing facility that focuses on safety, quality, and efficiency. The environment involves operating machinery, handling materials, and using equipment such as forklifts and respirators. You may work around aerospace-related materials and participate in hazmat handling and hazardous waste processes. The role requires adherence to strict safety protocols and procedures, with training provided on all machinery and specialized equipment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of El Monte, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $53185.00 - $67871.00/yr.

Anthem medical/vision – Cigna – Vision 401k profit sharing

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in El Monte,CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 12, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.