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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

City of Cookeville

Water Plant Operator Trainee

Baxter, TN · On-site

$20.68 - $28.52/hr

Water Plant Operator Trainee Pay Grade: G Department: Water Quality Control FLSA Status: Non-Exempt ... If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact the ...

Reliance

Crane Operator 2

Nashville, TN · On-site

Retrieves material from storage to load onto processing equipment, trucks, or rail cars. Unloads ... Operators and operator trainees shall meet the following physical qualifications: Have vision of at ...

reliance

Crane Operator 2

Nashville, TN · On-site

Retrieves material from storage to load onto processing equipment, trucks, or rail cars. * Unloads ... and down from crane Operators and operator trainees shall meet the following physical ...

Altium Packaging LLC

Processor Trainee

Sparta, TN · On-site

Location Address: 600 Vista Drive, Sparta, Tennessee 38583 Work Shift: 12hr-B Shift (United States of America) The Processor, Trainee is responsible for operating injection/blow molding machinery to ...

Consolidated Container

Processor Trainee

Sparta, TN · On-site

Location Address: 600 Vista Drive, Sparta, Tennessee 38583 Work Shift: 12hr-B Shift (United States of America) The Processor, Trainee is responsible for operating injection/blow molding machinery to ...

Maxim Crane Works LP

Sales Trainee

Memphis, TN · 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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Showing results 1-20

All JobsProcess Operator JobsProcess Operator Trainee JobsProcess Operator Trainee Jobs in Tennessee

Process Operator Trainee information

See Tennessee salary details

$23.1K

$39.5K

$57.6K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in Tennessee is $39,509.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,000.00 and $46,300.00 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Process Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Process Operator Trainee job openings:
Process Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,509 per year, or $19 per hour.
Water Plant Operator Trainee

Water Plant Operator Trainee

City of Cookeville

Baxter, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Water Plant Operator TraineePay Grade: GDepartment: Water Quality ControlFLSA Status: Non-ExemptReports To: Water Plant Operations SuperintendentSafety Sensitive: YesPosition Supervises: NoDate Approved: 10/2013On-call Required: NoDate Revised: 02/2026

Job description statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job title not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required, and subject to change as approved by the City Manager.

HOURS:

3:00PM - 1:00AM

4 10-Hour Shifts; Must have a flexible schedule. 

JOB SUMMARY:

Employees in this class are under general supervision. Work performed in the operation of a water treatment plant.

Examples of work performed: monitors chlorine residual in finished water; adjusts chlorinator for proper chlorine level; checks and services mechanical and electrical equipment; adds chemicals to and adjusts automatic chemical feeders used in disinfecting and clarifying water; performs laboratory work; maintains buildings and grounds; keeps records and writes reports; performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

General knowledge of the principles and methods of water treatment

General knowledge of Tennessee State standards for water treatment

Ability to perform routine maintenance on mechanical and electrical equipment

Ability to make mathematical calculations

Ability to understand and follow spoken and written instructions

Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with the public and co-workers

Ability to distinguish differences in colors for colorimetric lab test.

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

High school education or equivalent is required. Must possess a valid Tennessee driver's license.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Physical:

Essential functions include duties that include periods of sedentary work within an office as well as periods of strenuous physical labor, including navigating stairs/ladders and cleaning water basins and filters. Must be able to lift objects weighing 100lbs occasionally. Must be able to collect needed lab samples, operate laboratory equipment, conduct tests and write reports.

Environmental:

Frequently exposed to chlorine and other hazardous chemicals. Ability to work in inclement weather.

FULL-TIME BENEFITS SUMMARY:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Paid Life Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Voluntary Benefits
  • Pension and 401k Retirement Savings
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Sick time – 8 hours/month
  • Paid Vacation time – 8 hours/month

City of Cookeville is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Hiring decisions are administered without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Qualified individuals with known disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact the Human Resources division at (931) 520-5256.


Successful applicants must pass a limited background check, pre-employment physical, and drug screen. 

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