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Operator Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Westrock

Folder Operator Trainee

Raleigh, NC · On-site

General Information Job ID ATR64956 Posting Job Title Folder Operator Trainee Locations NC Raleigh Employment Type Full Time Date Posted 23-Jul-2026 Relocation Support No Description & Requirements ...

Smurfit Westrock

Folder Operator Trainee

Raleigh, NC · On-site

General Information Job ID ATR64956 Posting Job Title Folder Operator Trainee Locations NC Raleigh Employment Type Full Time Date Posted 23-Jul-2026 Relocation Support No Description & Requirements ...

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Cary, NC · On-site

Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater services) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas ... FO Trainee - * Will be required to get either a C Well or Grade I waste water license within 18 ...

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All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Operator Trainee information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$24.8K

$42.3K

$61.7K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Raleigh, NC is $42,313.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,100.00 and $49,600.00 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 Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,313 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Folder Operator Trainee

Westrock

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

General Information
Job ID
ATR64956
Posting Job Title
Folder Operator Trainee
Locations
NC Raleigh
Employment Type
Full Time
Date Posted
23-Jul-2026
Relocation Support
No
Description & Requirements
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.
The Opportunity:
  • Set up and maintain insert folding equipment
  • Locates flatstock to make ready for folding inserts and outserts.
  • Performs all required preventative machine maintenance
  • Performs all make readies and minor adjustments to produce inserts.
  • Operates insert folding equipment as needed.
  • Adheres to 6S, SOP's and work instructions.
  • Makes trays and shippers as needed.
  • Performs other job duties as assigned.

What you need to succeed:
  • High school diploma or G.E.D).
  • Two to three years of related experience and/or training preferred.
  • Ability to read and write complex instructions, correspondence and memos.
  • Willing and able to work overtime as needed; significant overtime may be required during busy periods.
  • Must be able to perform all essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.

What we offer:
  • Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability and excellence
  • Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities
  • An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies and potential

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

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