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Operator Trainee Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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

Peoria, IL · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

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

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Mount Vernon, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

East Moline, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Rockford, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Rockford, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

East Moline, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Rockford, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Hampshire, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Arcola, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

East Moline, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Mount Vernon, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Collinsville, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 5, 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?

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 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 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 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 do operator trainees do?

Operator trainees learn to operate and maintain machinery or equipment in industrial, manufacturing, or utility settings. They typically receive on-the-job training, develop technical skills, and may work under supervision to ensure safety and efficiency. Completing training programs or certifications is often required to advance to full operator roles.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,182 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Weld Mill Operator Trainee

PTC

Fairbury, IL • On-site

$21.43/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Set up the mill using setup charts and reference manuals.

  • Direct crew members during setup, minor maintenance, and production activities.

  • Adjust and operate the tube mill to produce quality products with minimal waste and downtime.

Job description

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 our employees' health and wellness. We offer the following:
  • FREE Healthcare
  • HSA option
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • 401K plan with company match
  • Voluntary Employee Life and AD&D
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Referral Bonus
  • Annual college scholarship available for children & grandchildren of PTC employees

Job Summary:
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Correctly set the mill up using setup charts and mill reference manual
  • Gives direction to crew members to assist in the setup and minor maintenance.
  • Gives direction to crew members during production
  • Adjust and operates tube mill to produce a quality product with accepted quantities with a minimum amount of waste and downtime
  • Constantly inspects and monitors product including measurements of length, gauge, od size, id cut, weld integrity/weld test, and end condition.
  • Fills out all applicable paperwork through the operation including entering data into computer
  • Runs eddy current tester; documents and verifies setup
  • Responsible for safety of self and crew members
  • Cleans all areas of the plant when not directed by supervisor to do anything else.
  • Performs miscellaneous duties as directed

Minimum Education and/or Experience Requirements:
Number of Direct Reports: None
Job Titles of Direct Reports: None
Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to reason through problems involving adjustments to equipment.
  • Must have an average background in math and computers.
  • Expected to be able to lift, push or pull a maximum 50 pounds. Required to walk, stand, or climb for the entire shift. Must be able to bend, squat and have full range of all limbs without restrictions.
  • Must have a HS diploma or GED
  • The incumbent is expected to understand that all employees have a shared responsibility for the quality of products and related services provided to our customers. Duties and responsibilities are to be carried out in accordance with the PTC Quality Management System and its policies, procedures, and work instructions as applicable to the job or function being performed.

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations:
Work Environment:
Must be able to work in the presence of heat, smoke, and mill coolants
  • Pinch points on all turning rolls
  • Sharp edges and burrs on strip moving through the mill
  • Hot OD scarf
  • Hot tubing and scarfing in weld area
  • Sharp id and od scarfing
  • Trip hazards on floor
  • Slippery floors
  • Long hair must be worn up

Work Environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, however employees are expected to spend significant timer in the plant's manufacturing areas where noise levels may be high. Employee is required to abide by plant safety rules, and PPE requirements.
Physical Demands:
Physical Demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to sit. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel or crouch. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

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