1

Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

EXTRUSION OPERATOR

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$19.50 - $21.50/hr

... operation of plant processes, as well as executing diverse departmental functions. Key ... trainee. * Measure departmental performance according to company standards on a regular basis to be ...

EXTRUSION OPERATOR

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$19.50 - $21.50/hr

... operation of plant processes, as well as executing diverse departmental functions. Key ... trainee. * Measure departmental performance according to company standards on a regular basis to be ...

EXTRUSION OPERATOR

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$19.50 - $21.50/hr

... operation of plant processes, as well as executing diverse departmental functions. Key ... trainee. * Measure departmental performance according to company standards on a regular basis to be ...

... operator checklists/guidelines, and best practices implementation. Furthermore, they will support ... Plant Processes * Drive continuous improvement of processes, tooling, and equipment * Support ...

Enforce standard operating procedures and assist with training and developing plant staff. * Oversee teams in various locations, administering labor contracts and fostering positive workplace ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Indiana salary details

$29K

$50.4K

$81.4K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Indiana is $50,397.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $56,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 procedures, and willingness to learn on the job. Prior experience in related roles or with operating machinery can be advantageous.

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 passing written exams and gaining on-the-job experience, making it moderately challenging but achievable with proper preparation and training. Skills in mechanical systems, safety procedures, and attention to detail are important for success in this role.

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 Indiana?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,397 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Power Plant Auxiliary Operator / Operator Trainee

Talen Energy

Lawrenceburg, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Talen Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Talen Energy is looking for candidates to fill opening for Power Plant Auxiliary Operator / Operator Trainee. This position would be located at the Talen Energy Lawrenceburg facility in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. We are looking for qualified candidates with a minimum of having vocational training and/or mechanical experience and prefer candidates with 2-4 years of power plant experience. The Lawrenceburg Power Plant is a 4-unit, natural gas-fired facility located in Lawrenceburg, IN. The CCGT consists of 4 gas turbines and 2 steam turbines.

Talen Energy offers an exceptional benefits program to its employees. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, vision, prescription plans, life insurance, and disability insurance. In addition, employees are eligible to participate in Talen Energy's 401(k) plan. Talen Energy also provides competitive vacation and sick time to its employees.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Perform piping and conduit installation in the plant for system upgrades and modifications.

Operate demineralizers, compressors, and turbine components.

Perform Inspection of Watch on each system within the plant.

Maintains equipment by tightening fittings, replacing valve packing, gaskets, valves, and gauges.

Cleaning, replacing, oiling, and lubricating other component parts and equipment as required.

Reads meters, gauges, or automatic devices to record data such as temperature of equipment, vibration of equipment, hours of operation, pressure, and fluid levels, water chemistry to verify operating conditions.

Performs general housekeeping and continuous improvement of the appearance of the facility including painting projects as required. Maintains the cleanliness of all areas of the plant and control room.

Performs capital project and/or major program responsibilities as assigned by Plant Management.

Coordinates purchasing with appropriate personnel and vendors to achieve timely repair of plant equipment.

Operate and maintains a Combined Cycle power generating facility equipment with minimal guidance or assistance as directed by and in coordination with the Lead.

Identify and resolve emission monitoring problems (CEMS). Assist in calibrations and gas bottle change outs.

Keeps Manager fully informed of unusual plant conditions and current job progress as the job relates to facility operations when assigned on- shift.

Responsible for ordering chemicals through established vendors.

Utilizes the facility's computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).

Works with the Manager in managing the plant's inventory, performing audits as needed.

Responsible for opening and closing circuit breakers as required for proper system operation and electrical isolation.

Outage planning and scheduling involvement

Assist with development of Operations and Maintenance procedures

Assist with administering the Operator training program

Assist with performing Root Cause Analysis of failures.

May operate heavy equipment such man lift and forklift.

Perform water chemistry analysis on heat recovery system generator (HRSG), auxiliary boiler, and cooling tower systems.

Ensure water chemistry is within proper control ranges. Adjust water chemistry, as needed, by controlling chemical feed and/or blowdown rates. Work with plant chemist, operations, and water treatment vendor to properly monitor overall chemistry program

Operate demineralized water system in accordance with OEM and plant procedures and monitor demineralized water to ensure quality is within acceptable limits.

Reads, understands, and complies with all regulatory procedures and facility safety programs. Follow all plant environmental permits.

Required Skills Knowledge:

Demonstrates knowledge of all facets of power plant operations.

Demonstrates the ability to make competent decisions in emergency situations.

Capable of writing operating procedures, work requests, written records.

Demonstrate good verbal and written communication skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office including Excel and Word

Demonstrates the ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical one-lines, logic drawings, technical manuals, and P &ID's.

Will write routine reports, solve practical problems, and clearly communicate tasks and needs, and training of other personnel.

Mechanical, instrumentation and electrical equipment knowledge is required.

Adept at troubleshooting and diagnosing problems with mechanical equipment with the ability to apply a resolution in a timely fashion.

Proficient at repairing, replacing, dismantling, and inspecting defective plant equipment and parts such as pumps, valves, fans, gearboxes, demineralizers, compressors, and turbine components.

Capable of operating welding and cutting equipment and completes metal fabrication projects.

Proficient at Water Chemistry.

Capable of setting up and operating a drill press, pipe threading machine, grinder, and other various tools to make and repair parts and equipment.

Experience:

Trainee:

Vocational training and mechanical experience

Experienced Operator:

Vocational training, mechanical experience AND two to four years of power plant experience or equivalent related experience.

Education Requirements:

High School diploma or equivalent required. Associate degree (AA) or equivalent from a two-year college to technical school preferred

Physical Requirements:

Ability to do walking, reaching, climbing, and lifting (up to 50 pounds).

Must be willing to work a 12-hour rotating shift and be available to work for call-ins and work overtime as needed.

Must be Authorized to work in the USA

Note:You will have an opportunity to add attachments to your application. Please use this opportunity toupload your resume, cover letter, and any relevant documents .


What Talen Energy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom