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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

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Plant Operator Trainee information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$30.1K

$52.2K

$84.2K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Milwaukee, WI is $52,181.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $58,600.00 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 Milwaukee, WI?

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Milwaukee, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:

Plant Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,181 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Mechanic Training Program - Production Operator

Silgan

Kenosha, WI • On-site

$25.70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Silgan Holdings rating

5.5

Company rating: 5.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

112th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Mechanic Trainee / Operator - Grow Your Career With Us
Looking to build a long-term career, not just find another job? We're proud to offer a culture of advancement and growth-we promote from within.
Start as an Operator and gain hands-on experience while developing your mechanical skills. If you demonstrate strong performance and mechanical aptitude, you may have the opportunity to advance into a Mechanic role in as little as six months.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone eager to learn, grow, and build a career in a supportive, team-oriented environment. If you're reliable, motivated, and ready to take the next step, we want to hear from you.
Starting pay of $25.70 per hour plus $0.50 shift differential for 2nd shift, $1.00 for 3rd
2nd Shift- 3PM - 11:30PM M- F
3rd Shift- 11PM - 7:30AM, starts Sunday evening at 11:30 PM and last shift ends Friday morning at 7:30 AM
Continuous Shift - 6PM to 6AM, 4 days on and 4 days off
Grow your skills with cross-training
In this role, you'll receive hands-on training across multiple production functions, including machine operation, lift truck operation, and quality inspection. This cross-training provides valuable experience, increases your versatility, supports the needs of the business, and creates opportunities for career growth within our manufacturing team.
What we offer you:
  • Starting pay of $25.70 per hour
  • $0.50 shift differential for 2nd shift, $1.00 for 3rd
  • Overtime available
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including medical and prescription, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, short and long-term disability coverage, prorated vacation and 10 paid holidays, 401k with a 3 percent match, HSA available after your first full month
  • Quarterly bonus potential based on safety, waste, quality, and productivity performance
  • Add-on benefits include pet insurance, MSK programs (Hinge Health and Regenexx) telemedicine, Livongo for diabetes and hypertension, and more
  • Culture of advancement and growth - 40 percent of plant management were promoted from within
  • We invest in you with on-the-job training, classes, and tuition reimbursement as needed
  • An opportunity to work in our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility with a multi-cultural and diverse team
  • We care about your safety, which means we do what is needed to protect our employees and that's reflected in our "Drive to Zero Injuries" initiative results.
  • Kenosha is Silgan's first facility to achieve zero waste to landfill in 2020.

What you'll do:
  • Maintenance of lift truck and yard truck, including daily OSHA inspections and documentation of such.
  • Understand and follow safe charging and refueling of lift trucks and yard trucks.
  • Use and follow proper lift truck aisles.
  • Assist with cycle counts and inventory.
  • Maintain a clean and neat warehouse.
  • Run the Palletizer
  • Perform quality product checks
  • Other duties as assigned by management.

We need you to have:
  • Ability to earn and maintain Lift Truck Operators license. Electric lift trucks will be used for moving product in warehouse and to load/unload shipments.
  • Must operate all equipment making safety and quality a priority.
  • Ability to follow verbal and written directions. Must be able to read and understand Shipping Orders, Bills of Lading, Packing Slips, Invoices, etc.

Who we are:
  • America's largest metal food packaging producer.
  • A company that strives toward sustainability by reducing our carbon footprint, selecting like-minded suppliers, and providing recyclable products.

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.
All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.
Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.
Silgan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or the presence of a disability, which would not prevent the performance of essential job duties with, or without reasonable accommodation of any other protective status.
Silgan is a drug-free workplace.
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.
All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.
Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.
Silgan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or the presence of a disability, which would not prevent the performance of essential job duties with, or without reasonable accommodation of any other protective status.
Silgan is a drug-free workplace.

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