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Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bertelsmann

Flat Cutter Operator

Berryville, VA · On-site

Join us and be part of our story-apply today! We're looking for a Flat Cutter Operator Trainee to join our Bindery team! In this role, you'll learn to operate and maintain flat cutter equipment ...

Hydromax USA

Technician Trainee - Water

Henrico, VA

$20 - $23/hr

Technician Trainee - Water Location: Henrico County, Virginia Compensation: $20 - $23 per hour ... Perform repairs on fire hydrants and water main valve operating nuts. * Maintain open and effective ...

Circle K Stores, Inc.

Subway Trainee Manager

Wytheville, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $18.50/hr

After a designated period of training, the Restaurant Manager Trainee (RMT) may be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a designated Company operated Restaurant for a period of no ...

Reece Group

Management Trainee

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

The Trainee will be cross-trained in core business functions to include, but not limited to ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

McDonald's

Manager Trainee

South Boston, VA · On-site

$16/hr

Manager Trainee (Shift Manager Track) - Starting at $16/hr with Open Availability + QSR Experience ... Franchisee Notice This position is with a restaurant owned and operated by an independent ...

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Operator Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$43.2K

$63K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Virginia is $43,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,700.00 and $50,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Virginia? For Operator Trainee jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Operator Trainee jobs near you

Wastewater Treatment Operator Trainee

City of Hopewell, VA

Hopewell, VA • On-site

$40.80K - $54.06K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Salary: $40,802.69 - $54,063.57 Annually
Location : City of Hopewell, VA
Job Type: Regular Full-Time
Job Number: HWR111324
Department: Hopewell Water Renewal
Opening Date: 11/13/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
Performs intermediate technical work learning to operate and maintain wastewater treatment plant equipment, performing routine tests, performing general plant and grounds maintenance tasks, and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under moderate supervision.
Examples of Duties
  • Makes tours of plant and checks engines, generators, pumps, aerators, tanks, filters, clarifiers and other equipment for proper functioning.
  • Operates and maintains wastewater equipment used in treatment and solids handling including operating multiple hearth furnaces and ash handling processes.
  • Performs assigned tasks related to permits and regulatory compliance including documentation, sampling, analysis, recordkeeping, and reports; maintains and checks logs and records for accuracy and completeness.
  • Checks and records readings from meters, gauges, and instruments; operates handheld meters; reads and records data on plant operations.
  • Pumps sludge, rakes bar screen; cleans and clears basins, troughs, etc.
  • Checks machinery and pumps for proper operation.
  • Starts, stops, and/or adjusts motors, pumps, and other plant equipment according to changes in operating conditions.
  • Adds chemicals per prescribed standards.
  • Observes and collects samples of wastewater effluent; performs simple biological, chemical, and physical laboratory tests; enters test results.
  • Skims grease from settling tanks.
  • Performs minor equipment adjustments and repairs.

Typical Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or GED and minimal experience in the operation and maintenance of machinery and equipment, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Licenses and/or Certifications:
  • Valid driver's license in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
  • Obtain a Class IV Wastewater Works Operator license within eighteen months of hire.
  • Obtain 20 hours of operations specific (ex. Sacramento courses, DEQ, Rural Water, etc.), City, and Safety training.
  • Obtain Forklift Operator training within one year of hire.

Knowledge:
  • Some knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a wastewater treatment plant.
  • Some knowledge of hydraulic, chemical, and mechanical principles pertinent to wastewater treatment plant operations.
  • Some knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and of the necessary safety precautions.

Skills:
  • Skill in the use and care of hand tools.

Abilities:
  • Ability to pass a red and green color blindness test and to work with hazardous chemicals.
  • Ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and to determine proper remedial measures.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to read meters and charts accurately and to maintain records of shift operations.

Supplemental Information
Work Environment:
  • Worker is exposed to outdoor weather conditions, extreme noise, odors, heights, dust and/or fumes and hazardous materials such as oil, chlorine gas, ammonia, fluoride caustic soda, and sulfuric acid.
Essential Physical Activities:
  • Stooping, crouching, walking, pulling, lifting, grasping, hearing, seeing up close, kneeling, reaching, pushing, talking, standing, finger movement, depth perception.
  • Typical weight handled: up to 50lbs

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