ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operator Trainee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Wise Staffing Group

Forklift Operator

Athens, TN

$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:

Reliance

Crane Operator 2

Nashville, TN · On-site

Operators and operator trainees shall meet the following physical qualifications: * Have vision of at least 20/30 Snellen in one eye, and 20/50 Snellen in the other, with or without corrective lenses;

reliance

Crane Operator 2

Nashville, TN · On-site

Required Skills 100% Standing 80% Walking in warehouse 5% Climbing approximately 35-40 steps up to and down from crane Operators and operator trainees shall meet the following physical qualifications:

Wise Staffing Group

Forklift

Knoxville, TN

$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:

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Aug 12, 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?

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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,509 per year, or $19 per hour.

Waste Water Treatment Plant Operator

City of Sevierville (TN)

Sevierville, TN

$54K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Sevierville is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of sex or handicap in its programs or activities pursuant to Public Law 93-112 or 101-336. The City of Sevierville does not discriminate based on race, color or national origin in federal or state sponsored programs, pursuant to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000d.) The City is a Drug-Free Workplace, and all applicants are subject to a background check, driving history check, and drug testing in accordance with City policy

Description This is specialized and technical work in the operation and maintenance of the wastewater plant. The employee is responsible for the efficient operation of chemical feeders, filters, pumps, electric motors, and other wastewater treatment plant equipment. Assignments are received in the form of oral and written work orders received and based upon standard operating procedures.

Work is reviewed by inspection and observation by the Chief Operator Summary of Duties Monitors treatment equipment, pumps, motors, and process controls. Collects wastewater samples and performs routine laboratory testing. Records operational data and maintains daily logs.

Assists with process adjustments under supervision. Performs housekeeping and preventative maintenance tasks. Inspects equipment and reports malfunctions.

Responds to alarms and emergencies as directed. Complies with all safety procedures and environmental regulations. Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications Graduate from high school or GED, supplemented by specialized technical training in the operation and maintenance of electrical and mechanical equipment related to the operation of a wastewater treatment plant, or any equivalent combination of training and experience. Requires a valid Tennessee driver's license. Obtain a commercial driver's license within one (1) year.

Possess a State Wastewater Operator Certification Grade III or be hired as an Operator Trainee with the ability to obtain Grade III certification within three (3) years of employment. Three (3) years of related experience preferred. Supplemental Information PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Physical demands refers to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.

Perform light to medium work that involves walking or standing virtually all of the time and also involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or considerable skill, adeptness and speed in the use of the fingers, hands or limbs in tasks involving close tolerances or limits of accuracy. Insurance, Retirement and Benefits The City of Sevierville offers a competitive benefits package to all full-time employees. These benefits include paid medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, short-term disability, and paid holidays.

Upon hiring, city employees are automatically enrolled in the TN Consolidated Retirement System. Vacation leave is earned at a rate based on length of service. Sick leave is earned at 1 day per month.

To see the specific benefits for this position, please click on "BENEFITS" at the top of the page. If you have questions about the application process please email Human Resources at acobb@seviervilletn.org.

Apply