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Operator Trainee Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator

Modesto, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating other material handling equipment such as Order (Cherry) Picker, Sit-down, Clamp, Electric Pallet Jack is also a plus. Position:1st(First)Shift Forklift Operator Shift:Tues-Fri 6 ...

Forklift Operator

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The position is a combination of equipment operator (30-90% depending on production peak times) but will also require the employee to perform material handling, loose case picking and loading ...

Forklift Operator

Modesto, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating other material handling equipment such as Order (Cherry) Picker, Sit-down, Clamp, Electric Pallet Jack is also a plus. Position:1st (First) Shift Forklift Operator Shift:Tues-Fri ...

Forklift Operator

Modesto, CA

$23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experience operating other material handling equipment such as Order (Cherry) Picker, Sit-down, Clamp, Electric Pallet Jack is also a plus. Position:1st(First)Shift Forklift Operator Shift:Tues-Fri 6 ...

Forklift Operator

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The position is a combination of equipment operator (30-90% depending on production peak times) but will also require the employee to perform material handling, loose case picking and loading ...

Forklift Operator

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The position is a combination of equipment operator (30-90% depending on production peak times) but will also require the employee to perform material handling, loose case picking and loading ...

If you enjoy physical work, staying active, operating a forklift, and working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment , we are looking for you! Schedule Monday - Friday Shift: 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM ...

New

Transload Operator

Stockton, CA · On-site

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Title Transload Operator EOE Statement MHX,LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, veteran status, or on the basis of ...

Forklift Operator

Turlock, CA · On-site

$23.19/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Operator will work in collaboration with other forklift operators, truck drivers, and general laborers in order to achieve performance goals. This individual will work in a team to load and ...

Forklift Operator

Tracy, CA · On-site

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Operator ID: 32865224108 Date Posted: Jul 16, 2026 Date to Apply By: N/A Reports To or Hiring Manager: Antonio Socorro Department: 9234 Shift: Monday - Friday 1:30pm -10pm Grade Level: 5 ...

Be Seen First

Forklift Operator

Gustine, CA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Forklift Operator safely operates industrial vehicles to load, unload, stack, and move materials, products, or freight within a warehouse, production facility, or shipping yard. Primary duties ...

New

Forklift Operator

Tracy, CA

$21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Forklift Operator ID: 32865224376 Date Posted: Jul 16, 2026 Date to Apply By: N/A Reports To or Hiring Manager: Manuel Rocha Department: 9214 Shift: Tuesday - Saturday 4:00am - 12:30pm Grade Level: 5 ...

Showing results 21-40

Operator Trainee information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$26.9K

$45.9K

$67K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Modesto, CA is $45,925.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,800.00 and $53,800.00 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 Modesto, CA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Modesto, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Modesto, CA?

For Operator Trainee jobs in Modesto, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Modesto, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Modesto, CA are:

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,925 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Fleet Maintenance Operations Management Trainee - Atwater, CA

WM

Atwater, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

For United States: WM is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

For Canada: WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation

Waste Management (WM), a Fortune 250 company, is the leading provider of comprehensive waste and environmental services in North America. We are strongly committed to a foundation of operating excellence, professionalism and financial strength. WM serves nearly 25 million customers in residential, commercial, industrial and municipal markets throughout North America through a network of collection operations, transfer stations, landfills, recycling facilities and waste-based energy production projects.

FLEET MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT TRAINEE

Travel is required during the training program.

I. Job Summary
WM (formerly Waste Management) Fleet Maintenance Operational Management Trainee (FOMT) program is a 12-month long course designed to develop individuals into fleet maintenance manager roles. Fleet Maintenance Managers manage the full fleet of primary and secondary equipment and continually focuses on achieving market base profitability through effective management of all fleet and maintenance activities within the assigned area, including cost control, management development, and high training and safety standards. Candidates that successfully complete this program must be willing to relocate within an assigned geographic area to lead a WM Fleet Shop. During this program candidates will be required to travel as most of the curriculum will be on the job training (OJT) in the field with some classroom training. Successful candidates will develop incomparable knowledge of the Fleet Manager role.

II. Duties and Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other minor duties may be assigned.

  • Successfully complete the FOMT curriculum. Complete all required training items through participation in the WM Learning Management System.
  • Responsible for developing the skills to become a Fleet Manager.
  • Completes assigned computer-based training.
  • Attends and participates in all mandatory group training sessions.
  • Develops a working knowledge of WMs Fleet and general business applications.
  • Develop a working knowledge of heavy equipment functionality and maintenance care including actual operation and in-shop maintenance.
  • Learn how to effectively manage site personnel through experiential efforts and training.
  • Develops understanding of financial, accounting, and forecasting processes and systems.
  • Develops a strong understanding and dedication to the WM Safety Program; work with Corporate and local safety teams to continue to create an increasingly aware and observant safety conscious culture.
  • Completes required paperwork utilizing fleet maintenance software program associated with repairing vehicles, documenting parts usage, and accounting for repair times.
  • Participates in worksite meetings, huddles, and area mentor programs.
  • Performs other duties as assigned that may include special projects and interim management assignments. Learning will be very action and experiential based.

III. Supervisory Responsibilities
This job may have periodic leadership / management responsibilities throughout the program.

IV. Qualifications
The requirements listed below are representative of the qualifications necessary to perform the job.

  • A. Education and Experience
  • Education: Bachelor’s Degree (accredited), or in lieu of degree, High School Diploma or GED (accredited) and three (3) years of relevant fleet maintenance work experience on heavy trucks/equipment.
  • Experience: Four (4) years of supervisory/leadership experience in fleet maintenance operations (in addition to education requirements) required

B. Preferred Certificates, Licenses or Registrations

  • Valid Driver’s License
  • ASE Certifications

C. Other Knowledge, Skills or Abilities Required

  • Must be willing to relocate within an assigned geographic area at the conclusion of the training program
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office
  • Must be willing to work various hours and weekends as necessary
  • Must be willing to work outdoors and/or in a maintenance shop
  • Must have excellent verbal and written communications skills
  • Must have exceptional time management and organizational skills
  • Proven problem-solving ability and successful conflict resolution
  • Diesel or CNG Mechanical experience or Technical Drive
  • Strong analytical skills.

V. Essential Functions, Environment and Physical Requirements

While some of the FOMT work is performed within an office atmosphere, field work and frequent field assignments are the core foundation of the FOMT and operations positions. These field assignments will include exposure to the elements, weather, and other non-office type conditions. When conducting field work and assignments one should possess the ability to ascend onto and descend from various pieces of heavy equipment and ride accordingly for many consecutive hours. The FOMT will be exposed to climatic weather as depicted by the geographical region for which you reside or are assigned. A FOMT will also periodically be required to work non-traditional work schedules i.e. 12 hour workdays, some weekends, some early start times etc.

Pay: The expected base pay range for this office/on-site position is $84,700 - $123,000.00. This range represents a good faith
estimate for this position. The specific salary offered to a successful candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors
including the candidate’s relevant experience, education, training, certifications, qualifications, and work location.

Benefits
At Waste Management, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability. As well as a Stock Purchase Plan, Company match on 401K, and more! Our employees also receive Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Personal Days. Please note that benefits may vary by site.

*PLEASE SUBMIT A CURRENT RESUME TO RECIEVE FURTHER CONSIDERATION FOR THIS POSITION.
If this sounds like the opportunity that you have been looking for, please click “Apply.”

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WM logo

About WM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Environmental consulting services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US