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Operator Trainee Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

City of Eagan

Maintenance Trainee

Eagan, MN

$31.14/hr

As a Trainee, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals in our Public ... operators in daily activities Clean and maintain pump houses, treatment plants, and booster ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Inver Grove Heights, MN

$20.65 - $22.72/hr

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

Inver Grove Heights, MN · On-site

$20.65 - $22.72/hr

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

Inver Grove Heights, MN · On-site

$20.65 - $22.72/hr

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 ...

Dayton Freight

Sales Management Trainee

Roseville, MN · On-site

Overview The Sales Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors. This 24-week, hands-on job experience offers the opportunity for each Trainee to ...

Safety-Kleen

Driver Class B Trainee

Moorhead, MN

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Safety-Kleen in Fargo is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B Trainee ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Dayton Freight

Sales Management Trainee

Roseville, MN · On-site

The Sales Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors. This 24-week, hands-on job experience offers the opportunity for each Trainee to become part ...

Dayton Freight

Sales Management Trainee

Roseville, MN · On-site

Overview The Sales Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors. This 24-week, hands-on job experience offers the opportunity for each Trainee to ...

Safety-Kleen

Driver Class B Trainee

Dilworth, MN

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Safety-Kleen in Fargo is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B Trainee ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Clean Harbors

Driver Class B Trainee

Blaine, MN · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Safety-Kleen in Blaine, MN is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Safety-Kleen

Driver Class B Trainee

Moorhead, MN

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Safety-Kleen in Fargo is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B Trainee ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Safety-Kleen

Driver Class B Trainee

Ham Lake, MN

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Safety-Kleen in Blaine, MN is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

CleanHarbors

Driver Class B Trainee

Blaine, MN

$24 - $25/hr

Safety-Kleen in Blaine, MN is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Minnesota

Operator Trainee information

See Minnesota salary details

$25K

$42.6K

$62.2K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Minnesota is $42,634.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,300.00 and $50,000.00 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 Minnesota? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Minnesota? For Operator Trainee jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Minnesota as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,634 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Welder / CNC Operator Trainee - $1000 Sign On Bonus

Welder / CNC Operator Trainee - $1000 Sign On Bonus

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing, Inc (CEM)

Frazee, MN • On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

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Job description

Frazee, MN | Monday–Friday | Day Shift | No Weekends

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing is looking for a Welder / CNC Operator Trainee to join our Frazee, MN team.

This is a great opportunity for someone who has some hands-on welding or manufacturing experience and wants to grow into a long-term career. This person will start by supporting welding and production needs, while also training into CNC machine operation.

This is not a from-scratch training position. We are looking for someone who already has some basic welding, shop, mechanical, or manufacturing experience and is ready to build on that.

Why CEM?

CEM is a family-owned manufacturing company with locations in Chaska and Frazee, Minnesota. For over 42 years, we have built our business on stability, steady growth, and taking care of our employees. We are proud to say we have never had a layoff, even through recessions, supply chain issues, and economic uncertainty.

If you are looking for a stable company where you can learn, grow, and build a long-term career, this is a great place to do that.

What You’ll Do

  • Perform welding work as needed to support production
  • Read and follow work instructions, prints, and job requirements
  • Inspect parts for quality and accuracy
  • Grind, clean, prep, and finish parts as needed
  • Assist with assembly and other shop duties when needed
  • Train into CNC machine operation
  • Load and unload parts in CNC machines
  • Learn how to check parts using measuring tools
  • Keep work area clean, safe, and organized
  • Follow all safety and quality procedures

What We’re Looking For

  • Some welding, fabrication, shop, or manufacturing experience required
  • CNC experience is a plus, but not required
  • Ability to read basic prints or work instructions preferred
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Good attendance and reliability
  • Willingness to learn CNC operation
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a small team
  • Someone who takes pride in doing quality work

Schedule

  • Monday through Friday
  • Day shift
  • No weekends
  • Stable, predictable hours

Benefits

  • 100% company-paid employee medical insurance with a $500 deductible plan
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k) with 4% company match after eligibility
  • PTO starts day one
  • Paid holidays
  • Annual bonuses
  • Quarterly luncheons and holiday parties
  • Training and growth opportunities
  • Clean, air-conditioned shop
  • Long-term stability with a family-owned company
  • $1000 Sign On Bonus

About Continental Engineering & Manufacturing

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing specializes in precision machining, welding, assembly, and driveline components. We serve customers across North America and take pride in quality work, long-term customer relationships, and creating stable careers for our employees.

We are a smaller, family-owned company where employees are more than just a number. Many of our employees stay long-term and retire here.

Apply today to join our Frazee team and grow your career in welding and CNC machining.

Company Description

Continental Engineering and Manufacturing (CEM) is a family-owned manufacturing company based in Chaska and Frazee, Minnesota. Since 1983, we've been at the forefront of precision machining, welding, and assembly, which has complemented our original focus on drive shaft components and assemblies. We serve a diverse clientele across North America and beyond, offering CNC horizontal and vertical milling, CNC horizontal and vertical turning (with robotic loading), broaching, hobbing, balancing, painting, welding, assembly, inspection, and stocking programs all supported by continuous investments in upgrading equipment and cutting-edge technology.
At Continental, we foster a strong, positive culture that values teamwork, collaboration, respect, and the growth of every individual. With an impressive 42-year history of stability and a proud record of never having a single layoff, we provide our employees with a secure and supportive environment. We invest in our team’s future by offering training programs that empower our members to enhance their skills and advance their careers.
We are ISO 9001-2015 certified and committed to delivering cost-efficient, reliable products while building lasting relationships with customers, vendors, employees, and the community. Our air-conditioned shop, generous benefits, and strong emphasis on work-life balance make us a top choice for manufacturing professionals.