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Process Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hunt

Process Operator Trainee

Atmore, AL

$12.75 - $16/hr

Maintain process operating parameters within specified safe and allowable ranges * Recognize, troubleshoot, and correct and/or report process issues. * Complete daily production and inventory ...

Hunt

Process Operator Trainee

Atmore, AL · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Maintain process operating parameters within specified safe and allowable ranges * Recognize, troubleshoot, and correct and/or report process issues. * Complete daily production and inventory ...

ASRC

Refinery Operator Trainee

North Pole, AK · On-site

The trainee program is a three-step process leading from Trainee 1, Trainee 2 and Trainee 3. Operator Trainee 3's that successfully complete their training program will have an opportunity to advance ...

MNP

Machine Operator Trainee

Utica, MI

$14.75 - $18/hr

MNP controls the complete manufacturing process from the annealing of the raw coiled steel through ... About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level ...

MNP

Machine Operator Trainee

Utica, MI · On-site

$20/hr

MNP controls the complete manufacturing process from the annealing of the raw coiled steel through ... About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level ...

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Process Operator Trainee information

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$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Process Operator Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Process Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification in a relevant field. Familiarity with process control systems, safety protocols, and equipment monitoring tools is important, often gained through on-the-job training or programs like OSHA certification. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help trainees excel and adapt to dynamic plant environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of industrial facilities.

What are some common challenges Process Operator Trainees may encounter during their training period?

Process Operator Trainees often face challenges such as adapting to shift work schedules, learning complex control systems, and understanding safety protocols in industrial environments. The steep learning curve can be daunting, especially when troubleshooting equipment or responding to unexpected process deviations. However, trainees are typically supported by experienced mentors and structured training programs to help them build confidence and competence over time.

What are Process Operator Trainees?

Process Operator Trainees are entry-level employees who learn how to monitor, control, and maintain equipment and systems in industries such as manufacturing, chemical processing, or energy production. They work under the supervision of experienced operators to gain hands-on experience with safety protocols, machinery operation, and troubleshooting. The goal is to prepare them for full Process Operator roles, where they ensure the smooth and safe running of industrial processes.

What is the difference between Process Operator Trainee vs Process Operator?

AspectProcess Operator TraineeProcess Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; additional certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning phaseFull-time, operational environment, responsible for daily processes
Employer UsageEntry-level position for training purposesFull-fledged role managing production processes

The Process Operator Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining experience under supervision, while the Process Operator is a fully responsible role managing daily operations. Trainees typically undergo training before becoming Process Operators, making the roles sequential in career development.

More about Process Operator Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Process Operator Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Process Operator Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Process Operator Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Process Operator Trainee jobs include:
Process Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 9% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Process Operator Trainee

Process Operator Trainee

Hunt

Atmore, AL

$12.75 - $16/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Trains with the Process Operator on the following duties and responsibilities:

  • Conduct field inspections to ensure that operational conditions align with DCS reflected conditions
  • Maintain process operating parameters within specified safe and allowable ranges
  • Recognize, troubleshoot, and correct and/or report process issues.
  • Complete daily production and inventory (material and energy balance) reports
  • Provide supervision and support to Lab and Load Operators

Education and Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED required. Technical or trade school education preferred
  • Minimum of one year's experience in a refinery environment or related industry
  • Strong knowledge of safe work practices, hazard awareness, and hazard mitigation. 
  • Ability to have a good working relationship with Process Operators, Load Rack Operators, Lab Operators, supervisors, engineers and HSE.
  • Open-minded and willing to accept change. 
  • Good communication skills (written and verbal) and the ability to lead group discussions. 
  • Proficient in the use of personal computers and office software applications
  • Self-motivated with desire to learn and develop new skills.
  • Support management objectives.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

  • Valid driver's license.

Language Skills

  • Ability to speak and read English fluently.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with operators, engineers, supervisors, managers, etc. 

 Physical Demands

  • The physical demands of this position are listed in the following tables:

                                                                                                                                Amount of Time

    Under 1/3 to Over   None 1/3 2/3 2/3 Stand     X   Walk     X   Sit     X   Use hands to finger, handle, or feel     X   Reach with hands and arms     X   Climb or balance   X     Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl   X     Talk or hear       X Taste or smell     X  

                                                                                                                                Amount of Time

Lifting:   Under 1/3 to Over   None 1/3 2/3 2/3 Up to 10 pounds     X   Up to 25 pounds   X     Up to 50 pounds   X     Up to 100 pounds X       More than 100 pounds X      

Work Environment

  • The environmental conditions for this position are listed in the following table:

                                                                                                                                Amount of Time

    Under 1/3 to Over   None 1/3 2/3 2/3 Wet or humid conditions (non-weather)   X     Work near moving mechanical parts     X   Work in high, precarious places   X     Flammable or caustic chemicals     X   Outdoor weather conditions       X Extreme hot/cold (weather related)   X     Extreme cold (non-weather) X       Extreme heat (non-weather)   X     Risk of electrical shock   X     Work with explosives X       Risk of radiation   X     Vibration   X    
  • Noise - This position requires work in loud, high noise areas. 
  • This position requires the individual to be certified to use respiratory protection which includes: fresh air work requiring a full-face mask and a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) weighing up to 35 lbs. Conditions during use could be routine maintenance or operations activities, emergency rescue or immediate danger of life and health. Use of such a device requires sufficient pulmonary and respiratory health and may preclude full beards or other obstructions preventing an adequate facial fit. 

The Hunt family of companies are a privately owned group of entities that include oil and gas exploration and production, refining, LNG, power, renewables, real estate, ranching and infrastructure. The mission of Hunt is to be a growth-oriented industry leader respected throughout the world for the quality and competency of its people, the efficiency and scope of its operations, and its rich heritage of honesty and integrity.


For 75 years, Hunt Refining Company has built a reputation of excellence by safely producing high-quality products, including transportation fuels and asphalt products, to meet the needs of its customers. Hunt Refining Company owns and operates a refinery in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and its subsidiary, Hunt Southland Refining Company, LLC, owns and operates a refinery in Sandersville, Mississippi. Hunt Refining and Hunt Southland Refining Company, LLC, also operate transportation, terminal and storage facilities in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee that allow products to reach several major markets in the southeastern United States

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