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Operator Trainee Jobs in Portland, TN (NOW HIRING)

Graybar

Sales Trainee

Nashville, TN

$24/hr

As a Sales Trainee, you will learn the electrical distribution business and Graybar's sales process through a mix of formal training sessions and hands-on learning. Our Sales Trainees are exposed to ...

Graybar

Sales Trainee

Nashville, TN · On-site

$24/hr

As a Sales Trainee, you will learn the electrical distribution business and Graybar's sales process through a mix of formal training sessions and hands-on learning. Our Sales Trainees are exposed to ...

Hood Distribution

Manager Trainee

Antioch, TN

$48K - $56K/yr

The Hood Distribution Management Trainee program is designed to expose our future leaders to the wide array of products, markets, customers, and management styles that exist throughout our ...

Hood Distribution

Manager Trainee

Antioch, TN · On-site

The Hood Distribution Management Trainee program is designed to expose our future leaders to the wide array of products, markets, customers, and management styles that exist throughout our ...

Hood Distribution

Manager Trainee

Antioch, TN

$48K - $56K/yr

The Hood Distribution Management Trainee program is designed to expose our future leaders to the wide array of products, markets, customers, and management styles that exist throughout our ...

Western Express

Management Trainee

Nashville, TN · On-site

As a Freight Management Trainee, you will train across various roles within the operation, with a primary focus on driver management and customer support. This position prepares you to cover absences ...

True North Group LLC.

Sales Agent Trainee

Madison, TN · 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 ...

True North Group LLC.

Sales Agent Trainee

Madison, TN · On-site

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 ...

Western Express, Inc.

Management Trainee

Nashville, TN · On-site

As a Freight Management Trainee, you will train across various roles within the operation, with a primary focus on driver management and customer support. This position prepares you to cover absences ...

True North Group LLC.

Sales Agent Trainee

Mount Juliet, TN · 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 ...

CarMax, Inc.

Sales Consultant Trainee

Madison, TN · On-site

$20/hr

Position Overview As a Sales Consultant Trainee, you will be the foundation of an iconic, customer-first experience at CarMax. Your mission is to build genuine relationships, understand customer ...

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Showing results 41-60

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.

Sales Trainee

Graybar

Nashville, TN

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Graybar rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 366 rated logistics

Job description

Make a difference.

As a Sales Trainee, you will learn the electrical distribution business and Graybar's sales process through a mix of formal training sessions and hands-on learning. Our Sales Trainees are exposed to all areas of our business and are given the opportunity to receive specialized training and are provided a great overview of our industry before transitioning into a sales role.

In this role you will:

  • Learn Graybar's sales and distribution process

  • Develop product knowledge of electrical, communications, and security equipment

  • Rotate through different areas of the business including sales, logistics, customer service, transactional and project processes

What you bring to the table:

  • Ability to drive and operate a motor vehicle with a valid driver's license

  • Ability to work independently and within a team

  • Highly effective interpersonal and communication skills

  • 2 or 4-year degree or equivalent work experience

Shift and Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm.

Compensation Details: The expected starting rate of pay for this position is $24.00 per hour, depending on experience

TheValue of Graybar:

At Graybar, we are known for our comprehensive benefits and our employee stock ownership plan! Most regular, full-time employees at Graybar may be eligible for a variety of benefits like:

  • Multiple plan options for Medical, Dental, Vision,and Prescription Drugbenefits.

  • Life Insurance coverage for you and options for your family.

  • Save on expenses with Flexible Spending Accounts.

  • Enjoy our Disability Benefitsat no cost to you.

  • Share in our success with Profit Sharing Plans.

  • 401(k) Savings Planwith company match to help secure your future.

  • Paid Vacation& Sick Daysto spend time away from work or in case of an illness.

  • Rest and recharge during our Paid Holidaysthroughout the year.

  • Take advantage of our Paid Wellness Dayto focus on preventive care and prioritize your health.

  • Volunteer with Community Time Offto give back to the community.

  • Predictable Work Schedulesto plan your life: no weekends or nights for most roles.

  • Celebrate your and others' achievements with our Employee Recognition Program.

  • Reach your career goals with our Educational Reimbursement and Career Development Programs.

  • And More Perksthat support your well-being and career growth.

Benefit eligibility may vary across locations and roles, so be sure to check in with your recruiter for more information.

Why should you join Graybar?

At Graybar, our employees are the heart and soul of our company. We believe that employees with diverse perspectives bring the ideas and innovative thinking we need to solve our biggest challenges and compete in an ever-changing world. Consistent with our values, we welcome people from all backgrounds, cultures and experiences into our company because we believe it's the right thing to do and the right way to run our business.
We want each of our employees to know that they matter and to feel a sense of belonging, ownership and inclusion at Graybar. We believe that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect, and we work to build a collaborative environment where our employees have the opportunity to grow, learn and make a difference, both as individuals and as part of the team.

That's what our employee ownership culture is all about: working as one team and moving forward together, while honoring the unique value each person brings to our company.

Apply now and find out what's next for you.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Vet/Disabled

Not the right fit? Let us know you're interested in a future opportunity by clicking Introduce Yourself in the top-right corner of the page or create an account to set up email alerts as new job postings become available that meet your interest!

What Graybar employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Graybar logo

About Graybar

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Graybar, our employees are the heart and soul of our company. We believe that employees with diverse perspectives bring the ideas and innovative thinking we need to solve our biggest challenges and compete in an ever-changing world. Consistent with our values, we welcome people from all backgrounds, cultures and experiences into our company because we believe it's the right thing to do and the right way to run our business.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1869

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