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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

As an entry level Resin Operator Trainee within the Coatings R&D department at the Springdale R&D ... Perform in-process testing and recording all observations. * Run batches with less guidance as ...

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Process Operator Trainee information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$25.6K

$43.6K

$63.7K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in Pennsylvania is $43,635.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,100.00 and $51,100.00 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 Pennsylvania?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,635 per year, or $21 per hour.

Resin Operator Trainee, Rotating Shifts

Springdale, PA • On-site

PPG Industries, Inc.
Construction Materials Wholesalers • 10K+ employees

$48K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

As an entry level Resin Operator Trainee within the Coatings R&D department at the Springdale R&D Development Center, you have math skills and mechanical aptitude who is looking for hands-on training in resin manufacturing. You will provide foundational exposure to resin reactors, associated equipment, and the handling of both hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals. It includes training in safety protocols, operating procedures, and the use of forklifts, with the ultimate goal of becoming a qualified resin operator. You will report to the trainer, Senior Operator, and Team Leader.
*This is a bi-weekly rotating shift position*
  • 1st Shift (Day) Monday - Friday 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
  • 2nd Shift (Afternoon) Monday - Friday 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • 3rd Shift (Night) Sunday - Thursday 11:00 PM - 7:00 AM

Pay Breakdown:
  • $48,880 Salary Non-Exempt
  • $1.50 Shift Differential (Afternoon)
  • $2.00 Shift Differential (Night)
  • Wage will Increase roughly $5,000 after 6 months training period
  • $1,000 sign-on bonus after 180 days
  • PPG offers excellent Medical, Dental, & Vision Benefits; matching 401k + retirement savings; and Paid Vacation, Holiday pay.

Key Responsibilities
  • Assist trainers in producing resin batches under guidance.
  • Follow batch instructions including:
    • Read and comprehend resin logs.
    • Prepare equipment (cleanup, valve setups, temperature settings).
    • Charge raw materials to vessels, initiating reactions, and monitoring temperature/pressure.
    • Perform in-process testing and recording all observations.
  • Run batches with less guidance as experience increases.
  • Independently perform clean-up tasks such as cleaning reactor vessels, lines, pumps, and surrounding areas.
  • Prepare shift relief documentation and handle toxic raw materials during different processes under guidance.
  • Learn the functionality and operation of different reactor systems and related equipment.
  • Work with team leaders, engineers, chemists, QA staff, and others to coordinate production activities and scheduling.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Must pass the Resin Operator Test Battery.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and math skills.
  • Ability to work rotating shifts and perform physically demanding tasks (e.g., moving 55-gallon drums and 50-80 lb bags).
  • Must wear personal protective equipment, including respirators and suits.
  • Willingness to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather and around potentially irritating fumes.

#LI-onsite
About us:
PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD™
Through leadership in innovation, sustainability and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com and follow @PPG on X.
The PPG Way 2030
We are customer champions
Proactive. Bold. Trustworthy. Everything we do starts with our customers. We listen, move fast and don't stop until we solve their biggest challenges. When our customers win, we all grow.
We act with purpose and speed
Agile. Data-driven. Empowered. We take smart risks to stay ahead of the competition. We work proactively with agility, using quality data to develop solutions that create value.
We are excellent operators
Productive. Collaborative. Accountable. No matter our role, we identify problems, take ownership and always bring solutions. We are both proactive and responsive to drive continuous improvement and deliver results. We support our frontline, the faces of PPG to our customers.
We compete to win
Future-focused. Driven. Ambitious. We are passionate about growing our business and winning with our customers. We deliver results, embrace new technologies and leverage agility and speed as strengths.
We are PPG proud
Strong. United. Passionate. We work safely, act with integrity and value our diverse perspectives. We celebrate achievements and take pride in the positive impact we create together to protect and beautify the world.
At PPG we use AI in the hiring process to make the process more efficient. AI tools do not make hiring decisions. You can learn more by going to https://careers.ppg.com/us/en/candidate-resources.
PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
If you need an adjustment due to a disability, please email recruiting@ppg.com.
PPG pay ranges and benefits can vary by location which allows us to compensate employees competitively in different geographic markets. PPG considers several factors in making compensation decisions including, but not limited to, skill sets, experience and training, qualifications and education, licensure and certifications, and other organizational needs. Other incentives may apply.
Our employee benefits programs are designed to support the health and well-being of our employees. Any insurance coverages and benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents. Benefits will be discussed with you by your recruiter during the hiring process.
PPG values your feedback on our recruiting process. We encourage you to visit Glassdoor.com and provide feedback on the process, so that we can do better today than yesterday.