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Operator Trainee Jobs in Schenectady, NY (NOW HIRING)

CDL Trainee

Glenmont, NY · On-site

$21.50 - $26/hr

Follow all safety protocols, traffic laws, and company policies while operating vehicles. * Communicate effectively with dispatchers, supervisors, and team members to coordinate routes and deliveries.

The Airport Firefighter 1 Trainee (APFF1T) will have 11 months to complete all the required ... Perform inspections and operator maintenance on all assigned vehicles and equipment in an effective ...

The Airport Firefighter 1 Trainee (APFF1T) will have 11 months to complete all the required ... Airport Fire Fighter, Driver/Operator Pumper, Driver/Operator Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighter (ARFF ...

Forklift Operator

Albany, NY · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

The Forklift Operator operates and manages movement of materials to ensure a clean, organized facility, respects forklift safety criteria and fulfills production needs. Hiring Range is $18.00-$22.00 ...

As a Machine Operator, you will be part of the production department supporting manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will demonstrate reliability, attention to detail, and a proactive ...

Forklift Operator

Clifton Park, NY · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Forklift Operator The Forklift Operator operates and manages the movement of materials to ensure a clean, organized facility, respects forklift safety criteria, and fulfills production needs. Hiring ...

Forklift Operator

Albany, NY · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Forklift Operator The Forklift Operator operates and manages movement of materials to ensure a clean, organized facility, respects forklift safety criteria and fulfills production needs. Hiring range ...

Showing results 41-60

Operator Trainee information

See Schenectady, NY salary details

$24.7K

$42.1K

$61.4K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Schenectady, NY is $42,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,900.00 and $49,300.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Schenectady, NY?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Schenectady, NY are:

What cities near Schenectady, NY are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Schenectady, NY with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Schenectady, NY 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 $42,117 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Training Specialist 1 / Trainee 1-2

StateJobsNY

Rensselaer, NY • On-site

$53K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Duties Description This position is for Training Specialist 1 in the Division of Child Care Services, within the Bureau of Operational Support Services or in the Bureau of Child Care Assistance. The Training Specialist 1, SG-18, develops, administers, and/or presents specific training courses designed to improve on-the-job knowledge, skills, and abilities of child care providers, regulators, local social services district staff, and other stakeholders and audiences as identified. Specific focus will be on computer systems training, and the intersection with applicable statutes, rules and regulations.
Specific duties include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Develops webinars, live courses, and eLearning using online content development tools, learning engagement tools and presentation tools.
• Coordinates learning event logistics for onsite and offsite programs in accordance with standards and practices.
• Communicates with stakeholders regarding specific training needs
• Develops annual learning plans for targeted stakeholders and learning groups.
• Manages budget and procurement for professional development learning events, as needed.
• Prepares training announcements.
• Develops communication, deliverables, registration forms, materials, and other documentation for professional development and Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programming.
• Coordinates onsite logistics during learning events.
• Works with bureau to identified training needs
• Coordinates requests for external training.
• Works with other trainers and bureau leadership on video content for training
• Coordinates with outside vendors and third-party learning groups to offer training opportunities for agency staff.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications Transfer: One year of permanent competitive or 55b/c service in this title or in a title eligible for 70.1 transfer. This position may be designated 55 b/c and is subject to verification of applicant eligibility.
Open to the Public: This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS).**
Trainee 1 level (equivalent to SG 14): four years of qualifying experience*
Trainee 2 level (equivalent to SG 16): five years of qualifying experience*
Full title (SG 18): six years of qualifying experience*
*Qualifying experience is defined as developing and presenting training programs to improve the on-the-job knowledge, skills, and abilities of employees to enable them to carry out the agency's mission, including the care and treatment of vulnerable persons in the care and/or custody of the State.
*An associate degree may substitute for two years of experience.
*A bachelor's degree may substitute for four years of experience.
*A master's degree may substitute for five years of experience.
*A doctorate may substitute for six years of experience.
Additional Comments 50% Travel will be required.
Core operating hours for office-based positions within the agency are 8-5. Exact shift within that timeframe will be discussed at the time of the interview.
**For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title maybe filled via a non- competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply.
At a future date (within one year of permanent appointment), it is expected employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive employment status converted to competitive status, without having to compete in an examination. Employees will then be afforded with all of the same rights and privileges of competitive class employees of New York State. While serving permanently in a NY HELPS title, employees may take part in any promotion examination for which they are qualified
Candidates who took and passed the most recent holding of the Professional Careers Opportunities (PCO) Exam are encouraged to apply.
Background Investigation Requirements:
1) All prospective employees will be investigated through a Criminal Background Check (CBC), which includes State and federal Criminal History Record Checks. All convictions must be reported; conviction of a felony or misdemeanor, or any falsified or omitted information on the prospective appointee's employment application, may bar appointment or result in removal after appointment. Each case will be determined on its own merits, consistent with the applicable provisions of State and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Prospective employees will be fingerprinted in order to obtain a record of their criminal history information and may be required to pay any necessary fees.
2) All prospective employees will be screened against the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCR). Prospective employees will be required to pay any necessary fees.
3) For Division of Juvenile Justice and Opportunities for Youth (DJJOY) prospective appointees will be checked against the Staff Exclusion List (SEL) maintained by the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs. Prospective employees whose names appear on the SEL as having been found responsible for serious or repeated acts of abuse or neglect will be barred from appointment and may have their names removed from the eligible list(s) for the title(s) if applicable.
The Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is an equal opportunity employer. OCFS does not discriminate based upon age, race, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, military or veteran status, sex, disability (including pregnancy-related conditions), predisposing genetic characteristics, familial status, marital status or status as a victim of domestic violence, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We devote special attention to dismantling racial injustice and recognize that diversity in our workforce is critical to fulfilling our mission. We are committed to the diversity of our staff, and encourage applicants from marginalized communities to apply. In furtherance of Executive Order 31 and OCFS's mission to have a diverse workforce, all people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. All applicants must be dedicated to working in and sustaining an environment of inclusion that affirms and celebrates the backgrounds, learned and lived expertise, whole identities, and individual perspectives of our staff. Applicants of all backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to self-identify during the application process.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name New York State Office of Children and Family Services
Telephone 518-473-7936
Fax 518-473-6122
Email Address eoajobpostings@ocfs.ny.gov
Address
Street Bureau of Personnel - MIH
52 Washington Street, 231 North
City Rensselaer
State NY
Zip Code 12144
Notes on Applying Qualified candidates should e-mail their resume and letter of interest to eoajobpostings@ocfs.ny.gov You MUST include the Vacancy number of the position in the subject line of your email and/or cover letter to ensure receipt of your application. In order to qualify you for the position when you have current or prior New York State employment, you may be contacted by OCFS Personnel for your social security number to confirm your employment history.