ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

West Fraser

Machine Operator Trainee

Leola, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Machine Operator Trainee Our Machine Operator Trainee is an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. What you will do:

West Fraser

Machine Operator Trainee

Leola, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Machine Operator Trainee Our Machine Operator Trainee is an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. What you will do:

Westlake

Extruder Operator Trainee

Columbus, OH

$22.50/hr

Trainee: $22.50 per hour For Experienced Extruder Operators: $24.00- $30.01 per hour , based on experience and demonstrated skill Increases as you progress through training and qualification ...

Westlake

Extruder Operator Trainee

Columbus, OH · On-site

$22.50/hr

Trainee: $22.50 per hour For Experienced Extruder Operators: $24.00- $30.01 per hour , based on experience and demonstrated skill Increases as you progress through training and qualification ...

Service Wire

Machine Operator Trainee

Culloden, WV · On-site

$15K/yr

The Machine Operator Trainee is a strategic development role created to build a ready pool of skilled operators in advance of Service Wire's Culloden expansion project. Safety is a fundamental ...

Asrc

Terminal Operator Trainee

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

Terminal Operator Trainee This position consists of a training program that will be conducted over a period of up to one year. The content of the training program will include the necessary skills ...

Team 360 Staffing

Be Seen First

Operator Trainee

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Job Summary We are seeking a reliable and motivated Operator Trainee to assist in the setup and operation of corrugated production machinery. This position supports machine operators with daily ...

US10 Albemarle Corporation

Operator Trainee

Silverpeak, NV

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Albemarle is hiring for an Operator Trainee. This position is onsite located at our Silver Peak, NV location. The Ponds Helper will assist the Ponds Operator with daily activities to accomplish Ponds ...

Bunge North America

Operator Trainee

Destrehan, LA

$27.10/hr

The Operator Trainee is responsible for learning and overseeing multiple functions of the soybean processing facility. This role is also responsible for demonstrating a commitment to supply safe food ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsOperator JobsOperator Trainee Jobs

Operator Trainee information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator trainee in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 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?

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.
More about Operator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Operator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs? The most popular types of Operator jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Operator Trainee jobs? The top employers for Operator Trainee jobs are:
What states have the most Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Operator Trainee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Operator Trainee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Operator Trainee jobs are:
Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Wastewater Operator Trainee

U.S. Water Services Corporation

Captiva, FL • On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

U.S. Water Services Corporation is a well-established and diverse water and wastewater utility organization specializing in utility maintenance, operations, engineering and construction services. U.S. Water is a fast paced and rapidly expanding company headquartered in New Port Richey, Florida with a staff of over 950 employees in twenty states.

Join the US Water team as a Wastewater Operator Trainee. US Water has a progressive program that allows you to become a licensed water or wastewater operator while working at one of our facilities. The program requires a four-year commitment from potential trainees. Trainees are expected to be licensed with the first two years of employment. There are multiple advancement opportunities exist for licensed operators throughout the company.

A Wastewater Operator Trainee will, under general supervision, assist in the daily operation and maintenance of the wastewater plant and perform related work as required.

ESSENTIAL

  • Assists in the daily operation and maintenance of the wastewater plant in compliance with established procedures and standards and federal and state laws and administrative regulations.
  • Assists with inspection and/or monitoring of pumps, charts, gauges and meters daily.
  • Assists with collection of wastewater samples and conducting lab tests; adjusts chemicals and/or equipment as necessary.
  • Adds chemicals in accordance with prescribed standards.
  • Assists with preparation and maintenance of accurate reports/records.
  • Assists with forwarding wastewater samples and reports as needed.
  • Assists with servicing and performing preventive maintenance program on plant and equipment; makes minor repairs and/or adjustments on plant and equipment; forwards requests for major repairs and/or equipment and tools to maintenance personnel.
  • Assists with maintaining adequate inventory of spare parts, chemicals, equipment and tools.
  • Assists with maintenance and cleaning of plant and and grounds.
  • Attends training programs to obtain license at each level after meeting experience requirements.
  • Assists in other departments/divisions as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Training and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must obtain state specific Water/Wastewater license within the prescribed period.

Knowledge:

  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn, wastewater plant operations.
  • Knowledge of, or ability to learn, federal, state laws and administrative regulations with reference to wastewater treatment.
  • Knowledge of functions, servicing and maintenance requirements of mechanical equipment and machinery.
  • Knowledge of and ability to comply with safety regulations and standards.

Abilities:

  • Ability to detect mechanical flaws and make minor repairs to plant and equipment.
  • Ability to collect samples and perform lab tests.
  • Ability to assist with maintaining preventive maintenance and servicing program on plant and equipment.
  • Ability to prepare and maintain accurate reports.
  • Ability to assist with maintaining the inventory of chemicals, spare parts, and tools.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, other employees, and the general public.
  • Physical ability to perform heavy labor for extended periods of time, often under adverse weather conditions.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical Demands of the Job: While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works in outside weather conditions. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and vibration. The employee occasionally works in high, precarious places and is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and risk of electrical shock.

Special Licensing Requirements: Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

Certification Requirements: As a condition of continued employment, the employee must obtain Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators License issued by the state in which the work is performed.

Compensation and Benefits: Pay is commensurate with experience and market-reflective. US Water/USW Utility Group offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short/long-term disability, paid time off, holiday pay and 401(k) with company match.

US Water/USW Utility Group offers competitive wages and benefits and is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.

Apply