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Operator Trainee Jobs in Northport, AL (NOW HIRING)

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various operating equipment in the area. Learns and/or knows how to access Safety Data Sheet Information. Responds to callouts and emergency situations.

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various operating equipment in the area. * Learns and/or knows how to access Safety Data Sheet Information. * Responds to callouts and emergency situations.

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Provides feedback to the Console Operator when lighting the heaters in the field. • Works to positively address any operating or personnel issues that arise. • Must learn to isolate and prepare ...

... Management Trainee Program. Whether you see yourself in sales, business development, customer ... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ...

... Management Trainee Program. Whether you see yourself in sales, business development, customer ... operating the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands through its ...

Sales Agent Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Sales Agent Trainee Number of Openings: 1 Territory Sales Position Available Break Into Sales with Purpose Looking to launch your career in a role where your results directly impact your paycheck. At ...

Production Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$13.50 - $17/hr

TAMKO is seeking a Production Trainee at our manufacturing facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Summary ... Language Skills - Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and ...

Production Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL

$13.50 - $17/hr

TAMKO is seeking a Production Trainee at our manufacturing facility in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Summary ... Language Skills - Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Operator Trainee information

See Northport, AL salary details

$24K

$40.9K

$59.7K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Northport, AL is $40,935.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $48,000.00 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 Northport, AL?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Northport, AL are:

What cities near Northport, AL are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Northport, AL with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Northport, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,935 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Operator Trainee

Hunt

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Responds to callouts and emergency situations, including participating in emergency drills and learning safety procedures.

  • Assists with troubleshooting, monitoring, and maintaining unit operations, including sampling, adjusting process conditions, and performing routine maintenance tasks.

  • Communicates shift activities, process variations, and safety information to team members and supervisors.


Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Safety:
Follows all company safety policies and procedures.
Participates in Emergency Drill Parties.
Learns and/or knows Hunt Refining Company's safety policies and their use in all work activities (Example- LOTO).
Learns and/or knows locations of fire monitors, extinguishers, hose reels, fire hydrants, emergency showers, eye wash station, self-contained breathing apparatus and any other safety related items.
Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various process streams and chemicals used.
Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various operating equipment in the area.
Learns and/or knows how to access Safety Data Sheet Information.
Responds to callouts and emergency situations.
Helps keep the unit and equipment clean and hazard free.
Learns to become proficient with all power failure procedures.
Learns to become proficient with all field related emergency procedures.
Communication:
Gives their relief a concise, accurate verbal summary of what happened on the shift and anything that may require attention, including MOC's and all applicable training. Asks adequate questions, if receiving shift turnover, to verify understanding before reporting for duty.
Gives and receives verbal, written and electronic communication effectively and in a positive manner.
Communicates clearly, precisely, and effectively over the radio.
Checks email periodically throughout the shift.
Reads and follows all applicable guidelines or procedures including MOC's and all applicable training.
Reviews unit operation from previous shifts by reading logs and electronic communication.
Communicates any process variations which affect other areas.
Records daily activities and adjustments in the electronic log as required.


Procedures and Training:
Stays up to date with online EHS training, refresher training on procedures, security training, etc.
Learns and/or knows location of all written policies and procedures and Company documents that pertain to the area on the Company Intranet.
Continually improves process and safety knowledge.
Learns and/or knows equipment descriptions and their locations.
Supports and participates as needed with OJT and any training in their Unit Processing area.
Operational Area:
Responds to callouts and emergency situations.
Learns and/or knows Unit trips, set points, and permissives to restart the after a safety system is activated.
Assists the Console Operator and Unit Leader in troubleshooting activities.
Minimizes hydrocarbon and excess water to water treatment plant.
Seeks clarification when guidelines and procedures are unclear or in conflict with other instructions.
Diligently works toward meeting guideline targets and refinery goals.
Ensures unit and equipment are operated within specified limits.
Performs any task requested by supervision.
Writes work orders as needed and notifies the Unit Leader.
Learns and/or understands the safe heater lighting steps and BMS panel operation and trips for all heaters. Provides feedback to the Console Operator when lighting the heaters in the field.
Works to positively address any operating or personnel issues that arise.
Must learn to isolate and prepare all field equipment for maintenance.
Performs needed maintenance on shift as necessary.
Obtains samples for the lab as necessary.
Routinely samples process gases for H2S.
Makes routine field adjustments to maintain process conditions, flows, levels, pressures, and temperatures.
Takes inventory of lube oil and chemicals and orders as needed.
Blows down level glasses or float chambers, to check a level.
Checks the cooling tower screens and have cleaned as necessary.
Adjusts the boiler's continuous blow down line and daily performs a manual blow down.
Maintains the given injection rate of chemicals into the process streams.
Monitors lab reports and sets and maintains chemical addition or proper treatment of boiler feed water and cooling tower water.
Checks steam traps, steam tracing, and water for proper winterization.
Check color on product streams as necessary.
Monitors fin-fans for freeze protection in cold weather.
Controls the level of water or hydrocarbon accumulation by periodic draining.
Switches pumps, purges or switches compressors online without interruption of the process when necessary.
Starts/stops or resets electric motors as necessary.
Puts control valve on bypass as necessary.
Performs heater activities such as using snuffing steam to purging heaters, lighting gas pilots and burners, adjusting primary and secondary air registers, adjusting dampers for fuel efficiency, using O2 analyzer to adjust for best efficiency, and inspecting heater boxes for flame impingement or possible tube damage.
Checks DCS indications against local instruments to verify readings.
Takes inventory of Nitrogen (N2) bottles and reports what is needed to Unit Leader (does not apply to C&R employees).
Bypasses water softener system when necessary (does not apply to C&R or Oil Movement employees).
Lines up city water and well water as necessary (does not apply to C&R or Oil Movement employees).
Lights and adjusts steam to the flare and checks K/O drums for proper operation and drainage as necessary.
Lines up charge tanks and product rundown to various product tanks and lines up slop lines if necessary.
Establishes alternate cooling in the glycol circulation system for compressor cooling, as necessary (Does not apply to C&R employees).
Must be able to troubleshoot all treated water fixed equipment.
Checks operating equipment for any abnormal conditions as it relates to the following: Pumps: noise, temperature, discharge pressure, vibration, seal leaks, lubrication, seal flush, bearings; Compressors: noise, temperature, discharge pressure, vibration, lubrication, packing, and cooling system; Fans: noise, temperature, vibration, lubrication, bearing, and belts. Reports anything abnormal to Unit Leader.


Education and Qualifications
High School diploma or equivalent.
Capable of performing basic maintenance tasks.
Must have the initiative to work toward refinery goals.
Demonstrates ability to troubleshoot operations problems.
Has a good working relationship with Unit Leaders, Console and Field Operators, Operations Specialists, Shift Superintendents Area Superintendents, and Engineers.


Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Valid Driver's License
Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Computer Skills
Demonstrates basic knowledge of Microsoft Office
Proficiently utilizes and navigates software required to complete the daily, routine business of HRC


Physical Demands
The physical demands of this position are listed in the following tables:
Amount of Time
Under
1/3 to
Over
None
1/3
2/3
2/3
Stand
X
Walk
X
Sit
X
Use hands to finger, handle, or feel
X
Reach with hands and arms
X
Climb or balance
X
Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
X
Talk or hear
X
Taste or smell
X
Amount of Time
Lifting:
Under
1/3 to
Over
None
1/3
2/3
2/3
Up to 10 pounds
X
Up to 25 pounds
X
Up to 50 pounds
X
Up to 100 pounds
X
More than 100 pounds
X
This position requires the individual to be certified to use respiratory protection which includes: fresh air work requiring a full-face mask and a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) weighing up to 35 lbs. Conditions during use could be routine maintenance or operations activities, emergency rescue or immediate danger of life and health. Use of such a device requires sufficient pulmonary and respiratory health and may preclude full beards or other obstructions preventing an adequate facial fit.
Work Environment
The environmental conditions for this position are listed in the following table:
Amount of Time
Under
1/3 to
Over
None
1/3
2/3
2/3
Wet or humid conditions (non-weather)
X
Work near moving mechanical parts
X
Work in high, precarious places
X
Flammable or caustic chemicals
X
Outdoor weather conditions
X
Extreme hot/cold (weather related)
X
Extreme cold (non-weather)
X
Extreme heat (non-weather)
X
Risk of electrical shock
X
Work with explosives
X
Risk of radiation
X
Vibration
X
Noise - This position requires work in loud, high noise areas.

#LI-HuntRefining : Hunt Refining Company