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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Underground Distribution Foreman

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

Underground Distribution Foreman

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of ... Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade. * Call in utilities located at each project site.

Showing results 41-42

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Colorado salary details

$32.1K

$55.7K

$89.9K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Colorado is $55,691.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,200.00 and $62,600.00 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 Colorado?

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Colorado are:

What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado?

For Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,691 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Underground Distribution Foreman

MasTec Inc

Fort Collins, CO • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


MasTec rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 154 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Overview

Company Summary

MasTec Utility Services delivers critical infrastructure construction and engineering services for power delivery, gas, and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems, and turnkey solutions for a variety of water, sewer, and civil infrastructure projects. Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment to core values, MUS delivers safe, innovative, and environmentally responsible services that provide extraordinary value to clients.

MasTec Utility Services is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. We’re always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.

MasTec Utility Services is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. MUS is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.

Job Summary

The Underground Distribution Foreman leads the crew to complete daily tasks related to the construction and maintenance of underground power lines, from plant/station to meter base, auxiliary facilities, and equipment for the distribution of electricity. They read blueprints of projects and are responsible for production. This position oversees the Line team, ensures crew safety, and collaborates with personnel from other departments.

Pay Rate: $35.00 - $40.00 per hour

*** There is no per diem for this role. ***


Responsibilities
  • Obtain all the necessary materials for the job, and ensure all permits and licenses are in place.
  • Oversee work related to each project and assume full responsibility for its quality and timeliness.
  • Compliance with proper safety standards, procedures, and work practices according to MasTec or the customer, whichever standard is higher.
  • Facilitate daily toolbox talks and weekly safety inspections.
  • Disseminates information and ensures understanding of safety briefings.
  • Coordinate and supervise daily tasks for crew members related to digging and placing product.
  • Perform switching procedures to isolate and insulate, splice, and terminate underground power lines following proper safety procedures.
  • Provide for connecting and disconnecting, installing and removal, moving and transferring of various electrical devices on customers facilities, i.e., transformers, transformer banks, regulators, switches, switching devices, capacitor banks, etc.
  • Properly phase and mark/tag underground equipment.
  • Drive, haul, and/or operate equipment to/from job sites to assist crews in completion of work.
  • Train new hires and trainees to learn the trade.
  • Call in utilities located at each project site.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment and general construction.
  • 2 years of supervisory experience.
  • Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required.

Preferred

  • 6 or more years of experience, including extensive experience supervising and training skilled labor.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE). 

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.  

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 3 years of experience operating heavy equipment and general construction.
  • 2 years of supervisory experience.
  • Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required.

Preferred

  • 6 or more years of experience, including extensive experience supervising and training skilled labor.

Physical Demands and Work Environment 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.  

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE). 

Equal Employment Opportunity: 

The Company’s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories.  

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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