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Operator Trainee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Sales 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 ...

Driver Class B Trainee

Elgin, IL · On-site

$15.65 - $36.35/hr

Safety-Kleen in Elgin, IL is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Safety-Kleen in Elgin, IL is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Safety-Kleen in Elgin, IL is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Safety-Kleen in Elgin, IL is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

This is a training role that is made to prepare the Sales Trainee for the Account Sales Manager role. The role primarily is to support sales initiatives and provide route coverage for the ASM during ...

Sales Trainee

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$17.84 - $26.76/hr

This is a training role that is made to prepare the Sales Trainee for the Account Sales Manager role. The role primarily is to support sales initiatives and provide route coverage for the ASM during ...

This is a training role that is made to prepare the Sales Trainee for the Account Sales Manager role. The role primarily is to support sales initiatives and provide route coverage for the ASM during ...

Sales Trainee

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$17.84 - $26.76/hr

This is a training role that is made to prepare the Sales Trainee for the Account Sales Manager role. The role primarily is to support sales initiatives and provide route coverage for the ASM during ...

This is a training role that is made to prepare the Sales Trainee for the Account Sales Manager role. The role primarily is to support sales initiatives and provide route coverage for the ASM during ...

This is a training role that is made to prepare the Sales Trainee for the Account Sales Manager role. The role primarily is to support sales initiatives and provide route coverage for the ASM during ...

The Management Trainee will work closely with experienced managers to learn about Outside Sales, Production/Warehouse Management, Office Management, Service Management and ultimately prepare you for ...

The Management Trainee will work closely with experienced managers to learn about Outside Sales, Production/Warehouse Management, Office Management, Service Management and ultimately prepare you for ...

TRAINING The Sales Trainee (ST) is a training role. Upon successful participation in the training program, the ST is eligible to interview for open Account Sales Manager (ASM) roles. Upon completion ...

TRAINING The Sales Trainee (ST) is a training role. Upon successful participation in the training program, the ST is eligible to interview for open Account Sales Manager (ASM) roles. Upon completion ...

TRAINING The Sales Trainee (ST) is a training role. Upon successful participation in the training program, the ST is eligible to interview for open Account Sales Manager (ASM) roles. Upon completion ...

TRAINING The Sales Trainee (ST) is a training role. Upon successful participation in the training program, the ST is eligible to interview for open Account Sales Manager (ASM) roles. Upon completion ...

Showing results 21-40

Operator Trainee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$26.3K

$44.8K

$65.4K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Chicago, IL is $44,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $52,500.00 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,843 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Sales Management Trainee

Dayton Freight

Des Plaines, IL

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 hours ago


Dayton Freight rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 362 rated logistics


Job description

Overview

The Sales 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 sales position within our Company.

Responsibilities
  • Learn the LTL Industry
  • Gain experience in the Operation
  • Develop Leadership skills
  • Develop Sales knowledge
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 (during training)
Benefits
  • Stable and growing organization
  • Fast-paced work environment
  • Internal advancement opportunities
  • Competitive weekly pay
  • Modern facilities and technology
  • Unique training opportunity
  • Travel
  • Comprehensive benefits package: Health, 401(k), Dental, Vision, AD&D, etc.
  • Paid holidays (8); paid vacation and personal days

Starting Pay: $60,000 per year.  This amount reflects total compensation (base + bonus). 

Pay does vary depending on relevant industry experience.

Transportation, LTL, Freight, Management, Leadership, management training, trainee, training, servant leadership, culture, great company, college, college degree, supervisor, manager supervising, supervisor training, development, team development, Manager Training, manager trainee, manager, dock, supervisor, supervising, operations, degree

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Dayton Freight employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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