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Operator Trainee Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

A Driver Trainee will be trained by Republic Services to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) ... greater operating efficiencies across the company while maintaining day-to-day operational ...

Frank Beverage Group is a family-owned and operated beer, wine and spirits distributor who stands ... The Sales Trainee plays a vital role in empowering On Premise and Off Premise sales teams by ...

Frank Beverage Group is a family-owned and operated beer, wine and spirits distributor who stands ... The Sales Trainee plays a vital role in empowering On Premise and Off Premise sales teams by ...

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 ...

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 ...

Perform all assigned activities according to the Standardized Operating Procedures of the company ... Trainee passes final Pre-TDP assessment * Mentor signs training agreement Please note, this is not ...

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... Operating Procedures of the company. Continuously strive to improve the efficiency of the ... Requirements to Qualify for Entry into TDP Mentor agrees to accept trainee Zero unplanned absences ...

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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 May 31, 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 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 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 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 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 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:
2nd Shift CNC Operator Trainee (Dept. 301)

2nd Shift CNC Operator Trainee (Dept. 301)

Milwaukee Valve Co., LLC

Prairie Du Sac, WI

$22.34/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Milwaukee Valve Company is looking for a 2nd Shift CNC Operator Trainee to join our Prairie Du Sac, WI team in Department 301. This position has a starting hourly wage of $22.34 plus a shift premium.

*This position is eligible for a $2,000 sign-on bonus. The first half ($1,000) is payable after successful completion of the orientation period and the second half ($1,000) is payable after one year of employment.*

The regularly scheduled hours for this position are 3:30PM - 12:00AM, Monday through Friday. Overtime may become a possibility or even required. When working overtime, the regularly scheduled shift is adjusted by 1-2 hours at either the beginning or end of the regularly scheduled shift. Overtime may also be requested or mandatory on Saturday as well.

All offers of employment made by Milwaukee Valve are contingent upon successfully completing our required drug screen and physical capabilities tests.

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Established in 1901, Milwaukee Valve manufactures valves for a variety of industries including Industrial, Commercial, Fire Protection, Marine and the dry bulk hauling industries. Our products have been installed on every U.S. Navy ship built for the last 50 years.

Our heritage, our people, and our passion is to be the best, and Milwaukee Valve is proud of its engineering excellence and its employees who take pride and dedication in their work. In return, Milwaukee Valve offers an excellent benefit package, competitive wages, and promotional opportunities including Health, Dental, Life and Disability Insurance options, Flex Spending, 401K with employer match, tuition assistance, paid time off, and shift premiums. For more information, please go to:

Our Homepage
Bronze Foundry Tour
Employee Testimonial Commercial

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Summary: During the approximate 90-day training period the CNC Operator Trainee will be required and responsible for learning the safe operation of CNC machines, how to maintain operations during production runs, obtain general knowledge and ability to read, comprehend and interpret blueprint specifications and the skills to perform the inspection of machined parts by the use general measuring instruments.

Prior machining experience is not required. Personal hand tools and measuring instruments are required after successful training period. Other duties may be assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to help individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education:

  • High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED)

Language Skills:

  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as:
    • Safety policies and rules
    • Operating and maintenance instructions
    • Procedure manuals
    • Ability to communicate effectively

Reasoning Ability:

  • Ability to apply common sense understanding
  • Thoroughly carry out instructions given in any form
  • Ability to deal effectively with routine problems and situations

Mathematical Skills:

  • Basic math ability such as:
    • Addition
    • Subtraction
    • Multiplication
    • Division

Physical Demands:

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
    • Constantly stand, sit, walk lift, carry, and climb ladders throughout the workday
    • Frequently use hands and arms to reach, grasp, manipulate, handle, or feel material
    • Constant use hands and fingers to grasp, pinch, pull, feel, handle, and manipulate parts and tools
    • Frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts
    • Occasional bending
    • Frequent lifting up to 40 lb. unassisted
    • Occasional lifting up to 70lbs unassisted

Work Environment

  • The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
    • Frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles
    • Constant exposure to louder noise levels

Definitions: Constant (5-8 hrs./shift) Frequent (2-5 hrs./shift) Occasional (Up to 2 hrs./shift)