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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Operator Trainee

Ashtabula, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

: Chemical Operator Trainee Huntsman is seeking a Chemical Operator Trainee supporting the Advanced ... Understand the basic function of all plant utility systems. * Understand basic utility flows and ...

Chemical Operator Trainee

Ashtabula, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

: Chemical Operator Trainee Huntsman is seeking a Chemical Operator Trainee supporting the Advanced ... Understand the basic function of all plant utility systems. * Understand basic utility flows and ...

Chemical Operator Trainee

Ashtabula, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

: Chemical Operator Trainee Huntsman is seeking a Chemical Operator Trainee supporting the Advanced ... Understand the basic function of all plant utility systems. * Understand basic utility flows and ...

Chemical Operator Trainee

Ashtabula, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

: Chemical Operator Trainee Huntsman is seeking a Chemical Operator Trainee supporting the Advanced ... Understand the basic function of all plant utility systems. * Understand basic utility flows and ...

Operates and monitors water treatment plant in accordance with established operating procedures ... Provides guidance to operator trainees. Performs duties of co-workers as workload dictates.

Completing, successfully, the Operations Trainee job duty checklist, as well as items in the ... All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant ...

Completing, successfully, the Operations Trainee job duty checklist, as well as items in the ... All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant ...

Silgan Containers is seeking a Production Management Development Trainee. Join Silgan's Production ... Enforce standard operating procedures and assist with training and developing plant staff.

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 ...

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

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Plant Operator Trainee information

See Ohio salary details

$29K

$50.4K

$81.3K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Ohio is $50,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,900.00 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,351 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Chemical Operator Trainee

Ashtabula, OH • On-site

Huntsman Corporation
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$17.50 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Huntsman Corporation rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 104 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Job Description:
Chemical Operator Trainee
Huntsman is seeking a Chemical Operator Trainee supporting the Advanced Materials Division located in Ashtabula, Ohio . This position will report to the Manager Production.
Job Scope
Responsible for supporting chemical manufacturing operations by following established processes and safety procedures, maintaining accurate production records, monitoring equipment and utility systems, and assisting with routine operating activities to ensure safe and efficient plant operations.
In summary, as the Chemical Operator, you will:
  • Correctly record and assess all data added to records, including Batch Sheets, Batch Tickets, checklists, and inspection forms.
  • Adhere to Zero Harm principles, Safe Work Practices, and PPE requirements.
  • Recognize hazards and take action to remediate them.
  • Report all incidents to supervision.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Read and understand Process Batch Sheets and Process Instruction Logs.
  • Communicate information effectively to supervision and operations personnel regarding issues and process status during shift changes.
  • Read gauges and set steam and pressure regulators.
  • Correctly label and handle process waste streams.
  • Trace lines to understand process flows.
  • Understand the basic function of all plant utility systems.
  • Understand basic utility flows and the operation of applying steam and cooling to reactor jackets.
  • Read and understand SDSs for process chemicals.
  • Maintain proper recordkeeping in Operator Logs, Process Batch Sheets, and recording sheets.
  • Assist in setting up lines and vessels for Line Break and Vessel Entry Permits.
  • Understand and use the DCS to obtain tank/vessel levels, temperature readings, totalizer readings, and pressure readings.
  • Maintain a basic understanding of Emergency Procedures outlined in the Emergency Action Plan.

Qualifications
You must possess the below minimum qualifications to be initially considered for this position. Preferred qualifications are in addition to the minimum requirements and are considered a plus factor in identifying top candidates.
The candidate must have an unrestricted right to work for Huntsman in the United States.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Must be Forklift certified.

Skills and Knowledge
  • Must have basic computer skills.
  • Demonstrated troubleshooting skills.
  • The ability to understand and apply the basic principles of chemistry, pressure, temperature, and the physical properties of materials to attain proficiency in chemical process operations.

Working Environment
  • Work in a chemical manufacturing environment.

Huntsman is proud to promote equal opportunity in the workplace All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic.
All unsolicited resumes presented by recruitment agencies are treated as pro bono information or service and will not be compensated.
Huntsman is aware of scams involving fraudulent job offers. We do not make job offers until after a candidate has submitted a job application and has participated in an interview. Please be advised that any job offer that requires payment or requires you to deposit a check is likely a scam. If you have questions about any open positions at Huntsman or Rubicon, please visit our Careers website at http://www.huntsman.com/corporate/a/Careers.
Additional Locations:

What Huntsman Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Huntsman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

For 50 years, our employees have been using science and ingenuity to create innovations that play a critical role in the everyday lives of many millions of people. As a global chemicals company, Huntsman’s work forms the building blocks for countless consumer and industrial products that are part of your everyday life. Our employees are united around a common goal: enriching lives through innovation.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Spring, TX, US

Year founded

1970

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