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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee

Middletown, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $32.32/hr

... plant electrical, instrumentation, and control systems; operates and monitor equipment to optimize unit performance. Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain ...

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee

Lebec, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $30.35/hr

... plant electrical, instrumentation, and control systems; operates and monitor equipment to optimize unit performance. Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain ...

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee

Lebec, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $30.35/hr

... plant electrical, instrumentation, and control systems; operates and monitor equipment to optimize unit performance. Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain ...

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee (IC&E)

Coyote, CA · On-site

$32.77 - $34.90/hr

... plant electrical, instrumentation, and control systems; operates and monitor equipment to optimize unit performance. Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain ...

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee (IC&E)

Pittsburg, CA

$32.77 - $34.90/hr

... plant electrical, instrumentation, and control systems; operates and monitor equipment to optimize unit performance. Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain ...

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee (IC&E)

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$32.77 - $34.90/hr

... plant electrical, instrumentation, and control systems; operates and monitor equipment to optimize unit performance. Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain ...

Clearway Energy

Solar Technician

Lancaster, CA

$50K - $60K/yr

Technician Trainee ($50,000 - $60,000) Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000) Solar Technician II ( ... Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions and other documents as assigned by ...

Clearway Energy

Solar Technician

Rosamond, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Technician Trainee ($50,000 - $60,000) Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000) Solar Technician II ( ... Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions, and other documents as assigned by ...

Clearway Energy

Solar Technician

Rosamond, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Technician Trainee ($50,000 - $60,000) Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000) Solar Technician II ( ... Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions, and other documents as assigned by ...

Clearway Energy

Solar Technician

Lancaster, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Technician Trainee ($50,000 - $60,000) Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000) Solar Technician II ( ... Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions and other documents as assigned by ...

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee (IC&E)

Coyote, CA · On-site

$32.77 - $34.90/hr

... plant electrical, instrumentation, and control systems; operates and monitor equipment to optimize unit performance. Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain ...

Clearway Energy

Solar Technician

Rosamond, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Technician Trainee ($50,000 - $60,000) Solar Technician I ($54,000 - $77,000) Solar Technician II ( ... Writes Plant Orders, Plant Procedures, Operating Instructions and other documents as assigned by ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Trainee JobsPlant Operator Trainee Jobs in California

Plant Operator Trainee information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$52.3K

$84.4K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in California is $52,269.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $58,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get hired as a plant operator trainee?

To get hired as a plant operator trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training or certification, and sometimes a valid driver's license. Employers often look for basic mechanical skills, the ability to follow safety protocols, and willingness to learn on the job, with some positions requiring passing a background check and drug test.

Is being a plant operator trainee worth it?

A plant operator trainee role provides hands-on experience in operating and maintaining industrial equipment, often leading to full-time positions with competitive wages and benefits. The job requires technical skills, safety awareness, and sometimes certifications, making it a valuable entry point into the energy, manufacturing, or utilities industries.

What are some common challenges faced by plant operator trainees during their initial training period?

Plant Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to rotating shift schedules, learning to monitor complex machinery, and quickly troubleshooting minor operational issues. Trainees must also become familiar with strict safety protocols and environmental regulations, which can be overwhelming at first. However, with mentorship from experienced operators and structured hands-on training, most trainees are able to develop the necessary confidence and skills to handle these responsibilities effectively.

What is the difference between Plant Operator Trainee vs Plant Operator?

AspectPlant Operator TraineePlant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications may be preferredTypically requires relevant certifications or licenses, such as a state-issued operator license
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning on the jobFull responsibility for operating equipment, more autonomous
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting and learning under supervisionOperating machinery, monitoring systems, troubleshooting

In summary, a Plant Operator Trainee is in a learning phase, gaining skills and certifications needed to become a fully qualified Plant Operator. The trainee role involves supervision and assistance, while the Plant Operator role involves independent operation and responsibility.

What is a plant operator trainee?

Plant Operator Trainees are entry-level employees who learn to operate, monitor, and maintain machinery and equipment at facilities such as power plants, water treatment plants, or manufacturing sites. They receive on-the-job training to understand safety procedures, equipment operation, and facility protocols under the supervision of experienced operators. Their goal is to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to eventually become fully qualified Plant Operators. This role typically involves a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience.

Is it hard to become a plant operator trainee?

Becoming a plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, technical training, and sometimes a relevant certification. The process involves learning safety protocols, operating procedures, and gaining hands-on experience, which can vary in difficulty depending on prior knowledge and training opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant operator trainee?

To thrive as a Plant Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, a high school diploma or equivalent, and a willingness to learn plant operations. Familiarity with SCADA systems, safety protocols, and basic hand tools is often required, and some employers may prefer candidates with relevant certifications like OSHA or confined space entry. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills help trainees adapt quickly and contribute to safe, efficient plant operations. These skills are crucial for ensuring safety, minimizing downtime, and supporting the smooth functioning of the facility.

What degree do I need to become a plant operator trainee?

A plant operator trainee typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require post-secondary education such as an associate degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Relevant skills include understanding of mechanical systems and safety procedures, and obtaining certifications like a commercial driver's license or plant-specific training can be beneficial.
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator Trainee jobs in California? For Plant Operator Trainee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Trainee jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Trainee jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:
Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,269 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

004 Sand Operator Raisin Receiving AM $18.62

Sun-Maid Growers of California Plant

Kingsburg, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description

004 Sand Operator Seasonal Raisin Receiving AM

Kingsburg, CA


DEPARTMENT: RAISIN RECEIVING JOB TITLE: SAND OPERATOR


JOB SUMMARY: Takes a sand test on each load of raisins delivered.


PRODUCTION STANDARDS:

Make sure bins are full.

Must weigh sand accurately.

Must be able to keep good record and write legibly.

Watch for defects in the raisins.

Keep work area clean.

Other duties as assigned.


WORKING CONDITIONS: Hot and dusty, work out in the elements.

Activity

Occasionally

(up   to 3 hrs)

Frequently

(3-6   hrs)

Constantly

(6-8+   hrs)

Standing

X

Reaching (below shoulder level)

X

Twisting (neck & waist)

X

Simple & power gripping (both hands)

X

Fine manipulation (both hands)

X

Reaching below shoulder level (both hands)

X

Lifting (0-10 lb.)

X


PLEASE NOTE: THERE IS AN IMMEDIATE OPENING FOR A TRAINEE.

A TEMPORARY TRAINEE WILL BE PICKED FROM ALL APPLICATIONS

RECEIVED DURING THE FIRST TWO DAYS THIS JOB IS POSTED.

Requirements

Requirements

 REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:  Requires good math and ability to read and write English legibly. 

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