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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE WITH THIS ONLINE JOB APPLICATION PROCESS, PLEASE CALL 336-271-8251. Position ... Trainees work closely with skilled welders, machines operators, and experienced industrial painters ...

Accurately process customer transactions such as orders, quotes or returns * Work closely with ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Accurately process customer transactions such as orders, quotes or returns * Work closely with ... Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

... processes and always acting in a safe manner. * Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures. * Observe all company ...

... processes and always acting in a safe manner. * Complete daily scheduled services, deliveries, and ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures. * Observe all company ...

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Process Operator Trainee information

See Virginia salary details

$25.3K

$43.2K

$63K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in Virginia is $43,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,700.00 and $50,600.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Process Operator Trainee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Process Operator Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 41% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 74% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,157 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Production Operator I - III (Solid Dosage/OSD Manufacturing)

Granules Pharmaceuticals

Chantilly, VA

$18 - $33/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description

*English communication required*


Hiring for 2nd & 3rd shift

2nd shift: 3:00p - 11:30p EST

3rd shift: 11:00a - 7:30a EST 

Must be able to train from 8:30am - 5:00pm EST for 1 month

Flexibility to work Overtime is Required 


JOB SUMMARY

The Production Operator performs functions relating to the processing of drug products, ensuring product compliance to established current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs), customer requirements and in conjunction with all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Follows standard procedures to complete tasks, some of which may vary in scope, sequence, complexity, and timing. Applies skills and knowledge to recognize issues and to increase efficiency, throughput, and quality. Understands and runs processes to meet the assigned standards/routers and fulfills the assigned schedule; when these are not achieved, participates in the debrief to understand the reasons why and what needs to be corrected moving forward. Assists in troubleshooting process issues. Responsible for the safe and efficient execution of job duties.


Production Operator Trainee - Operator I

Pay rate: $18 - $22 / hour 


Production Operator II - III (Skilled Operators)- must have OSD Manufacturing experience

Pay rate: $22 - 33 / hour (Flexible based on experience)


Key Accountabilities:

  • Operates pharmaceutical production machinery and follows the procedures for manufacturing such as weighing, blending, dispensing, mixing, pellet coating, granulating, drying, milling, blending, compressing, Encapsulating, Coating, potent compound, etc. Meets the requirements for use of manufacturing equipment and other commonly used equipment per SOPs.
  • Executes written SOPs to ensure the purity of materials involved in the manufacturing process.
  • Properly uses all scales, including printouts, zeroing, setting tares, and daily calibration verification per SOPs.
  • Examines manufacturer Product ID Labels, Quality Control release tags, and Batch Production Record to verify issued/staged raw materials can be released for production.
  • Cleans manufacturing equipment and facilities according to established SOPs.
  • Executes machine changeovers from batch to batch.
  • May sample batches for quality testing. Executes required in-process product quality checks and documents accurately.
  • Understands and runs processes to meet the assigned schedule and standards/routers; when this is not achieved, participates in the debrief to understand the reasons why and what needs to be corrected moving forward.


Documentation:

  • Completes documentation associated with manufacturing processes (e.g. batch record, protocols, and logbooks) with detail and accuracy.
  • Meets requirements for entries on all applicable Batch Production pages, completion and attachment of all dispensary and weight verification tickets.
  • Verifies the manufacturing process on BPR in an accurate and timely manner.
  • Provides status updates and operational challenges on status boards.

Continuous Improvement:

  • Assists in troubleshooting process issues; refers deviations from standard procedure to the supervisor.
  • Typically participates in at least one continuous improvement project of a moderate scope and complexity.

Safety & Compliance:

  • Adheres to all cGMP compliance/regulatory mandates and quality requirements.
  • Participates in safety teams, start-up discussions, incident debriefing sessions, etc.
  • Ensures compliance with SOPs, policies and procedures as required by the Company and regulatory agencies.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, work area.

Training:

  • Conforms to all training requirements, including company required and machine-specific training.

Teamwork & Collaboration:

  • Contributes to team and project success by sharing previously acquired knowledge.
  • Collaborates typically within own cross-functional work unit and occasionally with contacts outside own unit or department.



Requirements


- Trainee - Level I Operator:

  • HS diploma, GED or College Associate Degree
  • Minimum of 1-3 years experience in a labor intensive environment
  • Forklift certification preferred. 
  • Ability to communicate and comprehend English language both verbally and written

- Level II Operator (OSD/Solid Dose Manufacturing expereince required):

  • HS diploma, GED or College Associate Degree
  • Minimum of 3-7 years of OSD pharmaceutical manufacturing (cGMP) experience
  • Forklift certification preferred.

- Level III Operator (OSD/Solid Dose Manufacturing expereince required):

  • HS Diploma, GED or College Associate Degree
  • Minimum 7+ years of pharmaceutical manufacturing (cGMP) experience and certification in assigned area, as required or proficiency demonstrated in competencies as required.
  • Forklift certification preferred. 

Required Knowledge & Skills for Level II & III

  • Strong background in solid dose manufacturing (OSD)
  • Experience in 1 or more of the following areas: Compression, Granulation, Encapsulation, Wurster Coating, Coating, Fluid Bed Dryers, Bead Tower
  • Capable of cleaning, setting-up, dismantling and operating state of the art tablet presses and encapsulation, i.e., Fette 3200i; Fette P 3030; MG2 planeta; Korsch XM 12.
  • Knowledgeable of FDA regulations, GMP, Lean Manufacturing, Six-Sigma, etc.
  • Solid working knowledge and skills in procedures, techniques, tools, materials and/or equipment needed for the position.
  • Basic math, reading, legible writing skills, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Proficient in sampling batches
  • Ability to participate in Continuous Improvement projects.

Required for all levels:

Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.

Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to stand for long periods of time (up to 12 hour shifts), maneuver at least 50 pounds, climb ladders, wear a respirator and pass associated respirator tests and/or requirements, and be able to wear all required PPE, including safety glasses, ear plugs, and safety shoes.