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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various process streams and chemicals used. Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various operating equipment in the area. Learns and/or knows how to ...

Operator Trainee

Tuscaloosa, AL · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

... various process streams and chemicals used. • Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various operating equipment in the area. • Learns and/or knows how to access Safety Data Sheet ...

... processes and always acting in a safe manner * Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

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... processes and always acting in a safe manner * Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

New

... processes and always acting in a safe manner * Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

New

... process but are not used as a replacement for human decision making. Clean Harbors is committed to ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

New

... processes and always acting in a safe manner * Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

New

... processes and always acting in a safe manner * Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

New

... processes and always acting in a safe manner * Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

New

... processes and always acting in a safe manner * Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

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Process Operator Trainee information

See Alabama salary details

$23.1K

$39.5K

$57.6K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in Alabama is $39,455.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29,900.00 and $46,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of an operator trainee?

A process operator trainee is responsible for learning how to operate and monitor industrial equipment and systems, often under supervision. They gain skills in safety procedures, equipment operation, and troubleshooting, typically working in manufacturing or processing plants. Training may include classroom instruction and hands-on experience with tools and control systems.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Process Operator Trainee typically does not earn $10,000 a month without experience or advanced certifications. High-paying roles in industries like oil and gas, mining, or chemical processing may reach that level for experienced operators with specialized skills and certifications, but entry-level trainees usually earn lower wages. Achieving such income generally requires years of experience, technical training, and sometimes union membership or licensing.

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.

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.

How to become a process operator with no experience?

To become a process operator trainee with no experience, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should demonstrate basic technical skills and a willingness to learn. Employers often provide on-the-job training and may require certifications such as OSHA safety training or process technology courses. Gaining familiarity with industrial equipment and safety procedures can improve chances of entry into the role.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay around $2,000 a day typically include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, certain medical specialists, high-level consultants, and skilled trades like commercial pilots or oil and gas process operators. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-demand industries with premium compensation structures.

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 the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Process Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Process Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in Alabama as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 25% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,455 per year, or $19 per hour.
Operator Trainee

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Safety:
Follows all company safety policies and procedures.
Participates in Emergency Drill Parties.
Learns and/or knows Hunt Refining Company's safety policies and their use in all work activities (Example- LOTO).
Learns and/or knows locations of fire monitors, extinguishers, hose reels, fire hydrants, emergency showers, eye wash station, self-contained breathing apparatus and any other safety related items.
Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various process streams and chemicals used.
Learns and/or knows hazards associated with various operating equipment in the area.
Learns and/or knows how to access Safety Data Sheet Information.
Responds to callouts and emergency situations.
Helps keep the unit and equipment clean and hazard free.
Learns to become proficient with all power failure procedures.
Learns to become proficient with all field related emergency procedures.
Communication:
Gives their relief a concise, accurate verbal summary of what happened on the shift and anything that may require attention, including MOC's and all applicable training. Asks adequate questions, if receiving shift turnover, to verify understanding before reporting for duty.
Gives and receives verbal, written and electronic communication effectively and in a positive manner.
Communicates clearly, precisely, and effectively over the radio.
Checks email periodically throughout the shift.
Reads and follows all applicable guidelines or procedures including MOC's and all applicable training.
Reviews unit operation from previous shifts by reading logs and electronic communication.
Communicates any process variations which affect other areas.
Records daily activities and adjustments in the electronic log as required.


Procedures and Training:
Stays up to date with online EHS training, refresher training on procedures, security training, etc.
Learns and/or knows location of all written policies and procedures and Company documents that pertain to the area on the Company Intranet.
Continually improves process and safety knowledge.
Learns and/or knows equipment descriptions and their locations.
Supports and participates as needed with OJT and any training in their Unit Processing area.
Operational Area:
Responds to callouts and emergency situations.
Learns and/or knows Unit trips, set points, and permissives to restart the after a safety system is activated.
Assists the Console Operator and Unit Leader in troubleshooting activities.
Minimizes hydrocarbon and excess water to water treatment plant.
Seeks clarification when guidelines and procedures are unclear or in conflict with other instructions.
Diligently works toward meeting guideline targets and refinery goals.
Ensures unit and equipment are operated within specified limits.
Performs any task requested by supervision.
Writes work orders as needed and notifies the Unit Leader.
Learns and/or understands the safe heater lighting steps and BMS panel operation and trips for all heaters. Provides feedback to the Console Operator when lighting the heaters in the field.
Works to positively address any operating or personnel issues that arise.
Must learn to isolate and prepare all field equipment for maintenance.
Performs needed maintenance on shift as necessary.
Obtains samples for the lab as necessary.
Routinely samples process gases for H2S.
Makes routine field adjustments to maintain process conditions, flows, levels, pressures, and temperatures.
Takes inventory of lube oil and chemicals and orders as needed.
Blows down level glasses or float chambers, to check a level.
Checks the cooling tower screens and have cleaned as necessary.
Adjusts the boiler's continuous blow down line and daily performs a manual blow down.
Maintains the given injection rate of chemicals into the process streams.
Monitors lab reports and sets and maintains chemical addition or proper treatment of boiler feed water and cooling tower water.
Checks steam traps, steam tracing, and water for proper winterization.
Check color on product streams as necessary.
Monitors fin-fans for freeze protection in cold weather.
Controls the level of water or hydrocarbon accumulation by periodic draining.
Switches pumps, purges or switches compressors online without interruption of the process when necessary.
Starts/stops or resets electric motors as necessary.
Puts control valve on bypass as necessary.
Performs heater activities such as using snuffing steam to purging heaters, lighting gas pilots and burners, adjusting primary and secondary air registers, adjusting dampers for fuel efficiency, using O2 analyzer to adjust for best efficiency, and inspecting heater boxes for flame impingement or possible tube damage.
Checks DCS indications against local instruments to verify readings.
Takes inventory of Nitrogen (N2) bottles and reports what is needed to Unit Leader (does not apply to C&R employees).
Bypasses water softener system when necessary (does not apply to C&R or Oil Movement employees).
Lines up city water and well water as necessary (does not apply to C&R or Oil Movement employees).
Lights and adjusts steam to the flare and checks K/O drums for proper operation and drainage as necessary.
Lines up charge tanks and product rundown to various product tanks and lines up slop lines if necessary.
Establishes alternate cooling in the glycol circulation system for compressor cooling, as necessary (Does not apply to C&R employees).
Must be able to troubleshoot all treated water fixed equipment.
Checks operating equipment for any abnormal conditions as it relates to the following: Pumps: noise, temperature, discharge pressure, vibration, seal leaks, lubrication, seal flush, bearings; Compressors: noise, temperature, discharge pressure, vibration, lubrication, packing, and cooling system; Fans: noise, temperature, vibration, lubrication, bearing, and belts. Reports anything abnormal to Unit Leader.
Education and Qualifications
High School diploma or equivalent.
Capable of performing basic maintenance tasks.
Must have the initiative to work toward refinery goals.
Demonstrates ability to troubleshoot operations problems.
Has a good working relationship with Unit Leaders, Console and Field Operators, Operations Specialists, Shift Superintendents Area Superintendents, and Engineers.
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
Valid Driver's License
Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Computer Skills
Demonstrates basic knowledge of Microsoft Office
Proficiently utilizes and navigates software required to complete the daily, routine business of HRC