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Operator Trainee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Furnace Operator/General Labor

Fraser, MI

$20/hr

Trainee will operate under the supervision of an approved furnace operator and must have the recommendation of the training operator and supervisor. Must pass hands on test and a written Level 1 Heat ...

Valeo

Trainee

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Valeo Management is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Trainee to join our dynamic team. This entry-level position offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience across various ...

Valeo

Trainee

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Job Summary Valeo Management is seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Trainee to join our dynamic team. This entry-level position offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience across ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Manistee, MI · On-site

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Detroit, MI

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Manistee, MI · On-site

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Detroit, MI · On-site

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Manistee, MI

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Manistee, MI · On-site

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Manistee, MI · On-site

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Detroit, MI · On-site

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Manistee, MI · On-site

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

GABLETEK

Skilled Trades Trainee

Troy, MI · On-site

Skilled Trades Trainee Gabletek is seeking motivated Skilled Trades Trainees interested in building a long-term career in industrial automation and skilled trades. This is an excellent opportunity ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Michigan

Operator Trainee information

See Michigan salary details

$22.2K

$37.9K

$55.3K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Michigan is $37,941.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28,800.00 and $44,500.00 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan? For Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,941 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Furnace Operator/General Labor

Furnace Operator/General Labor

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Fraser, MI

$20/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job description:

DESCRIPTION:

The Furnace Operator is responsible for operating the batch furnaces and supervising the Batch Rackers. The operator must also burn shims and complete paperwork for the batch department. The operator must also rack when required and assist in training all employees, within all departments as required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Able to perform the duties as a racker
  • Operate Batch and Temper Furnace
  • Make adjustments to controls as needed
  • Verify accuracy of racking of product with appropriate fixtures/alloy and racking
  • Perform routine maintenance on the carbon analyzer as required.
  • Burn shims and document paperwork
  • Verify unracking of product following appropriate requirements
  • Assist with Racking and unracking of product
  • Verify completion and accuracy of paperwork/tags within the department
  • Maintain cleanliness and overall organization within the department

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Batch Rackers and all other employees in the department during the absence of the shift supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS / TRAINING REQUIREMENTS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Additional training needs will be identified during employee appraisals.

Furnace operating:

Trainee will operate under the supervision of an approved furnace operator and must have the recommendation of the training operator and supervisor. Must pass hands on test and a written Level 1 Heat Treat Test or Quality/ Heat Treat Operations Test with a score of 85%.

Hi-lo Permit Test

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or general education degree (GED) preferred, but not required. One to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to add, subtracts, multiply, and divides in all units of measure, using whole numbers, and decimals.

REASONING ABILITY

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

HI-LO LICENSED REQUIRED

Must be willing to take HI-LO test.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand and must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to extreme heat. Noise level in the work environment is moderately loud.

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