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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Dispensary Pharmacy Tech

Fredericksburg, 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 ...

Dispensary Pharmacy Tech

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

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

Dispensary Pharmacy Tech

Staunton, VA

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Dispensary Pharmacy Tech

Staunton, 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 ...

$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 ...

$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 ...

$16.25 - $19.50/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 ...

Dispensary Pharmacy Tech

Staunton, VA

$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 ...

Showing results 41-60

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 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:

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.

Dispensary Pharmacy Tech (Full-time)

AYR Wellness

Winchester, VA • On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 29 days ago


Ayr Wellness rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 33 rated cannabis dispensaries


Job description

Description
Position at Ayr Wellness
Company Description
Ayr Wellness is a leading U.S. multi-state cannabis operator with more than 90 licensed retail locations across Florida, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Jersey, Nevada, and Virginia. We cultivate, manufacture, and sell a broad portfolio of high-quality cannabis products, proudly serving both medical patients and adult-use consumers across our markets.
At Ayr, our strength lies in our people. We're re-imagining how we work across every part of our business, and we're looking for builders and doers to roll up their sleeves and help shape what's next. The cannabis industry is fast-moving, complex, and full of opportunity. At Ayr you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact while growing your career alongside a company positioning itself for long-term success.
Job Summary
The Dispensary Pharmacy Technician works closely with Pharmacists to provide exceptional patient care. This role is responsible for consulting with qualified patients and caregivers and, under the supervision of a pharmacist, administering approved medical marijuana products. The Dispensary Pharmacy Technician also supports patient identification and registration, record retention, product tracking, and inventory control.
Duties and Responsibilities
• Monitor and resolve problems in the prescription fulfillment process
• Promote and maintain the dispensary's professional reputation and provide patients and customers with pharmacy products and services
• Assist the Pharmacist in filling prescription items, as permitted by the state
• Label products appropriately
• Input patient data and medication orders into the POS system
• Enter prescription data into applicable state systems
• Support all aspects of patient and customer service in a retail dispensary environment
• Maintain patient records, product tracking, and inventory control
Qualifications
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Must maintain an active State Pharmacy Technician license
• At least one year of experience working as a pharmacy technician
• Customer-facing experience strongly preferred
• Candidates must demonstrate the highest ethical standards
• Strong customer service mindset with a focus on patient care
• Ability to foster a supportive, collaborative, and productive environment
• Weekend availability required
Education
• Pharmacy Technician certification required
• Must maintain an active State Pharmacy Technician license
Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Working Conditions
This person may be exposed to cannabis plant material, kief, cleaning chemicals, and fumes. Although systems are in place to remove these byproducts, there is still exposure to some degree. This role operates in a licensed Virginia cannabis dispensing facility subject to state regulatory oversight and inspection at any time.
Physical Requirements
• Sitting, standing, and walking motion/movement required throughout the shift
• Ability to remain on feet for extended periods in a retail dispensary environment
• Occasional lifting or moving items up to 25 pounds
Virginia Regulatory Compliance Notice
This position operates within a Virginia-licensed cannabis dispensing facility and is subject to all applicable requirements under Virginia Code Title 4.1, Chapter 16, Virginia Board of Pharmacy regulations (3VAC10-30), and oversight by the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority. All activities must be performed under the personal, on-premises supervision of a licensed pharmacist. The Pharmacist-in-Charge is responsible for determining the number of interns, technicians, and trainees who can be safely and competently supervised at one time, not to exceed six persons performing pharmacy technician duties simultaneously, per Virginia Code § 4.1-1602(M).
Equal Opportunity Employer
Ayr Wellness is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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