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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Maxim Crane Works LP

Sales Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Learn crane selection principles, lift planning fundamentals, and project coordination processes ... Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and operating standards. * Perform other duties ...

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Process Operator Trainee information

See Arizona salary details

$23.8K

$40.6K

$59.2K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in Arizona is $40,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,800.00 and $47,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 Arizona? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Arizona are:
Process Operator Trainee jobs near you
Leach Operator Trainee - Hydromet

Leach Operator Trainee - Hydromet

Freeport McMoRan

Bagdad, AZ • On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 137 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 32 rated mining

Job description

At Freeport-McMoRan, we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you'll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career. Apply Today! 

Where You Will Work 

Looking to live in a small town with big opportunities? Our Bagdad operations in Arizona offers housing at a subsidized rate, a family-friendly atmosphere and numerous amenities including an aquatic center, golf course and fitness center.Located 100 miles northwest of Phoenix, Bagdad is home to the world's first commercial - scale concentrate leach processing facility, as well as one of the longest continuously operating solvent extraction/electrowinning plants in the world.Visit theBagdad town website to learn more.

What You Will Do
  • Safely performs duties related to the electro-winning process and maintenance of electrolytic cells. 
  • May assist with and perform cell maintenance such as, draining cells, inspecting for damage, fixing leaks, hydro-blasting, cleaning, repairing/replacing level boxes, and replacing buffer sheets and boards 
  • May assist with and perform 
    • Harvesting of copper cathodes 
    • Blank maintenance 
    • Cathode pressing 
    • Shipping of copper cathodes 
  • May assist with and perform various tasks such as cutting cathode samples, washing down cell lines, and scrap processing 
  • May operate mobile equipment such as overhead cranes and forklifts 
  • May assist maintenance personnel in performing routine and non-routine equipment maintenance activities 
  • Perform area housekeeping 
  • Perform other duties as required 
What You Bring To Freeport
  • Three (3) months experience in one of the following areas: 
    • Mining/Manufacturing 
    • Industrial Operations 
    • Commercial Construction 
    • Commercial Landscaping 
    • Commercial Agriculture 
  • Must have completed academic and practical competencies required (this includes Line of Progression requirements for internal employees where LOP Exists) and have experience demonstrating the required aptitude. The selected candidate shall demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills while also passing a written assessment where required. This exam is based on skills/abilities and/or academic knowledge; as well as safety. 
Preferred Qualifications
  • High School diploma or GED 
  • Willing and able to work in a physical labor-intensive environment, including walking five to ten-plus (5-10+) miles per day in the Tankhouse environment 
  • Experience operating mobile material handling equipment (forklifts, mobile cranes, etc.) 
  • Willing and able to work a rotating shift in a 24/7/265 environment that includes days, nights, weekends, holidays, and both scheduled and unscheduled overtime according to business needs 
  • Willing and able to wear all PPE required, including a full face respirator (which requires a clean shaven face) as may be required by the job duties 
  • Previous relative work experience preferably in the mining industry 

What We Offer You 

The estimated pay range for this role is currently$22.00 - $29.50/hour. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job-related factors. This role is eligible for additional discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on company and individual performance. More details will be shared during the hiring process. Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards Estimate for this role. 

  • Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits 
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance 
  • 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match 
  • Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave 
  • Tuition assistance 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Discounted insurance plans for pet, auto, home and vehicle 
  • Internal progression opportunities 
  • Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package! 

What We Require 

  • Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam. 
  • Candidates must pass all required training and/or testing. 
  • Employees may be required to work a non-standard schedule, which may include shift work (other than day shift) at a 24/7, 365-day operation. 
  • Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on-going drug and alcohol testing, as allowed by applicable laws. 

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Please be advised that Freeport-McMoRan will never request payment for job-related expenses from applicants. If you receive any suspicious emails, please disregard them, and report the incident to HRSC@fmi.com. 

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