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Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Overview The role of the Operations Manager Trainee (OMT) is to gain an understanding of the skills ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

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Process Operator Trainee information

See Portland, OR salary details

$27.1K

$46.2K

$67.4K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in Portland, OR is $46,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,000.00 and $54,100.00 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.

How to become a process operator trainee with no experience?

To become a process operator trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Employers often provide on-the-job training and may require basic technical skills or familiarity with safety procedures; some positions may also prefer candidates with a background in math or science. Certification in safety or process operations can improve chances, but many companies train entry-level applicants without prior experience.

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 do process operator trainees do?

Process operator trainees learn to monitor and control industrial processes in manufacturing or chemical plants. They operate equipment, follow safety protocols, and gain skills in process control systems, often working under supervision to ensure efficient and safe plant operations.

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.
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in Portland, OR 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 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,179 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Maintenance Shop Supervisor Trainee (Onsite Portland, OR)

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.

Portland, OR • On-site

$62K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Old Dominion Freight Line rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 163 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 64 rated delivery companies


Job description

Are you someone who never rests on their laurels, always strives to go above and beyond, and is committed to keeping your PROMISES? Do you appreciate a company culture that is open, fosters work-life balance, and a dynamic team environment? Then Old Dominion is the home for you. We take pride in being the best in the industry, and from our humble beginnings we know that our People and our Family Spirit are the main ingredient in our secret sauce to success. At Old Dominion we are looking for individuals to join the OD Family that will provide innovative solutions and exceed expectations to keep OD the premier transportation solutions provider.

The Maintenance Trainee will receive hands on training in all wage and salaried jobs to learn to manage a shift or an operational area in a Maintenance Shop. Once hands-on training is competed in each area the trainee fills in as a supervisor on various shifts and departments. The trainee will learn to manage a shift while emphasizing safety, quality, efficiency, service and delivery. The trainee also completes assignments while being assessed through knowledge indicators, writing papers, viewing management videos, recommending process improvements on operating procedures. Participates in ODTDT/Class B Training program to receive a CDL/Class B license, participates in forklift training program and management/leadership training courses as scheduled.

Primary Responsibilities (Additional duties may be assigned by management and to adhere to all company policies and procedures)

  • Complete shift manager's training as an understudy with an experienced manager
  • Complete maintenance job training knowledge and production exercises on all jobs within the shop
  • Fill in as a supervisor on various shifts and departments
  • Complete department/area knowledge indicators and develop new indicators and process and procedure changes
  • Work with parts manager and shop supervisor to ensure a timely repair of equipment
  • Assist in the formation of shop budget
  • Write and submit monthly activity reports
  • Assign work to employees according to daily schedule
  • Make quick and informed decisions based on the volume levels and communicates schedule to affected employees
  • Inspect working conditions of tools and equipment needed for safe operation within the area and direct the correction of any improper or adverse condition that exists
  • Answer employee questions regarding company policy
  • Attend training sessions and meetings
  • Must be open to relocation when trainee program is completed

Job Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering/Technology preferred
  • Maintenance Degree Program or a two-year Technical degree with applicable experience accepted

Travel Required:

  • 15%. The trainee travels to various Maintenance locations to learn the processes and supervise in a different environment.

Experience:

  • Good working knowledge of computer/PC software (WORD, EXCEL)
  • Good verbal and written communications skills
  • Solid work history (if applicable)

Compensation Range:

The referenced salary range is based on the Company's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level, and state/local wage requirements.

$62,400 - $65,520

Working Days:

Shift and hours to be determined.

Working Shift:

Shift and hours to be determined.

Work Days and Shift are estimates and are subject to change, at any given time, based on job scheduling and/or business levels. Any information listed regarding Days and Shifts shall be considered a guideline of expectations for the specific position at the time of posting.

Join the OD Family Today!
As a Full Time member of our Family, you and your family are eligible to receive:

  • Great Health Benefits including a Zero premium medical plan for employee only coverage
  • Vision & Dental
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Flex Spending Accounts
  • 401k Retirement plan with company match and additional company annual discretionary match opportunity
  • Life Insurance
  • Wellness Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement for Drivers and Technicians
  • Training and growth opportunities to build a career
  • We prioritize our OD family of employees
  • Ability to advance through our promote from within philosophy
  • National Career Opportunities Available at our 260+ service centers

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, and/orgender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information,military status, Vietnam Era and/or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law(s).

If you have questions regarding this posting or require assistance with the application process, please click here for contact information.


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About Old Dominion Freight

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Old Dominion Freight Line, often referred to as Old Dominion or ODFL, is based out of Thomasville, North Carolina, in the United States and operates within the industry of Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) carrier services. Their services include regional, super-regional, and intrastate domestic shipping, assembly and distribution, container delivery, truckload brokerage, supply chain consulting, and expedited freight delivery. Established in 1934, Old Dominion has grown from a single truck running a 94-mile route in Virginia to a leading national LTL carrier with over 235 service centres.

Industry

Trucking

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Thomasville, NC, US

Year founded

1934