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Operator Trainee Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Dayton Freight

Sales Management Trainee

Hampshire, IL

$60K/yr

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 ...

Dayton Freight

Sales Management Trainee

Hampshire, IL

$60K/yr

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 ...

Dayton Freight

Sales Management Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

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 ...

Dayton Freight

Sales Management Trainee

Hampshire, IL · On-site

$60K/yr

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 ...

Red Bull

Sales Trainee

Arlington Heights, 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 ...

Red Bull

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 ...

Red Bull

Sales Trainee

Arlington Heights, 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 ...

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All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Elgin, IL

Operator Trainee information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.8K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Elgin, IL is $43,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,400.00 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, 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 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.

How to become an operator with no experience?

To become an operator trainee with no experience, individuals should focus on gaining basic technical skills, such as understanding machinery and safety procedures, often through vocational training or certification programs. Entry-level positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent, and on-the-job training is typically provided to develop specific operational skills and knowledge of equipment.

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 role of an operator trainee?

An operator trainee is an entry-level worker who learns to operate machinery or equipment under supervision. They typically receive on-the-job training, may need to obtain relevant certifications, and develop skills in safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and operational protocols to become fully qualified operators.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2000 a day typically include specialized roles such as high-level consultants, surgeons, or senior executives, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, or extensive experience. Certain freelance or contract positions in fields like software development, engineering, or finance may also reach this level with significant expertise and workload. These roles usually involve demanding schedules and high responsibility.

What jobs make 5000 a week without a degree?

Operator Trainees typically do not earn $5,000 a week without additional experience or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include specialized trades such as commercial pilots, certain sales roles, or skilled trades like elevator installers, but these usually require specific training or licenses. Most roles paying this much weekly are either highly skilled, commission-based, or require significant experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Elgin, IL? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Elgin, IL? For Operator Trainee jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Elgin, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,030 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
System Operator - Water/Wastewater Utility

System Operator - Water/Wastewater Utility

Essential Utilities, Inc.

Poplar Grove, IL • On-site

$26.36/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Aqua, an Essential Utilities company, employs people in a variety of roles within our eight-state footprint, ranging from field workers and customer service representatives who are on the front lines working with customers, to scientists and engineers who help ensure we're delivering reliable water and wastewater services to our communities. If you're looking for a rewarding career helping improve our environment and protect our natural resources, we encourage you to join our team!
About Essential Utilities
Essential Utilities, Inc. delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities.
Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. We are committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status - including a competitive and comprehensive benefits package as well as a commitment to career growth opportunities.
We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.
Our company is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S.
Are you looking for a fantastic career at Aqua? We have a great opportunity for a Systems Operator in the Candlewick/Poplar Grove area. Under the direction of the Field Supervisor, this person will be responsible for performing tasks related to the installation, operation, and maintenance of equipment for our water & wastewater treatment facilities in the area; this person will also assist with customer service as well.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
  • Operate / maintain the facilities & equipment related to the wastewater treatment lagoons, lift stations, collection systems, and spray irrigation consisting of fixed sprinklers with pop-up heads for land application of wastewater effluent(s).
  • Operate / maintain the facilities & equipment related to the water treatment plant, well facilities, pumping, and storage facilities (as needed).
  • Operate / maintain the vehicles & equipment used in the water and wastewater facilities.
  • Perform / record inspections & tests on the systems' and facilities' operations; this involves reviewing the associated data.
  • Collect, analyze, and record water & wastewater samples for regulatory compliance as well as process control monitoring for proper operation of the systems.
  • Prepare reports required by the Company, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency [IEPA], the Illinois Commerce Commission, or other jurisdictional entities.
  • Respond to customer service, water distribution, and/or collection system work orders.
  • Assists with other tasks or projects, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Possess a High School Diploma (or Equivalent).
  • Professional experience working with industrial mechanical systems and/or pumps is preferred.
  • Experience working in a Utility environment, especially with Waste Water or Water treatment, is preferred.
  • Must possess a valid U.S. Driver's Operator's License; CDL is a plus!

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills; this person will need to be able to communicate effectively (clearly, concisely, and professionally) with internal customers.
  • Strong customer service skills.
  • Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to readily read, understand, and accurately follow operating instructions (both written & verbal).
  • Possess the mathematical ability to perform calculations which determine various ratios, dosages, and volumetric calculations that are required for the operation of the Wastewater Treatment Plants and Water Systems.
  • Computer literate with computer database tools as well as the ability to operate plant processes through computer-controlled equipment.

WORKING CONDITIONS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • May be subject to extreme temperatures, noise, wet and/or humid conditions, mechanical, electrical, gas exposure hazards, fumes, dusts, mists, gases and /or poor ventilation atmospheric conditions
  • Must be able to lift and move equipment in excess of 50lbs and the ability to work in confined spaces; a lift test will be required at part of employment for this position.
  • Working condition include travel to work sites of Essential Utilities and/or other constituents.
  • Company vehicle is provided for business purposes only.
  • This position participates in a weekly on-call rotating schedule to adequately staff a 24 hour/7-day operation.
  • This position will transition to a Tuesday-Saturday once 6 month training has been completed.

***This is a union position. Starting wage for a System Operator Trainee is $26.36. Employees may receive a higher starting wage if they have the applicable water/wastewater license for the job classification. All employees hired or entering the bargaining unit on or after Jan 1, 2023 will receive three dollars ($3.00) per hour less than the classification wage rate. The wage reduction will be returned in one-dollar ($1.00) increases once a year over a three (3) year period. Employee will receive annual contract increases.
Candidates who have a certification/license are eligible for an increase in pay and higher level position.
-System Operator I: Wastewater Certificate IV - Water Class D license
-System Operator II: Wastewater Certificate IV - Water Class C license
-System Operator III: Wastewater Certificate IV - Water Class B/A license
Aqua, an Essential Utilities company is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. Equal employment opportunity is provided to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to the following legally protected characteristics: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions, including medical conditions related to lactation), physical or mental disability, covered-veteran status, genetic information (including testing and characteristics), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state or federal law.
Aqua is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you have a condition that may prevent you from applying for a job online or need to request an accommodation during the interview process, please call (1-877-271-9012).
To maintain the integrity of the recruitment process and to avoid real or perceived conflicts of interest due to employment and/or assignment of family members and personal referrals, specific guidelines apply to the hiring and assignment of these individuals including, but not limited to:
  • Family members cannot result in a supervisor/subordinate reporting relationship
  • Family members cannot work in the same department.

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