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Plant Operator Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Maintenance Technician

Clayton, NC ยท On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Follow Standard Operating Procedures, Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams, job plans and/or equipment ... Understand industrial plant safety and environment requirements Requirements: Trainee High School ...

QC Tech IV

Raleigh, NC

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Point of contact for plant and QC/QA management. Ensures that the lab runs smoothly and all ... Frequent interactions with operators, engineers, and Quality management for reporting routine ...

QC Tech IV

Raleigh, NC ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Point of contact for plant and QC/QA management. Ensures that the lab runs smoothly and all ... Frequent interactions with operators, engineers, and Quality management for reporting routine ...

Plant Operator Trainee information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$29.6K

$51.5K

$83.1K

How much do plant operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operator trainee in Raleigh, NC is $51,481.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,800.00 and $57,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do plant operators make?

Plant operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in facilities with shift work or hazardous environments.

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 does an operator trainee do?

A plant operator trainee learns to operate and monitor industrial equipment and systems, such as pumps, valves, and control panels, under supervision. They gain skills in safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and process control, often working in manufacturing, power plants, or water treatment facilities. Training typically includes hands-on experience and may require certification or licensing upon completion.

How hard is it to become a plant operator?

Becoming a plant operator trainee typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical coursework. The role often involves learning to operate and monitor equipment, and some positions may require certifications or licenses, which can involve passing exams and gaining experience. The difficulty varies depending on the individual's background and the specific plant's requirements.

What is the highest salary for a plant operator?

The highest salaries for plant operator trainees can reach around $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries such as power plants or manufacturing facilities. Advanced certifications and overtime work can also contribute to higher earnings.

What are Plant Operator Trainees?

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, and why are they important?

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 the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Trainee jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Plant Operator Trainee jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Plant Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Trainee job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,481 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

SFF - Instrumentation Technician Trainee/Tech I

GRIFOLS, S.A.

Clayton, NC โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Would you like to join an international team working to improve the future of healthcare? Do you want to enhance the lives of millions of people? Grifols is a global healthcare company that since 1909 has been working to improve the health and well-being of people around the world. We are leaders in plasma-derived medicines and transfusion medicine and develop, produce and market innovative medicines, solutions and services in more than 110 countries and regions.
Summary:
The Instrumentation Technician is responsible for routine calibration of plant instrumentation and provides troubleshooting of the plant control systems.
Primary responsibilities for role:
  • Calibrate various types of process equipment and control elements to include: electronic, pneumatic, hydraulic, temperature, pressure, level, flow, weight and weighing systems, analytical devices, NIST Standards
  • Troubleshoot and perform corrective maintenance on process equipment and control elements
  • Provide troubleshooting and repair of electrical supply and distribution up to 480v AC
  • Provide troubleshooting and repair of variable frequency drives
  • Provide troubleshooting and repair of servo drives and motors
  • Provide troubleshooting, repair of distributed control systems (Delta V, ABB, SCADA, etc.), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and human machine interface (HMIs)
  • Use a Computerized Maintenance Management System to document work activity
  • Provide detailed documentation of all calibration, troubleshooting, and repair activities.
  • Issue/complete job hazard analysis/safe work permits (hot work, excavating, confined space, hazardous atmosphere, etc.)
  • Adhere to cGMP, Safety and Environmental requirements
  • Follow Standard Operating Procedures, Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams, job plans and/or equipment manuals to perform work
  • Responsible for maintaining training curriculum requirements.
  • Complete required Instrumentation Qualifications
  • Assist with modification, installation and startup of new and existing instrumentation, process control systems and equipment.

Requirements:
Trainee:
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent plus 2 years of experience in maintenance, manufacturing, mechanical trades, or utiliy equipment operation. A technical Associate's degree in place of the experience referenced above.

Tech 1:
  • Associates degree in a relevant technical field
  • 2 years relevant experience
  • Directly related experience or a combination of directly related education and experience and/or competencies may be considered in place of the stated requirements.

SHIFT: 12 Hour Rotating Shift
Occupational Demands:
Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with rotating shifts. Exposure to biological fluids with potential exposure to infectious organisms. Exposure to chemicals, electrical manufacturing equipment, hand tools and moving machinery. Operates forklifts, tractors and power equipment. Exposure to high levels of noise and to dust/gas/fumes/steam. Exposure to extreme cold below 32* and on occasion, exposure to extreme heat above 100*. Exposure to vibration or oscillating movements of the extremities or the whole body. Occasional entry into confined spaces, requiring kneeling, crawling, climbing and squatting. Works at heights on scaffolding and/or on ladders. Walks on uneven ground. Personal protective equipment required such as; protective eyewear, chemical suits, safety shoes and/or rubber footwear, gloves, hearing protection and a respirator. Heavy lifting and carrying of 45lbs. for up to 6-8 hours per day, with a maximum lift of 75lbs. Work is performed standing, walking, bending and twisting waist for 4-6 hours per day. Repetitive foot movements. Occasionally reaches above and below shoulder height. Occasionally bends and twists neck. Repetitive hand movements with simple grasping of one hand with the ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists. Ability to make precise coordinated movements, of the fingers to grasp and manipulate objects. Hearing acuity essential. Color perception/discrimination, depth perception and far vision correctable in one eye to 20/30 and to 20/100 in the other eye. Able to communicate information and ideas so others will understand; with the ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken and written words and sentences. Performs a wide range of complex tasks. Adheres to a work schedule to meet production standards.
Third Party Agency and Recruiter Notice:
Agencies that present a candidate to Grifols must have an active, nonexpired, Grifols Agency Master Services Agreement with the Grifols Talent Acquisition Department. Additionally, agencies may only submit candidates to positions that they have been engaged to work on by a Grifols Recruiter. All resumes must be sent to a Grifols Recruiter under these terms or they will be considered a Grifols candidate.
Grifols provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; sex; gender identity; sexual orientation; religious practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; status as a protected veteran or spouse/family member of a protected veteran; or disability. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants in a manner consistent with the requirements of all applicable laws.
Location: NORTH AMERICA : USA : NC-Clayton:USNC0002 - Clayton
Learn more about Grifols