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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Freeport McMoRan

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO

$22 - $29.50/hr

Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas * Assist with maintenance ... More details will be shared during the hiring process. Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards ...

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Process Operator Trainee information

See Colorado salary details

$26.8K

$45.8K

$66.8K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in Colorado is $45,773.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,700.00 and $53,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a process operator trainee?

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?

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 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 Colorado?

The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Process Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Process Operator Trainee job openings:

Process Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,773 per year, or $22 per hour.

Mill Operator Trainee

Parshall, CO

Freeport McMoRan
Mining of Natural Resources • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Freeport McMoRanexternal

$22 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

At Climax Molybdenum, 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.    

We accept applications on an ongoing basis.

Where You Will Work 

Our Henderson mine and mill are an hour drive apart - separated by the Continental Divide and a 15-mile conveyor system (10 miles underground). The Henderson mine is an underground molybdenum mining operation located approximately 42 miles west of Denver and 10 miles west of Empire. It has been in operation since 1976 and today consists of a large block-cave, underground mining complex feeding a concentrator with a current capacity of approximately 32,000 metric tons per day. It can produce approximately 15 million pounds of molybdenum per year. The Henderson mill is located 15 miles west of the mine, between Dillon and Kremmling. 

Both sites are surrounded byUS Forest Serviceland of theArapaho National Forest, making it easy for our employees and their families to enjoy year-round hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in the area. Explore the opportunity to advance your career at one of our sites - the Henderson mine or mill and live life at the top! 

Employees who are required to work on-site are eligible for a $1,450 monthly housing allowance, provided they meet program guidelines.

What You Will Do
  • Make guided decisions to support the primary objective of safe production. 
  • Maintain and operate concentrator equipment 
  • Perform detailed inspections of operating equipment and operational areas 
  • Assist with maintenance activities 
  • Complete area housekeeping duties 
  • Learn and understand basic metallurgical milling principles 
  • Perform other tasks as assigned 
What You Bring To Freeport
  • Three (3) months work experience 
  • 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. 
  • Ability to communicate in English with respect to job assignments, job procedures, and applicable safety standards 
  • Knowledge of milling, crushing and conveying equipment. Including operating parameters, limits and functionality of equipment 
Preferred Qualifications

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.

  • Employees who are required to work on-site are eligible for a $1,450 monthly housing allowance, provided they meet program guidelines 
  • 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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