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Operator Trainee Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Waste Collection Operator Trainee

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$26.98 - CA$31.57/hr

As a trainee, you will complete on-the-job training alongside a Waste Collection Operator (WCO) in order to learn the necessary skills to perform waste collection duties and responsibilities, safety ...

... of Operator trainees. You'll be supported with personalised on the job training, coaching ... mentoring and twice-yearly development and performance reviews to help maintain & develop your ...

The Management Trainee will work closely with experienced managers to learn about Outside Sales, Production/Warehouse Management, Office Management, Service Management and ultimately prepare you for ...

The Management Trainee will work closely with experienced managers to learn about Outside Sales, Production/Warehouse Management, Office Management, Service Management and ultimately prepare you for ...

The Management Trainee will work closely with experienced managers to learn about Outside Sales, Production/Warehouse Management, Office Management, Service Management and ultimately prepare you for ...

Management Trainee

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$64K/yr

The Management Trainee will work closely with experienced managers to learn about Outside Sales, Production/Warehouse Management, Office Management, Service Management and ultimately prepare you for ...

Brandt is currently seeking a Sales Trainee for our Mississauga Construction & Forestry location. This position is responsible for providing support and coordinating the functions of the sales ...

Sales Trainee will work with management to maintain customer relationships between sales, merchandising and operations for all large & small format "off premise" stores. The primary role of the ST is ...

Sales Trainee will work with management to maintain customer relationships between sales, merchandising and operations for all large & small format "off premise" stores. The primary role of the ST is ...

Sales Trainee will work with management to maintain customer relationships between sales, merchandising and operations for all large & small format "off premise" stores. The primary role of the ST is ...

Management Trainee

Pembroke, ON · On-site

CA$54K/yr

... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ... that our Management Trainee position does not typically fall under an eligible National ...

... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ... that our Management Trainee position does not typically fall under an eligible National ...

Management Trainee

Pembroke, ON · On-site

CA$54K/yr

... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ... that our Management Trainee position does not typically fall under an eligible National ...

... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ... that our Management Trainee position does not typically fall under an eligible National ...

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Operator Trainee information

See Ontario salary details

$11

$17

$24

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for operator trainee in Ontario is $17.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $21.15 per hour, 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 Ontario?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Ontario are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Ontario are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Ontario with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,736 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Waste Collection Operator Trainee

City of Ottawa

Ottawa, ON • On-site

CA$26.98 - CA$31.57/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Requisition ID: 23416 
Department: Public Works Dept. 
Service: Solid Waste Services 
Employment Type: Multiple CasualPositions
Affiliation: CUPE 503 - In/Out/NS Sal & Wage 
Salary Information: $26.982 - $31.566 per hour (2024 rates of pay)
Location: 2799 Swansea Crescent 
Job Category: Labourer Jobs
Application Close: 31/12/2026

JOB SUMMARY

The Collections Operations Unit oversees residential waste collection programs and services, including garbage, recycling, organics, yard and leaf waste, for the city's designated collection zone, which currently serves 70,000 homes.

As a trainee, you will complete on-the-job training alongside a Waste Collection Operator (WCO) in order to learn the necessary skills to perform waste collection duties and responsibilities, safety and efficiently. Your duties and responsibilities (as outlined below) including operating vehicles and equipment and performing general labour in the collection and disposal of waste will gradually increase throughout the training and evaluation period.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of Grade 10

Less than 6 months of work experience operating heavy equipment and vehicles.

Recycling and refuse collection experience is an asset.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENCES
Valid Ontario unrestricted DZ class driver's licence (or provincial equivalent) with no more than 6 demerit points accumulated
KNOWLEDGE
  • Ontario Highway Traffic Act and related regulations involved in equipment operation
  • Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA)
  • Understanding of mechanical and hydraulic systems to safely operate heavy equipment
  • Hazards, precautions, and safe operating practices for operating heavy equipment and vehicles
  • Proper lifting techniques
  • WHMIS, First Aid and Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
  • Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers
COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Operation of heavy equipment 
  • Read and follow route maps, drawings, and street signs
  • Understand and follow written and oral instructions
  • Able to successfully complete a Post-Offer Employment Test 
  • Able to keep detailed, accurate records concerning materials received, processed, and disbursed as well as required equipment service records
  • Able to work collaboratively and take direction from staff while on assigned route
  • Understand and demonstrate safe working practices
  • Establish and maintain a good working relationship with management, other employees, and the public
  • Ability to communicate basic concepts to members of the public
  • Able to climb to and from the operator's position and possess the manual dexterity and coordination to use both hands and feet simultaneously to operate a machine
  • Ability to work in a physical demanding environment, including the ability to lift up to 75lbs
  • Use a high-pressure water hose to clean solid waste equipment
  • Work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the outdoor elements

Core Behaviours

Core behaviours define the City's expectations of the behaviours employees should demonstrate in performing their work.  They are reflective of the City's culture and values and guide all our present and future activities.  Every employee is encouraged to learn, embody and demonstrate these core behaviours.

Review the Core Behaviours.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

  • Language Requirement: English oral, reading, writing
  • Driver's License Requirement:  A valid Ontario unrestricted DZ class driver's license (or provincial equivalent) with no more than 6 demerit points accumulated.
  • You may initially be paid 85% of your starting rate of pay until you have completed 120 hours of work. Upon completion of 120 hours, you will be paid 95% of your starting rate of pay until you have completed 976 hours, in accordance with the collective agreement.
  • Experience and formal training combined with demonstrated performance and ability may substitute for stipulated academic requirements. 
  • Please save a copy of the job poster. Once the closing date has passed, it will no longer be available. 

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. 

The City of Ottawa promotes the principles of diversity and inclusion and adheres to the tenets of the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We encourage applications from members of Indigenous, Black and other racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women and non-binary persons, persons of all ethnic origins, religions, sexual orientations, classes, gender identities and expressions. 
Candidates are encouraged to self-identify as a member of one or more designated employment equity groups in the self-identification questionnaire.

The City of Ottawa provides accommodation to applicants during all parts of the hiring process, upon request. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.

 

Accessible formats and communication supports are available upon request. Please contact the Employee Service Centre at 613-580-2424 extension 12211 or via email at esc-cse@ottawa.ca.

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