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Operator Trainee Jobs in Portland, TN (NOW HIRING)

WebstaurantStore

Operations Leadership Trainee

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$65K/yr

Job Summary The Operations Leadership Trainee is a position which provides the structure, time, and ... Monitor daily, weekly, and monthly metrics for assigned departments; identify and resolve operating ...

Cintas

Management Trainee

Nashville, TN · On-site

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 ...

Cintas

Management Trainee

Nashville, TN

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 ...

GG Media

Management Trainee

Nashville, TN · On-site

As a Management Trainee, you will work closely with experienced team members and leadership while gaining hands-on exposure to the day-to-day operations of the business. Throughout the training ...

Alphabe Insight Inc

Management Trainee

Nashville, TN · On-site

$58K - $63K/yr

As a Management Trainee, you will work closely with experienced team members and leadership while gaining hands-on exposure to the day-to-day operations of the business. Throughout the training ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Portland, TN

Operator Trainee information

See Portland, TN salary details

$23.1K

$39.5K

$57.6K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Portland, TN is $39,509.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,000.00 and $46,300.00 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 cities near Portland, TN are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Portland, TN with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Portland, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,509 per year, or $19 per hour.

Operations Leadership Trainee

Clark Associates

Lebanon, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Clark Associates rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

119th of 427 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Job Summary
The Operations Leadership Trainee is a position which provides the structure, time, and guidance for an individual to learn the various aspects of a WebstaurantStore distribution center, as well as the expectations of our leadership team. The Operations Leadership Trainee is expected to be flexible regarding schedules, available to work on any shift to fill leadership gaps or rotate through departments and shifts to gain a full understanding of the operation. The goal for an Operations Leadership Trainee is to complete the training program and be placed in a permanent leadership position within the facility.
Job Location
1225 Richard Petty Way, Lebanon, TN 37090
We only accept W-2 candidates, H-1B sponsorship is not available.
Responsibilities
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 enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Support the management of day-to-day decisions of the assigned department/shift regarding performance, process and leadership.
  • Learn and understand the process of each department/shift, make connections as to how each department interacts with each other, and identify areas of improvement.
  • Actively engage in leadership discussions and demonstrate the ability to apply WebstaurantStore leadership principles to daily work.
  • Monitor daily, weekly, and monthly metrics for assigned departments; identify and resolve operating issues as needed, including support of corrective actions and progressive discipline process.
  • Interact with employees regularly to promote a high level of engagement and ensure all safety regulations / rules are followed.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Physical Requirements
  • Work is performed while standing and/or walking, up to and including 12 hours/day.
  • Requires the ability to communicate effectively using speech, vision, and hearing.
  • Requires the regular use of hands for simple grasping and fine manipulations.
  • Requires regular bending, squatting, crawling, climbing, and reaching.
  • Requires the ability to regularly lift, carry, push, or pull medium weights, up to 75lbs.

Qualifications
Experience
  • 2 years of relevant experience in management preferred but not required.
  • Experience working in a distribution environment preferred.

Education
This role does not require a degree. We value relevant skills and experience and alignment with our core values above all else.
Desired Traits & Skills
  • Proficiency with MS Office required (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills required.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to explain technical and complex concepts in a simple and concise way to ensure ease of understanding.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to quickly adapt as business needs change; ability to address difficult situations with diplomacy and emotional intelligence.
  • Customer service-oriented attitude with a demonstrated desire to exceed expectations.
  • Ability to work off-shift as required to respond to urgent needs.
  • Service leadership approach with a demonstrated desire to exceed expectations.

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