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Operator Trainee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Albemarle

Utility Operator

New Johnsonville, TN

Trainees will undergo training and necessary assessments and progress into Utility Operator. This position will work Monday through Thursday, rotating 12-hr shifts. Per the site's Collective ...

Wise Staffing Group

Forklift Operator

Athens, TN · On-site

$15/hr

Proven experience as a forklift operator (trainees also welcome). Attention to Detail: Must be familiar with industrial equipment and exhibit meticulous attention to detail. Physical Condition:

Wise Staffing Group

Forklift

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17/hr

Proven experience as a forklift operator (trainees also welcome). Attention to Detail: Must be familiar with industrial equipment and exhibit meticulous attention to detail. Physical Condition:

Airliquidehr

Sales Trainee

Chattanooga, TN

The Trainee will develop the ability to sell all Airgas products to his/her customer base. Upon ... Operating Income, and EBITDA 50% - Demonstrate practical application of knowledge and skills

Airgas

Sales Trainee

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

The Trainee will develop the ability to sell all Airgas products to his/her customer base. Upon ... Operating Income, and EBITDA 50% - Demonstrate practical application of knowledge and skills

Maxim Crane Works LP

Sales Trainee

Memphis, TN · On-site

Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and operating standards. * Perform other duties ... Sales Trainees will receive ongoing mentorship, training, and performance coaching to support their ...

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All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Tennessee

Operator Trainee information

See Tennessee salary details

$23.1K

$39.5K

$57.6K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Tennessee is $39,509.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,000.00 and $46,300.00 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Tennessee? For Operator Trainee jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,509 per year, or $19 per hour.
Utility Operator

Utility Operator

Albemarle

New Johnsonville, TN

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Be an essential element to a brighter future.

We work together to transform essential resources into critical ingredients for mobility, energy, connectivity and health. Join our values-led organization committed to building a more resilient world with people and planet in mind. Our core values are the foundation that make us successful for ourselves, our customers and the planet.

Job Description

Background:
At Albemarle, we've built a thriving international business by envisioning a limitless future and putting innovation to work to improve people's lives. That's our culture. That's our commitment. And when you join our team, it's an opportunity you share with talented men and women around the globe. Anyone can give you a job. At Albemarle, we believe you deserve more. Something big enough to build a future. Big enough to change the world.
Position Summary:
The New Johnsonville manufacturing facility is a Butyllithium and Specialties plant with multiple processes. The plant utility operator works as a team to operate, monitor, and troubleshoot all plant processes including production, shipping and receiving, and manufacturing support. The utility operators are responsible for documenting process steps, production quantities, process upsets, and troubleshooting process problems. Per the site's Collective Bargaining Agreement, all new employees will onboard as an Operator Trainee pay rate. Trainees will undergo training and necessary assessments and progress into Utility Operator.
This position will work Monday through Thursday, rotating 12-hr shifts.
Per the site's Collective Bargaining Agreement, all new employees will onboard as an Operator Trainee pay rate. Trainees will undergo training and necessary assessments and progress into Utility Operator.
Responsibilities:
  • Maintain a clean and safe work area while complying with safety and environmental requirements at all times, i.e., OSHA, EPA, site permits, etc.
  • Remedy unsafe conditions when found, e.g., tripping hazards and spills and report conditions where immediate action cannot be accomplished.
  • Receive training regarding the production areas and demonstrate the material learned in training while working with other utility operators.
  • Work in a team environment to start-up, shutdown, monitor, inspect, operate, and adjust plant equipment while meeting customer expectations.
  • Operate production equipment including, but not limited to, computer HMI control screens, storage tanks, reactor vessels, casting machine, filtration equipment, and packaging equipment.
  • Possess knowledge of ISO requirements and ensure compliance as related to plant operations.
  • Troubleshoot plant to resolve process and mechanical problems and malfunctions.
  • Maintain technical databases (electronic) and manual recordkeeping as instructed.
  • Support training for other utility operators in production tasks, equipment operation, quality checks, packaging, etc.
  • Perform PM on plant equipment and assist in repairs as assigned.
  • Follow written and verbal instructions and SOPs.
  • Involve preparation/lockouts for equipment and permitting including signing on and executing hazardous line breaks
  • Participate in the plant safety training and other required safety training, including HAZWOPER
  • Must be flexible with rotating work shifts, and willing to work overtime
  • Must be able to wear respiratory protection and other PPE
  • Other duties may be assigned
It would be great if you also had:
  • Proficient in transferring liquids between containers.
  • Experience with automated systems.
Education and Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent.
  • Possess strong communication skills for interaction with all chemical plant employees. Ability to receive verbal and written direction including plant safety rules, policies and procedures, and implement without direct supervision.
  • Physical requirements: Lifting up to 50 lbs., frequent walking, bending, stooping, balancing, ascending and descending ladders, operating various mobile equipment, pulling, crouching, twisting, and reaching. Must have near and far vision with clarity at 20 feet of less, hear well enough to perceive the nature of sounds and have good depth perception as well as be able to distinguish colors. Requires handling tools and equipment necessary to perform above listed tasks.
  • Environmental Conditions: Exposure to chemical plant manufacturing facilities. Must work both outside and inside and often in inclement weather conditions. Frequent exposure to noise and vibration. Must be able to distinguish emergency and other alarms and respond according to prescribe procedures.

Benefits of Joining Albemarle

  • Competitive compensation

  • Comprehensive benefits package

  • A diverse array of resources to support you professionally and personally.

We are partners to one another in pioneering new ways to be better for ourselves, our teams, and our communities. When you join Albemarle, you become our most essential element and you can anticipate competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package, and resources that foster your well-being and fuel your personal growth. Help us shape the future, build with purpose and grow together.

Albemarle logo

About Albemarle

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Albemarle Corp (Albemarle) is a specialty chemical manufacturer. It carries out the development, manufacturing and marketing of highly-engineered value added products including catalysts, bromine and derivatives and lithium compounds.

Industry

Construction and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1887

Social media

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