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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Charlottesville, VA

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Williamsburg, VA

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Fishersville, VA

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Ashburn, VA

$18.50 - $24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Marshall, VA

$16.75 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Fredericksburg, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

White Stone, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Bartlett Tree Experts

Arborist Climber Trainee

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

AdvanSix

Field Trainee - Chesterfield

Chester, VA · On-site

$26.14/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... of chemical plant experience preferred • Experience working in control room operations operating from Distributed Control Systems • Ability to understand a multi-step chemical process • ...

advansix

Field Trainee - Chesterfield

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$26.14/hr

... plant experience preferred · Experience working in control room operations operating from Distributed Control Systems · Ability to understand a multi-step chemical process · Previous experience ...

advansix

Field Trainee - Chesterfield

Dinwiddie, VA · On-site

$26.14/hr

... plant experience preferred · Experience working in control room operations operating from Distributed Control Systems · Ability to understand a multi-step chemical process · Previous experience ...

Ayr Wellness

Dispensary Pharmacy Tech

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $21/hr

S. multi-state cannabis operator with more than 90 licensed retail locations across Florida ... Working Conditions This person may be exposed to cannabis plant material, kief, cleaning chemicals ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Trainee JobsPlant Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$30.2K

$52.5K

$84.8K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Virginia is $52,508.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $59,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 protocols, and willingness to learn on the job, with some positions requiring passing a background check and drug test.

Is being a plant operator trainee worth it?

A plant operator trainee role provides hands-on experience in operating and maintaining industrial equipment, often leading to full-time positions with competitive wages and benefits. The job requires technical skills, safety awareness, and sometimes certifications, making it a valuable entry point into the energy, manufacturing, or utilities industries.

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.

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.

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 learning safety protocols, operating procedures, and gaining hands-on experience, which can vary in difficulty depending on prior knowledge and training opportunities.

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 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,508 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Arborist Climber Trainee

Bartlett Tree Experts

Charlottesville, VA

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Bartlett Tree Experts rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 36 rated gardening and landscaping

Job description

If you enjoy working outdoors in a professional and safe environment, consider a career with Bartlett Tree Experts! At Bartlett, we value a strong culture of excellence in safety, scientific research, lifelong learning, and career development.

As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will be an integral member of a tree care crew working alongside Bartlett's dedicated team of arborists, gaining practical field experience in scientific tree and shrub care on commercial and residential properties. This is a unique entry-level opportunity to develop your career in arboriculture through hands-on, on-the-job training.


We offer competitive compensation, as well as:

  • A safety-first culture and professional workplace
  • Advancement opportunities - we promote from within
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401k retirement plan
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Industry credential/license pay increases - we encourage and invest in your professional development
  • Company provided uniforms, PPE, gear, and equipment
  • Boot reimbursement up to $150
  • Employee referral bonus program
  • Access to training, continuing education programs, and a variety of resources provided by the Bartlett Tree Experts Research Laboratories in Charlotte, NC

To find out more about what life is like at Bartlett, check us out on Instagram @LifeatBartlett. 


As an Arborist Climber Trainee, you will play an important role in:

  • Learning through on-the-job training to safely perform all aspects of arboriculture, including:
    • Tree climbing
    • Pruning
    • Rigging
    • Cabling and bracing
    • Removal of hazardous trees
    • Tree identification
    • Properly maintaining and operating equipment (hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and aerial lifts)
    • Implementing work zone safety procedures
    • Assisting Arborist Climbers and Arborist Crew Leaders working on the ground and aloft
    • Assisting with driving, backing, dumping, and parking duties
  • Learning, understanding, and adhering to all safety rules and company safety policies

  • A passion for nature, the environment, and the outdoors
  • Interest in working outdoors year-round in all weather conditions
  • Valid driver's license
  • A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and ability to work on a multi-disciplinary team
  • Prior tree care, landscaping, forestry, turf care, or horticulture experience is preferred but not required
  • Degree in Arboriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Turfgrass, Environmental Science, Plant Science, Outdoor Recreation, Agriculture or a related field is preferred but not required

The F. A. Bartlett Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.


Charlottesville
VA
Production Arborist
7/16/2026
Regular Full-Time

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