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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Driver Trainee

Bucyrus, OH

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Ironton, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Cincinnati, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Wellston, OH

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... recycling plant. Shift: 4:00AM-6:00PM M-F Responsibilities of Position: * Attend classroom and ...

Driver Trainee

Findlay, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... plant. Shift: 5:00am - 7:00pm M-F Responsibilities of Position: * Attend classroom and field ...

Driver Trainee

Waverly, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Bucyrus, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Ironton, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Waverly, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Cincinnati, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Findlay, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste ... plant. Shift: 5:00am - 7:00pm M-F Responsibilities of Position: * Attend classroom and field ...

Driver Trainee

Circleville, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Waverly, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Driver Trainee

Wellston, OH ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in ... recycling plant. Shift: 4:00AM-6:00PM M-F Responsibilities of Position: * Attend classroom and ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 20, 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 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,351 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Driver Trainee

Rumpke Transportation Company, LLC

Vickery, OH โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Rumpke is a family-owned and operated company that ranks as one of the largest firms in the waste and recycling industry. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional waste and recycling solutions to our customers and communities through a commitment to safety, service, the environment and the growth of our people.

When you join Rumpke, you’ll be part of a team providing essential services to millions of residents, businesses, and neighborhoods. You will enjoy competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, matching 401(k), life insurance, paid vacation, and more.

This is your opportunity to make a difference for you and your family. Come join our team!

The Driver Trainee position trains side-by-side with the drivers to gain experience. Driver Trainees begin employment in a trainee role while training to become a CDL driver. Drivers are responsible for servicing assigned route(s)/customers with the collection and hauling of waste or recycling materials to a disposal site or recycling plant.

Shift: 5:00am - 7:00pm M-F

Responsibilities of Position:

  • Attend classroom and field training and study independently to obtain required CDL license
  • Assist as a helper during training to complete daily routes as needed
  • Enter/exit a truck 300-500 times per day to service assigned route
  • Operate a truck in a safe manner in compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations and company policies
  • Provide waste or recycling removal services to customers on assigned route(s) and hauling to disposal site
  • Clean up waste spills and overflows
  • Maintain and update route sheets/logs sheets
  • Conduct pre-trip/post trip inspections and complete logs
  • Professionally interact with internal and external customers
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibility:

  • This position will not manage employees

Skills & Abilities Needed for Position:

  • Ability to read and understand a map
  • Ability to enter/exit the truck approximately 300-500 times per day
  • Must posses good written and verbal communication skills to be able to communicate effectively and professionally with internal and external customers

Experience & Knowledge Needed for Position:

  • Must be able to obtain a DOT medical card within 10 days of employment
  • Must be able to obtain class B CDL permit within 60 days of employment
  • Must be able to obtain a class B CDL within 90 days of employment

Physical Requirements in a Regular Workday:

  • Frequently lifting/carrying/pushing/pulling a max of 75 lbs
  • Continuously working outside in changing temperatures, wet/humid conditions
  • Continuously working in areas of dust, odors, mist, gases, and other airborne matter
  • Frequently stooping/kneeling/crouching/crawling
  • Frequently climbing and/or balancing
  • Frequently sitting/standing/walking in an office environment

Additional Working Conditions/Aspects:

  • Must be at least 19 years of age
  • No more than 3 moving violations within the last 2 years
  • Must not have any DUI's or OVI's within the last 5 years or 2 in the last 10 years
  • Possible exposure to high traffic conditions and/or tight driving areas
  • Exposure to residential and commercial waste
  • Ability to travel between offices, as required
  • Ability to work flexible hours; expected to work nights and weekends as needed
  • Ability to work overtime, weekends, and/or holidays
  • Legally eligible to work in the United States
  • Valid driver’s license (if applicable)
  • Must successfully complete pre-employment testing
  • Must be able to read and speak the English language

This job description is intended to describe the general nature, complexity, and level of work to be performed by employees assigned to this position and is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. It does not prescribe or restrict the work that may be assigned. Furthermore, this does not establish an employment contract and is subject to change at the discretion of the company.

Rumpke Waste and Recycling is committed to equality in all aspects of employment. It is Rumpke’s policy to provide equal opportunities to all employees and potential employees without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.