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Operator Trainee Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

City of Springfield (MO)

Plant Operator II

Springfield, MO · On-site

$39K - $64K/yr

Plant Operator Trainee Experience, Education, and Training At least six months of experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area, such as ...

City of Springfield, MO

Plant Operator II

Springfield, MO · On-site

$39K - $64K/yr

Plant Operator Trainee Experience, Education, and Training * At least six months of experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area, such ...

Resource Label Group

Flexo Press Operator Trainee

Nixa, MO · On-site

$19 - $25.25/hr

... Press Operator! This position offers onsite training and the opportunity to learn a valuable ... The Press Trainee will assist in set up and operation of the printing press to producing labels on ...

Cintas

Management Trainee

Springfield, MO · 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

Springfield, MO · 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 ...

Furniture Row

Sales / Management Trainee

Springfield, MO · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

SALES/ MANAGEMENT TRAINEES (no previous exp. necessary - we will train you!) Looking for people who are --- * Career Minded * High in Integrity * Ethical * Energetic * Available evenings, weekends ...

Enterprise

Sales Management Trainee

Ozark, MO

$56K/yr

... 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 ...

True North Group LLC.

Sales Agent Trainee

Ozark, MO · 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 ...

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All JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in Springfield, MO

Operator Trainee information

See Springfield, MO salary details

$24K

$41K

$59.8K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in Springfield, MO is $40,962.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,100.00 and $48,000.00 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, and why are they important?

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 are operator trainees?

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 Springfield, MO? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs in Springfield, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs in Springfield, MO are:
What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in Springfield, MO as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, and 47% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,962 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Plant Operator II

City of Springfield (MO)

Springfield, MO • On-site

$39K - $64K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

City Of Springfield (Missouri) rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

401st of 645 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Description Are you interested in being part of an award winning team. The City of Springfield is committed to protecting the water quality of the Ozarks for many generations to come. The Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plants (SWTP) is an award winning wastewater treatment facility for the City of Springfield and is searching for qualified candidates to fill the position of Plant Operator II.

The Plant Operator II shall perform specialized skilled work in the operation and routine maintenance of sludge conditioning and thickening equipment, mixed media filtration, cryogenic oxygen generation and ozone generation facilities. For more information on the SWTP click here. **PLEASE NOTE WORK SCHEDULE BELOW: SWTP - 2:30AM - 2:30PM or 2:30PM - 2:30AM - 12-hour shifts (Rotation either Sunday - Wednesday or Wednesday - Saturday) THIS POSITION HAS THE OPTION TO UNDERFILL WITH A PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE.

Don't forget to review the amazing benefits - Click Here. Qualifications and Requirements Plant Operator II Experience, Education, and Training Two years of college or vo-tech training in wastewater technology, chemical or biological sciences or a related area; OR Degree in biology, environmental science, or similar area; AND Two years experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area; Directly related work experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis, and double credit may be given for direct City of Springfield Plant Operator Trainee experience. Licensing/Certification At time of hire, must possess a valid Missouri Class "D" Wastewater Operator's Certificate or equivalent; Must obtain and maintain a Class "C" Wastewater Operator's Certificate within the probationary period; Must obtain and maintain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements within the following guidelines: Pass written portion of exam within 90 days of employment and skills test portion within the probationary period.

Plant Operator Trainee Experience, Education, and Training At least six months of experience in the operation of an activated sludge wastewater treatment plant, or in a closely related area, such as plant or infrastructural maintenance; OR Degree in biology, environmental science, or similar area; Possession of current Class D Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations Certificate may be substituted for experience/degree requirement. Licensing/Certification Obtain and maintain a Missouri class "D" wastewater treatment plant operations certificate within probationary period. Must obtain and maintain a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with appropriate endorsements within the following guidelines: Pass written portion of exam within 90 days of employment and skills test portion within 120 days of employment.

Functions Plant Operator II For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description. Salary - $39,561.60 - $64,708.80 Annually Underfill - Plant Operator Trainee For more information on essential functions and other requirements, please see the job description. Salary -$38,064.00 - $56,430.40 Annually Other Requirements The City of Springfield promotes equal employment opportunities to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or other legally protected status

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Individuals with disabilities who believe they will need an accommodation to undergo any part of the interview, examination, or pre-employment process, should request a reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to the testing or appointment. Requests should be requested by contacting City of Springfield Human Resources by phone, 417-864-1607, or in person at the Municipal Busch Building, 840 Boonville Ave.

Springfield, MO 65802. Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. We are committed to a drug-free workplace.

Pre-employment drug testing is required. All interested candidates MUST complete the City of Springfield on-line application in its entirety. The candidate profile must include all employment history with accurate and complete information prior to submission.

Resumes alone will not be accepted as the application, but they may be submitted as supplemental documentation.

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