ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Rumpke of Kentucky, Inc.

Driver Trainee

Louisville, KY · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... recycling plant. Responsibilities of Position: * Attend classroom and field training and study ...

Rumpke

Driver Trainee

Louisville, KY · On-site

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... recycling plant. Responsibilities of Position: * Attend classroom and field training and study ...

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Lexington, KY · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts ... Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science ...

MHI

Machinist Training Specialist

Ghent, KY · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Primetals Technologies USA is a leading partner for engineering, plant construction and lifecycle ... Coach and mentor trainees to enhance technical proficiency, quality standards, and safe work ...

All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Trainee JobsPlant Operator Trainee Jobs in Kentucky

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Kentucky salary details

$26.5K

$46K

$74.3K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Kentucky is $45,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,500.00 and $51,700.00 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 Kentucky?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,999 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Plant Operator Trainee Program (2026-2027)

Jefferson County Public Schools

Louisville, KY • On-site

$16.13 - $19.24/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Jefferson County Public Schools (Kentucky) rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

431st of 639 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

Position Type:
Housekeeping/Plant Operators
Date Posted:
8/4/2026
Location:
C B YOUNG
Closing Date:
08/31/2026
PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE PROGRAM
Job Description
Working Calendar: 261 Days/ 8.0 Hours
Salary Schedule 1B Grade 2 - This salary schedule is for internal candidates only, external candidates must enter into sub custodial pool at sub custodial rate.
SALARY PAY RANGE : $16.13 - $19.24/hr
Crtiical Need Stipend $3.50 per hour
INTERNAL CANDIDATES
At this time applications for this custodial opening are being accepted from presently employed custodians, sub-custodians, and JCPS employees with the required housekeeping training.
The purpose of the Plant Operator Trainee Program is three-fold: (1) to provide formal and on-the-job training, for a minimum of sixty-five (65) workdays, designed to prepare personnel for Plant Operator positions, (2) to provide substitutes for temporarily absent Plant Operators, and (3) to provide skill enhancement opportunities for custodial employees.
The following procedures apply to the program:
  1. The Plant Operator Trainee Program is by application only. Applicants must have the following minimum qualifications:
    1. High School Diploma, G.E.D.
    2. Two (2) years of current experience as a custodian in a school environment or comparable experience in business and industry
    3. Working knowledge or ability to understand heating, ventilation and air conditioning units
    4. Ability to perform preventative maintenance tasks
  2. Applicants having the minimum qualifications listed above will be given consideration for admission to the Program based on the following:
    1. A satisfactory score on the written Plant Operator test (SAGE) (must be on file or to schedule a SAGE test, call 485-3400.)
    2. The recommendation of their current supervisor, or if not presently employed, their most recent employer (no disciplinary action in last 12 months)
    3. The recommendation of an interview committee

3. Applicants selected for participation in the program, will be classified as Custodian Floater and placed at the appropriate salary grade for the position. They will receive five (5) days of classroom and training laboratory instruction. Those successfully completing this five (5) days of instruction will then be provided sixty (60) days of on-the-job Plant Operator training, thirty (30) days of which will be in elementary schools and thirty (30) days in secondary schools. All training assignments will be made by Housekeeping Services.
4. At the end of this sixty (60) day training period, successful Trainees will return to a custodial assignment or remain in the custodial pool until they are selected for a permanent position. Unsuccessful Trainees will be returned either to their previous assignment or to the first available custodial vacancy. Custodians that have completed the Plant Operator Trainee Program, but are not selected for a Plant Operator position within two (2) years of completing the training will be required to reapply to the plant Operator trainee program.

What Jefferson County Public Schools (Kentucky) employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply