ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operator Trainee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Jackson, TN · On-site

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Kingsport, TN · On-site

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Jackson, TN · On-site

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Knoxville, TN · On-site

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Republic Services

Driver Trainee

Union City, TN

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

Union City, TN · 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 ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 2, 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 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 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 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,509 per year, or $19 per hour.

Management Trainee

Dayton Freight

Jackson, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Dayton Freight rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 366 rated logistics

Job description

Overview

The 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 of a team, expand upon their experience, actively participate in all areas of Dayton Freight's operations, as well as gain knowledge of our Company, culture, and the Transportation Industry. Additionally, the program educates each individual on future-based leadership skills so that upon completion of the 24-weeks, they are confident and competent to take on a management position within our Company.

Responsibilities
  • Learn the LTL Industry
  • Gain experience in the Operation
  • Develop Leadership skills
Qualifications
  • Must possess a valid Bachelor's degree from an accredited college
  • Must be willing to relocate to any Service Center
  • Must be willing to work a rotation of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shift
Benefits
  • Stable and growing organization
  • Fast paced work environment
  • Internal advancement opportunities
  • Competitive weekly pay
  • Modern facilities and technology
  • Unique leadership opportunity
  • Travel
  • Comprehensive benefits package: Health, 401(k), Dental, Vision, AD&D, etc.
  • Paid holidays (8); paid vacation and personal days
Physical DemandsThis position requires the ability to perform a combination of administrative and operational duties in an office and dock environment. Duties may include standing and walking for extended periods, pushing or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with physical dock tasks such as handling freight and related materials.   * 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.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Dayton Freight employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply