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Operator Trainee Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Entry Level Machine Operator Trainee

Peru, IL

$21.50/hr

Entry Level Machine Operator Trainee The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, setting up, and monitoring cold forming equipment used to manufacture precision metal fasteners and components.

PTC

Weld Mill Operator Trainee

Fairbury, IL · On-site

$21.43/hr

PTC is a leading manufacturer and marketer of welded and cold drawn mechanical steel tubing and tubular shapes, plated bar and tubing, and fabricated parts and precision components. We at PTC value ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator - Entry Level

Peoria, IL

$17 - $20/hr

Job Title: Entry Level Machine Operator Trainee- 1st or 2nd shift $17-$20/hr Weekly pay Candidates will be responsible for training on CNC equipment such as mills and lathes, read and understand ...

New

ClarkDietrich

Maintenance Trainee

Rochelle, IL · On-site

Upon completion of training, the maintenance trainee will have ability to ... Understand Standard Operating Procedures (start up, shut down, adjustment) and to repair all ...

Davis Staffing, Inc.

Sewing Instructor

Chicago, IL

$22 - $24/hr

Ensure sewing operator trainees utilize equipment safely and employ methods to ensure safe operation while adhering to company quality standards and procedures. * Help sewing operator trainees to ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Illinois

Operator Trainee information

See Illinois salary details

$24.7K

$42.2K

$61.5K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Illinois is $42,182.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,000.00 and $49,400.00 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 Illinois? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Illinois? For Operator Trainee jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,182 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Extruder Trainee Winnebago - 2nd Shift

Extruder Trainee Winnebago - 2nd Shift

Quanex

Winnebago, IL

$17.50/hr

Full-time, Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Quanex is looking for an Extruder Operator Trainee - 3rd shift, to join our team located in Winnebago, IL.

The Extruder Operator Trainee works as part of a team, as well as independently to run and maintain assigned extruder machines to produce quality window and door parts to customer specifications, with minimal waste.

This is a full-time, 8-hour position, that works 2:45 pm to 11:15 pm, Mon - Fri, and frequently works mandatory overtime.

We Offer You:

  • Health Benefits: medical (with FSA or HSA account options), dental & vision plans!
  • Supplemental benefits: company paid life insurance & AD&D, short-term & long-term disability, Employee Assistance Programs
  • Financial benefits: 401K with Employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plan eligibility
  • Work-Life benefits: Paid Time Off (40 hours), Paid Sick Time (1 hour for every 40 hours worked), and Paid Holidays (up to 9 days annually)
  • Education Assistance

What's attractive about the Extruder Operator Trainee position?

  • Great Team Atmosphere
  • Fast Paced Environment.
  • The company LIVES its values

What Success Looks Like:

  • Participate in pre-shift meetings to review Safety, Quality, and Production goals
  • Review production schedule, and perform work in accordance with targets, while maintaining a safe work environment.
  • Place parts into crates and label according to packaging procedures using safe body mechanics.
  • Perform quality checks on parts and document results in accordance with standard work tasks.
  • Cut and weigh product samples for quality assurance, testing, or customer requirements.
  • Identify and inform appropriate staff regarding product defects.
  • Anticipate the demand for needed materials by planning and monitoring assigned lines.
  • Record ‘sold’ quantity, scrap quantity, line speed, SPC, and OEE
  • Push finished product carts to staging area, replace empty card, and pre-load the first stage of packaging.

Your Credentials:

  • Previous manufacturing or industrial experience preferred.
  • Good reading ability and basic math skills
  • Basic computer proficiency
  • Ability to use hand tools, previous experience with calipers a plus!
  • Able to stand for long periods of time.
  • Interest in learning new skills and career growth
  • Safety focus with a willingness to adhere to safety guidelines.

Expected Salary: $17.50/hour + $0.50/hour shift differential

About Quanex, A Part of Something Bigger

Quanex (NYSE: NX) is a global, publicly traded manufacturing company primarily serving OEMs in the fenestration, cabinetry, solar, refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving the performance and aesthetics of end products through continuous innovation, helping customers achieve greater production efficiencies, dedication to giving back to communities where we operate, producing shareholder value and helping our employees learn, grow, and thrive. Learn more at Quanex.com.

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About Quanex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1927

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