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Operator Trainee Jobs in St Louis, MO (NOW HIRING)

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Saint Peters, MO

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Saint Peters, MO · On-site

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Saint Peters, MO · On-site

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Collinsville, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Collinsville, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Collinsville, IL

$62K/yr

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Clean Harbors

Driver Class B Trainee

Saint Charles, MO · On-site

$22.50/hr

Charles, MO is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B Trainee). This role ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Clean Harbors

Driver Class B Trainee

Saint Charles, MO · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Charles, MO is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B Trainee). This role ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Red Bull

Sales Trainee

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

This is a training role that is made to prepare the Sales Trainee for the Account Sales Manager role. The role primarily is to support sales initiatives and provide route coverage for the ASM during ...

Cintas

Management Trainee

Hazelwood, 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

Hazelwood, 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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee JobsOperator Trainee Jobs in St. Louis, MO

Operator Trainee information

See St Louis, MO salary details

$24.8K

$42.3K

$61.7K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in St. Louis, MO is $42,321.00, 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 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 St. Louis, MO?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in St. Louis, MO are:

What cities near St. Louis, MO are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near St. Louis, MO with the most Operator Trainee job openings:

Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in St. Louis, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,321 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Treatment Plant Operator Trainee III

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Essential Functions:
  • Support 24/7 operations.
  • As a trainee, operate, maintain, and adjust a variety of pumps, blowers, compressors, conveyors, sludge controls, air diffusers, filters, tanks, collectors, chemical equipment, mixer valves, incinerators, and other mechanical, instrumentation and electrical equipment.
  • Take samples of sewage at various stages.
  • Clean plant units such as bar screens, comminutors, grit removal units, heat exchangers, aeration tanks and equipment, chlorinators, sludge pumps and pipe galleries.
  • Replenish chemical solution tanks, unload chemicals, perform routine plant maintenance and cleaning work.
  • Operate electrical and computer controls, as needed.
  • Responsible for good housekeeping in assigned work areas.
  • Keep records.
  • Assist plant trades employees.
  • Meet requirements of the Wastewater Operator Training Program.

Additional Responsibilities:
Perform related work as required or as delegated by Senior Operators, Team Leaders, and Supervisor.The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District provides comprehensive wastewater and storm water management services to residents and businesses in both St. Louis City and County. As one of the most recognized employers in the region and a fixture in the downtown area, MSD employs over 900 individuals in a wide-range of roles including skilled crafts and laborers, engineering, information technology, finance, human resources and administration support.  We invite you to be part of the team!Training and Experience:
  • Graduation from high school or equivalent AND successful completion of an approved Water Quality Control Program OR successful completion of at least one year of on-the-job experience and/or training.
  • Must possess a Missouri Class "D" wastewater treatment operator's license or another state's equivalent.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Good knowledge of the operation and maintenance of pumps, motors, and related electrical and mechanical equipment.
  • Knowledge of safe work practices.
  • Ability to take accurate readings.
  • Keep records and make reports.
  • Ability to learn quickly and follow prescribed routines.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
  • Must have and maintain a Missouri Class "D" wastewater treatment operator's license.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license by the state in which the employee resides.
  • Pursuant to MSD's "Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures," this position has been designated as safety sensitive, and candidate must pass a Non-D.O.T. Drug Test for this position. Employees occupying this position are not subject to Federal (D.O.T.) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations.
  • Employees of MSD must have a meets expectations.

Physical Demands
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