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Operator Trainee Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

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Operator Trainee information

See Madison, WI salary details

$25.7K

$43.9K

$64K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Madison, WI is $43,869.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,300.00 and $51,400.00 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 Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Madison, WI are:

What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,869 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Street Machine Operator 1 (Trainee Eligible)*

Madison, City of (WI)

Madison, WI • On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

General Description This is responsible work in the operation of trucks and related mechanical equipment associated with Streets Division maintenance and repair programs and services. Work involves heavy manual labor. Under general supervision, employees follow established routines and procedures as directed.

The designation of Street Machine Operator Trainee will be given to a selected candidate who does not possess a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or who otherwise lacks all minimum qualifications for the Street Machine Operator 1 classification. A Trainee who does not have a valid CDL at the time of hire will be designated as Trainee Level 1; A Trainee who has a valid CDL at the time of hire will be designated as Trainee Level 2. Trainees will participate in a structured 12- to 15-month training program.

Upon successful completion of the program and attainment of all required qualifications, the employee will be reclassified to Street Machine Operator 1. A selected candidate who possesses a valid CDL and meets all of the minimum qualifications for the Street Machine Operator 1 classification will be hired as a Street Machine Operator 1; to be determined at the time of hire. Starting pay for Street Machine Operator Trainee Level 1 (Public Works Laborer classification) will be $48,623.38 per year

Starting pay for Street Machine Operator Trainee Level 2 (Street and Sewer Maintenance Worker 1 classification) will be $57,862.22 per year. Starting pay for Street Machine Operator 1 will be $60,392.28 per year. Employees in this position will be expected to show up for 50% or more of overtime snow and ice shifts

Employees could be expected to work overnight shifts (11:00 pm to 7:00 am) from Sunday evening through Friday morning during the months of December, January, and February. Outside of the Winter months, regular work hours are 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. Current recruitment is to fill nine (9) vacant positions An eligible list will be created from this recruitment to fill any future vacancies that may occur in this classification in the next six (6) months APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL THE CLOSING DATE.

HOWEVER, THE SELECTION PROCESS MAY BEGIN PRIOR TO THE CLOSING DATE BASED UPON THE NEEDS OF THE STREETS DIVISION. Employees may be eligible for loan forgiveness through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Black, Indigenous, people of color, women, trans, nonbinary, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

We value the unique blend of lived experiences and diverse perspectives that comes from non-traditional education pathways and the variety of transferrable skills each candidate brings to the table. We value diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Even if every item on the job posting doesn't match your experience perfectly, we encourage you to apply and share how your skills and experience can best serve our community.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities General Equipment Operation Operate automated refuse and recycling trucks. Operate semi-automated and rear-loading trucks engaged in the collection of solid waste, recycling, brush, and street maintenance on a daily basis. Operate pick-ups and jeeps with pushers or plows attached during seasonal leaf collection and snow removal.

Operate small gas-powered tools. Operate other similar equipment as assigned. Lead the work of hourly laborers when assigned together.

Snow and Ice Equipment Operation Operate snow plowing trucks and spreading equipment during snow and ice operations. Operate snow removal and maintenance equipment including 1-ton and 5-ton trucks with front plows, wing plows, salting inserts, haul trucks, hand shovels, and snow blowers. After training, follow all application guidelines related to the City's salt reduction efforts.

Perform other related work as required Minimum Qualifications To be hired as a Street Machine Operator Trainee: Three (3) months of experience as a City of Madison seasonal laborer and eligible for rehire. -OR- Six (6) months of equivalent public works, landscaping, or construction experience including varied manual tasks. To be hired as a Street Machine Operator 1: One (1) year of experience in the operation of large vehicles such as dump trucks and/or recycling or refuse trucks.

-OR- Six (6) months of experience performing heavy manual or maintenance work, including or supplemented by three (3) months of experience with the City of Madison Streets Division. If an applicant does not possess the experience listed above, HR will review the application materials to determine if the applicant possesses the following equivalent experience: Familiarity with the following: Principles of automotive operation, including large trucks and the laws and ordinances regulating such operation. Tools, methods, and materials commonly used in street repair and maintenance activities.

Related safety precautions. Engaging in strenuous physical labor such as lifting, raking, and shoveling on a repetitive basis and to perform such work in adverse weather conditions. Minor repairs and adjustments to the equipment.

Following oral and written instructions. Operating a two-way radio equipment and following route maps. Communicating effectively both orally and in writing.

Operating various types of directly related (greater than one ton) automotive equipment in a safe and effective manner. The City of Madison strives to provide exceptional customer service to all its residents and visitors. Therefore, successful candidates will have demonstrated ability to work effectively with multicultural communities.

For a complete list of the knowledge, skills and abilities, please view the class specification. Special Requirements To be hired as a Street Machine Operator 1: Possession of a valid Class B Wisconsin Commercial Driver's License as of the start date of employment. To be hired as a Street Machine Operator Trainee: Possession of a valid Class B Wisconsin Commercial Driver's Permit.

The successful candidate must have passed the written portion of the relevant Department of Transportation testing process before starting employment. A condition of continued employment is passage of the skills portion of the test and obtaining the required operator's license within a specified timeframe. Applicant's Driving Record An applicant's driving record will be evaluated.

Any one of the items listed below will disqualify an applicant from further consideration: Six (6) or more points against an applicant's driving license Conviction for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in the past five (5) years One (1) operating while intoxicated (OWI) conviction against a driver's CDL One (1) revocation within the last 12 months Four (4) or more moving violations within the last five (5) years (including at least 1 moving violation in the last 2 years) If an applicant has held a driver's license in another state in the past five (5) years, the applicant must provide a copy of their driving record abstract from that state. Physical Requirements: Employees in this position must be able to lift/carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds frequently and must be capable of lifting 100 pounds maximum weight. In addition, they must be able to frequently bend, twist, squat, climb, and reach for extended periods of time.

This position requires a high percentage of work outdoors in all types of weather. *Payroll title for these positions will be either Street Machine Operator 1, Street and Sewer Maintenance Worker 1, or Public Works Laborer