1

Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Forklift Operator Trainee

Boardman, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

Forklift Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271585 Time Type ... Summary Receives instructions from the warehouse lead and utilizes the knowledge of plant and ...

Forklift Operator Trainee

Boardman, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

Forklift Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271585 Time Type ... Summary Receives instructions from the warehouse lead and utilizes the knowledge of plant and ...

Forklift Operator Trainee

Boardman, OR · On-site

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

Forklift Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271585 Time Type ... Summary Receives instructions from the warehouse lead and utilizes the knowledge of plant and ...

Palletizer Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271532 Time Type ... Plant Operation Climbing to various heights via stairs or ladders on a regular basis The above ...

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee

Boardman, OR · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271144 Time Type ... Operates, cleans, and troubleshoots the plant's optical sorter equipment including vision modules ...

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee

Boardman, OR · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271144 Time Type ... Operates, cleans, and troubleshoots the plant's optical sorter equipment including vision modules ...

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee

Boardman, OR · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271144 Time Type ... Operates, cleans, and troubleshoots the plant's optical sorter equipment including vision modules ...

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee

Boardman, OR · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271144 Time Type ... Operates, cleans, and troubleshoots the plant's optical sorter equipment including vision modules ...

Palletizer Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271532 Time Type ... Plant Operation Climbing to various heights via stairs or ladders on a regular basis The above ...

Palletizer Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271532 Time Type ... Plant Operation Climbing to various heights via stairs or ladders on a regular basis The above ...

... Plant Operation Climbing to various heights via stairs or ladders on a regular basis The above ... Palletizer Operator Trainee Company Profile: Lamb Weston is a leading supplier of frozen potato ...

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271396 Time Type ... Follow all plant safety policies and procedures. Be actively involved in safety, participate in ...

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271396 Time Type ... Follow all plant safety policies and procedures. Be actively involved in safety, participate in ...

L2 CADRE Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271396 Time Type ... Follow all plant safety policies and procedures. Be actively involved in safety, participate in ...

Batter Mix Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271610 Time Type ... Other position to be qualified in will be at the discretion of management based on plant needs and ...

Batter Mix Operator Trainee Location: Boardman, OR Job Requisition ID: Req-271610 Time Type ... Other position to be qualified in will be at the discretion of management based on plant needs and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Oregon salary details

$32.2K

$56K

$90.4K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Oregon is $55,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,400.00 and $62,900.00 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 Oregon?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,996 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Forklift Operator Trainee

Lamb Weston

Boardman, OR • On-site

$16.75 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Lamb Weston rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

241st of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Title: Forklift Operator TraineeLocation: Boardman, ORJob Requisition ID: Req-271585Time Type: Full time

About Lamb Weston


You've probably enjoyed our fries without even knowing it! As a leading manufacturer in our industry, we inspire and bring people together with foods they love and trust. Our customer base includes international food service providers, restaurants, and households in over 100 countries around the world.


A highly innovative global corporation with a start-up mindset, we empower every individual to make a genuine difference. You'll gain access to hands-on training to fuel your growth and success, explore opportunities for new solutions, and you'll join a winning team of 10,000+ people all dedicated to raising the bar - together.


If you have a strong drive for results, a desire to help us bring the world together through our fries, and are ready for a fresh challenge, we want to hear from you.

Job Description Summary

Receives instructions from the warehouse lead and utilizes the knowledge of plant and warehouse operating procedures to expeditiously and effectively carry out assignments driving a powered industrial truck equipped with lifting devices such as forklift and clamps to lift, stack, tier or move products, equipment, or materials. Must efficiently maintain supplies to production as well as transfer packaged product to cold storage areas.

Job Description

Maintains safe work practices at all times and participates in safety programs.

Knows safety rules and regulations for lift truck operation.

Inspects the lift truck prior to operation and reports any deficiency.

Moves levers and presses pedals to drive truck and control movement of lifting apparatus.

Positions forks, lifting platform, or other lifting device under, over, or around loaded pallets, skids, boxes, products, or materials and transports load to designated area.

Unloads and stacks material by raising and lowering lifting device.

Understand information is on the manifest tickets and how this information applies to their responsibilities.

Understand the procedure for "First In First Out" procedures

Loads and unloads materials onto or off of pallets, skids, or lifting device as needed.

Maintains bulk repacks.

Reports all equipment failures and mechanical problems to appropriate personnel.

Completes forms in accurate, timely and legible manner and can identify cases, labels, cuts, colors, catalog numbers, day codes and acceptable case conditions.

Knows procedures for battery changes.

Waste Driver

Supplies batter, SAPP, condiment, and sugars for processing. Removes filled waste carts and totes from the plant areas. Empties out waste carts and totes into waste hopper. Sanitizes waste carts, wastes totes, and lift truck as needed. Keeps waste area clean and organized. Knows FIFO procedures.

Freezer Driver

Maintains sanitation duties in the freezer Transports finished goods or tote product to or from zero degree cold storage bays in warehouse and able to withstand cold storage temperatures for extended periods Stacks good or restricted cased product and supplies rework with restricted product. Communicates with manifestor on what inventories, and which items to blend, to rework, and which items to put away in the freezer. Communicates when bay transfers are needed, and which bay to transfer to. Monitors freezer rollers and keeps them from backing up the line. Removes hand stacked pallets from the hand palletizing area. Replaces cases opened by Q.A.

Bulk Driver

Sorts and stacks excess bulk and supplies packaging with bulk blend Supplies pallets to the palletizing area. Sort the Bulk Return bulk to freezer

Tote Room Driver

Supplies totes to add back machines. Monitors tote room activities and supplies empty totes, and remove filled totes. Assists palletizer operator with loading pallets in pallet dispenser as needed. Maintains adequate empty totes for all bulkoff stations.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS:

Maintains a clean and orderly work environment.

Changes batteries on lift truck when required.

Basic & Preferred Qualifications

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Less than high school education; or up to one month related experience or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Need to work with minimal supervision.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and fill out forms. Ability to speak effectively with other employees in the organization.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent.

REASONING ABILITY:

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations. Also must be able to memorize product codes, labels and bulk lot numbers.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and climb or balance.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to extreme cold in the freezer and extreme heat in the summer months. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Industry-Competitive Benefits

Coupled with our compensation and bonus incentive programs, our benefits deliver rewards that are market competitive. Some of the most attractive elements of our benefit programs include:

  • Health Insurance Benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision

  • Flexible Spending Accounts for Health and Dependent Care, and Health Reimbursement Accounts

  • Well-being programs including companywide events and a wellness incentive program

  • Paid Time Off

  • Financial Wellness - Industry leading 401(k) plan with generous company contributions, Financial Planning Services, Employee Stock purchase program, and Health Savings Accounts, Life and Accident insurance

  • Family-Friendly Employee events

  • Employee Assistance Program services - mental health and other concierge type services

Benefits may vary based on location, job role/level, job status, and/or the terms of any applicable collective bargaining agreements.

Anticipated Close Date

The anticipated close date is a good faith estimate for when this job will be closed. Some jobs may be unposted or filled earlier or later than the Anticipated Close Date depending on interview processes and business needs.Anticipated Close Date: 09/24/2026

Pay Transparency

In compliance with applicable state and local laws, Lamb Weston has opted to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. This compensation is specific to this position and takes into account a number of variables. Actual compensation may be higher or lower in the range based on various factors, including, but not limited to a candidate's work location, job duties, experience and expertise. A reasonable hourly estimate for this role is listed below.Pay Rate or Range: $25.70

Equal Opportunity Employer

Lamb Weston is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law


What Lamb Weston employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom