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Operator Trainee Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Sabert

Operator Trainee

Shepherdsville, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

* * * * * Description BASIC FUNCTION Learn the required procedures to operate an extruder/thermoformer as a Level 1 Operator. These duties include following the production schedule and making sure all supplies ...

Sabert Corporation

Operator Trainee

Shepherdsville, KY · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Description BASIC FUNCTION Learn the required procedures to operate an extruder/thermoformer as a Level 1 Operator. These duties include following the production schedule and making sure all supplies ...

UACJ Automotive Whitehall

Press Operator Trainee

Paducah, KY · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Familiar with operating procedures and paperwork at the B/O saw * Read, understand and implement instructions on routing tickets/HMI * Use Cadex system to improve dies performance * Assist with ...

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All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Kentucky

Operator Trainee information

See Kentucky salary details

$22.1K

$37.8K

$55.2K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Kentucky is $37,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28,700.00 and $44,300.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Kentucky?

For Operator Trainee jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,807 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Operator Trainee

Sabert

Shepherdsville, KY • On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Sabert rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

          • Description

            BASIC FUNCTION

            Learn the required procedures to operate an extruder/thermoformer as a Level 1 Operator. These duties include following the production schedule and making sure all supplies needed for production runs are available. Perform other related duties as assigned.

            REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

            Safety

            • Must wear all assigned safety personal protective equipment, may be position specific, at all times as required by Sabert polic
            • Adheres to all safety policies and reports
            • Must be trained and able to perform proper lockout-tagout procedures
            • Must be trained and able to perform proper confined space entry
            • Must be properly trained to use hand tools that are required to perform operator duties
            • Must be trained in proper operation of power tools required for daily duties
            • Trained Behavior Based Safety Champion

            Cleanliness

            • Must keep entire line in a neat and clean manner using 6S principles and good manufacturing practice

            Material Handling

            • Must be able to set up and operate material blender system to keep production line supplied with
            • Knowledgeable in the startup and operation of a material weigh hopper
            • Must be able to startup and operate the vacuum loading system including the vacuum control
            • Knowledgeable in the operation, function, and cleaning requirements of the dust control

            Quality

            • Must make sure that all product that is produced meets or exceeds minimum standards for quality packaged finished goods
            • Perform quality checks, such as part weight, proper form, lid fit, sheet thickness, water leak test, and CPET oven test, on production at specified intervals and record results on proper paperwork.
            • Must abide by all food safety regulations such as Good Manufacturing Practices and sliver control procedures

            Miscellaneous

            • Other related duties as assigned

            QUALIFICATIONS

            EXPERIENCE:

            • Previous manufacturing experience a must

            CERTIFICATION, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

            PHYSICALDEMANDS - HOURLY POSITIONS

            • Standing(95% of the Day)
            • Lifting (no more than 40 lbs)
            • Heat Related ( when working on extruder die)
            • Work in accordance with all company policies and procedures regarding employment, safety, quality, product safety and legality, security, and regulatory compliance as applicable

What Sabert employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Sabert

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sayreville, NJ, US

Year founded

1983

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