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Operator Trainee Jobs in Chester, VA (NOW HIRING)

Arborist Climber Trainee

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)

Arborist Climber Trainee

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working ... Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)

Responsibilities Skill Tiers & Compensation (Hourly) Tier 1 - Entry Level / Trainee: Approximately ... Operator: Approximately $25/hour * Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant ...

Responsibilities Skill Tiers & Compensation (Hourly) Tier 1 - Entry Level / Trainee: Approximately ... Operator: Approximately $25/hour * Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant ...

Skill Tiers & Compensation (Hourly) Tier 1 - Entry Level / Trainee: Approximately $23/hour ... Operator: Approximately $25/hour * Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant ...

Responsibilities Skill Tiers & Compensation (Hourly) Tier 1 - Entry Level / Trainee: Approximately ... Operator: Approximately $25/hour * Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant ...

Responsibilities Skill Tiers & Compensation (Hourly) Tier 1 - Entry Level / Trainee: Approximately ... Operator: Approximately $25/hour * Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant ...

Responsibilities Skill Tiers & Compensation (Hourly) Tier 1 - Entry Level / Trainee: Approximately ... Operator: Approximately $25/hour * Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant ...

Sales Management Trainee

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Management Trainee Program. Whether you see yourself in sales, business development, customer ... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ...

Sales Management Trainee

Mechanicsville, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Management Trainee Program. Whether you see yourself in sales, business development, customer ... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ...

Sales Management Trainee

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Management Trainee Program. Whether you see yourself in sales, business development, customer ... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ...

Sales Management Trainee

Richmond, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Management Trainee Program. Whether you see yourself in sales, business development, customer ... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ...

Sales Management Trainee

Richmond, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Management Trainee Program. Whether you see yourself in sales, business development, customer ... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ...

Sales Management Trainee

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Management Trainee Program. Whether you see yourself in sales, business development, customer ... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ...

Sales Management Trainee

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$56K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Management Trainee Program. Whether you see yourself in sales, business development, customer ... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ...

Showing results 21-40

Operator Trainee information

See Chester, VA salary details

$23.5K

$40.1K

$58.4K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Chester, VA is $40,058.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,400.00 and $46,900.00 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 Chester, VA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Chester, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Chester, VA?

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

What cities near Chester, VA are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Chester, VA with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Arborist Climber Trainee

Bartlett Tree Experts

Richmond, VA • On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Bartlett Tree Experts rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 36 rated gardening and landscaping


Job description

If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a career with Bartlett Tree Experts! At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development.

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working alongside Bartlett's dedicated team of arborists, gaining practical field experience in scientific tree and shrub care on commercial and residential properties. This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on, on-the-job training.


We offer competitive compensation, as well as:

  • A safety-first culture and professional workplace
  • Advancement opportunities - we promote from within
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Industry credential/license pay increases - we encourage and invest in your professional development
  • Company provided uniforms, PPE, gear, and equipment
  • Boot reimbursement up to $150
  • Employee referral bonus program
  • Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the Bartlett Tree Experts Research Laboratories in Charlotte, NC

To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on Instagram @LifeatBartlett. 


As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will play an important role in:

  • Learning through on-the-job training to safely perform all aspects of arboriculture, including:
    • Tree climbing
    • Pruning
    • Rigging
    • Cabling and bracing
    • Removal of hazardous trees
    • Tree identification
    • Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)
    • Implementing work zone safety procedures
    • Assisting Arborist Climbers and Arborist Crew Leaders working on the ground and aloft
    • Assisting with driving, backing, dumping, and parking duties
  • Learning, understanding, and adhering to all safety rules and company safety policies

  • A passion for nature, the environment, and the outdoors
  • Interest in working outdoors year-round in all weather conditions
  • Valid driver's license
  • A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work on a multi-disciplinary team
  • Prior tree care, landscaping, forestry, turf care, or horticulture experience is preferred but not required
  • Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture or a related field is preferred but not required

The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.


Richmond
VA
Production Arborist
7/31/2026
Regular Full-Time

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