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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Merced

WWTP OIT/I/II/III

Merced, CA · On-site

$52.06K - $85.40K/yr

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISITICS WWTP Operator Trainee This is the entry level in the Wastewater ... May operate computers for process control and monitor Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition ...

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Process Operator Trainee information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in California is $42,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Process Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in California with the most Process Operator Trainee job openings:
Process Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 43% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 25% Physical, 25% Hybrid, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Lay Up Operator Trainee (84841)

Lay Up Operator Trainee (84841)

The Gill Corporation

El Monte, CA • On-site

$22.15 - $26.69/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Who We Are:
The Gill Corporation is one of the world's largest manufacturers of honeycomb, high performance floor panels, cargo compartment liners and original equipment for passenger and freighter aircraft. The company also excels in many other types of reinforced plastics including interior sandwich panels for creating structures such as aircraft galleys and bulkheads, honeycomb core and related products.
The Gill Corporation is seeking a Lay Up Operator Trainee who can assist the Lay Up Operator to assemble precut material slices (Balsa, Aluminum, Nomex) into panels or liners.
Reporting to the Production Supervisor, they will perform but not be limited to the following responsibilities.
Responsibilities:
  • Reads the GPS prior to start of the work order.
  • Reviews work order for any Special Instructions.
  • Assists in the layup panels and liners per GPS.
  • Assist Layup Operator and follow their instructions in Setup, Assembly, Change Over of materials
  • Assist presses for loading and unloading.
  • Ensure that all materials used are within shelf-life requirements.
  • Performs basic visual quality inspections on materials to ensure they are within spec
  • Reports any defective materials or questionable conditions to the Operator, Lead or Supervisor
  • Make sure that core inside the oven is the correct core for the work order.
  • Uses Micrometer to measure thickness of core to ensure it is within the tolerance
  • Utilize hand and power tools as needed to perform the duties
  • Maintain the work area and equipment in a clean and orderly condition.
  • Maintain a safe work environment
  • Other duties assigned by production supervisor or manager

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required Qualifications:
  • Must have a high school diploma, GED or equivalency
  • 6 months to one year of experience in a fast-paced environment
  • Must be available to work any shift, over-time and weekends.
  • Must be able to work in a team environment, ie follow instructions
  • Bend, Twist, and Stand for 8-10 hours a day in extreme heat or cold
  • Use hands for simple and power grasping as well as push/pull and fine manipulation
  • Be willing to work in a manufacturing environment
  • Basic Math Skills: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division
  • Accurately uses and understands how to read a measuring tape
  • Effectively communicate information and respond to questions from various levels of the organization
  • Acceptable Spirometry Test results (full/ half respirator use).
  • Must be able to lift, push and pull a minimum of 50 lbs.

ITAR Requirement:
This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations ("ITAR") and/or the Export Administration Regulations ("EAR"). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and the EAR. A "U.S. person" according to their definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee, or asylee.
The Gill Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants for all job openings are welcome and will be considered without regard to race, religious creed, color, age, sex, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, military service, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, or any other classification protected by federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.
The Gill Corporation provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disability Act and applicable state and local law. If you require an accommodation in the application process, please notify the Human Resources Department

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