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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Strive to achieve the highest operating efficiency, job efficiency, and standard of performance ... Wear all safety equipment necessary for the job and follow all plant safety rules and regulations ...

Strive to achieve the highest operating efficiency, job efficiency, and standard of performance ... Wear all safety equipment necessary for the job and follow all plant safety rules and regulations ...

Showing results 21-26

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.

Mechanic Second Class

Owens Corning

Brookville, IN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Owens Corning rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

169th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

SHIFT: 6PM-6AM (223)
SUMMARY
SUMMARY
The primary objective is to maintain plant equipment in a safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant condition. Strive to achieve the highest operating efficiency, job efficiency, and standard of performance possible while maintaining product quality.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide support to the Maintenance Leader, Planner/Scheduler and shift leaders on jobs to be performed.
  • Performs PM's as they are scheduled
  • Reports all equipment concerns to their leaders
  • Performs all equipment repairs and projects in a safe and efficient manner using all safety procedures.
  • Answer line calls in a prompt manner and carry required tools to complete work safety and efficiently
  • Assist during process upsets as needed.
  • Wear all safety equipment necessary for the job and follow all plant safety rules and regulations, including the machinery lockout procedure.
  • Follow the scheduled jobs unless given approval to deviate from the schedule.
  • Clean up immediately after a job is completed and maintain a quality house-cleaning program.
  • Attend schools, seminars, etc. to enhance skills in the various crafts including mechanical, electrical, PLC, machining and welding.
  • Keep the parts and tool rooms organized and cleaned.
  • Work with other employees in a team like manner.
  • Notify your supervisor immediately of any accident, near miss accident or on-the-job injury when it occurs no matter how insignificant it may seem
  • Operate equipment only when you are trained in its use or are working with or under the direction of a qualified employee, and you are authorized to do so by your supervisor
  • Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES
The employee should hold the following abilities:
  • Knowledge in mechanical repairs, welding, electrical to include PLC and electronic drives, machining, plumbing, etc. to maintain the plant.
  • Basic knowledge of mathematics
  • Good oral and written communications skills
  • Ability to read and interrupt blueprints
  • Ability to take precision measurements

COMPUTER AND SOFTWARE COMPENTENCIES
The employee must be able to:
  • Log into and navigate Globalink to access PeopleSoft for paycheck/benefits enrollment information
  • Log into and navigate Owens Corning University (OCU) and accomplish required online training routinely
  • Basic computer knowledge and skills

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
The employee should have the following:
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalency
  • Qualified Maintenance Technician at another Job/Company
  • Maintenance Trainee Program

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
The employee should possess the ability to:
  • Ability to routinely lift up to 40 lbs without assistance
  • Ability to routinely lift up to 80 lbs with assistance
  • Work for up to 12 hours in extreme hold/cold manufacturing environment
  • Walk/stand on concrete floors continuously for up to 12 hours
  • Routinely ascend and descend stairs and ladders as work area requires
  • Safeguard self with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - steel toed shoes, ear plugs, eye protection (glasses, goggles, and/or facemask) as necessary for task
  • Push/Drive floor sweeping and cleaning equipment or tools as necessary for housekeeping duties
  • Ability to rotate and work shift work
  • Exposure to noise
  • Ability to work from heights (silos and JLG Lifts)
  • Ability to work overtime as necessary

What Owens Corning employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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OWENS CORNING logo

About OWENS CORNING

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Owens Corning (OC) develops, manufactures and markets insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composites. Global in scope and human in scale, the company's market-leading businesses use their deep expertise in materials, manufacturing and building science to develop products and systems that save energy and improve comfort in commercial and residential buildings. Through its glass reinforcements business, the company makes thousands of products lighter, stronger and more durable. Ultimately, Owens Corning people and products make the world a better place. Based in Toledo, Ohio, Owens Corning posted 2017 sales of $6.4 billion and employs 19,000 people in 37 countries. It has been a Fortune 500® company for 64 consecutive years. For more information, please visit www.owenscorning.com. A career at Owens Corning offers the ability to enhance your expertise and achieve your personal and professional aspirations. Through it all, we'll empower you with an environment that encourages open communication and big ideas, competitive pay for your performance, comprehensive benefits, and more opportunities to make your impact.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Toledo, OH, US

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