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Operator Trainee Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Shakespeare Company LLC

Extrusion Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Trainees generally progress to level 1 in less than 6 months by successfully demonstrating all 23 ... Operators generally advance from level 2 to level 3 in less than 18 months. Level 3 Able to doff ...

TMC Transportation

Yard Instructor

Columbia, SC · On-site

$20 - $25.75/hr

... trainees in a learning environment. Must hold and maintain a valid Class "A" Commercial Drivers License (CDL). Excellent driving record. Prior driving experience. Experience backing and operating a ...

Commercial Metals Company

*Melt Shop Trainee

Cayce, SC · On-site

Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running manufacturing equipment or troubleshooting technical obstacles, at CMC, you'll get the training and ...

Commercial Metals Company

*Melt Shop Trainee

Cayce, SC · On-site

Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running manufacturing equipment or troubleshooting technical obstacles, at CMC, you'll get the training and ...

Jbhunt

Manager Trainee, Summer 2026 Start

Camden, SC · On-site

Manager Trainee, Summer 2026 Start Department: Supply Chain Country: United States of America State/Province: Mississippi City: Jackson Full/Part Time: Full time Job Summary: Under general ...

Circle K Stores, Inc.

QSR Store Manager

Prosperity, SC · On-site

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 ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Machine Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Machine Operator Columbia, SC Watsontown Brick, a division of General Shale Brick, Inc., is seeking a Machine Operator for our Columbia, SC manufacturing facility. This position is responsible for ...

Canfor

Forklift Operator

Camden, SC · On-site

$14 - $16.25/hr

As a Planer Mill Infeed Forklift Operator , you'll be essential in transporting materials and products throughout our sawmill. You'll operate our powerful forklifts and other equipment to move, stack ...

Watsontown Brick

Machine Operator

Columbia, SC

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Machine Operator Columbia, SC Watsontown Brick, a division of General Shale Brick, Inc., is seeking a Machine Operator for our Columbia, SC manufacturing facility. This position is responsible for ...

General Shale Brick, Inc

Machine Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Machine Operator Columbia, SC Watsontown Brick, a division of General Shale Brick, Inc., is seeking a Machine Operator for our Columbia, SC manufacturing facility. This position is responsible for ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Columbia, SC

Operator Trainee information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$20.8K

$35.5K

$51.9K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Columbia, SC is $35,545.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26,900.00 and $41,600.00 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 Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Operator Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,545 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Management Trainee | NOW HIRING

Columbia, SC • On-site

Redis Marketing Inc
Marketing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Redis Marketing Incexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Redis Marketing internally develops each employee on a day-to-day basis. We focus on mentoring, training, and developing each and every one of our employees through an accelerated growth process. Redis is an in-store marketing company that represents the leaders in home entertainment inside the largest retailers in the world. We are passionate about delivering quality and results.

Job Description

Are you a recent college grad or an early career changer in Columbia, SC? We are seeking a collaborative individual who enjoys engaging with customers. Our entry-level management program trainees will learn various business functions, such as operations, marketing, sales and management.

Candidates for our Entry-level Management training program will:

  • Engage with customers through interactive displays and promotions of our clients' products and services.
  • Be responsible for team building by developing and training entry-level representatives.
  • Communicate our clients' promotions and products to their customers in a retail setting.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve customer issues and concerns.
  • Develop and maintain a knowledge base of our clients' evolving products and services.

Our entry-level program allows for you to fully develop your business acumen under the supervision of our Market Director. This approach has shown impressive results, with many of our new managers taking ownership of our client portfolio.

Qualifications

Qualifications for the position include:

  • 2-year Associates or Bachelor's degree preferred
  • Previous experience in customer service, sales, or other related fields is a PLUS
  • Ability to build rapport with clients
  • Self-motivated
  • Positive and professional demeanor
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Additional Information

Benefits:

  • PAID training and development
  • Promotions based on individual performance and results
  • Optional travel opportunity
  • Guaranteed hourly pay + bonuses (PAID WEEKLY)
  • Team-oriented environment
  • Advancement opportunities

Successful entry-level applicants should be high-energy, friendly, conversational, and creative. They should understand the importance of networking and team building to advance their skills and knowledge.

Apply