ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Process Operator Trainee Jobs in Wood River, IL (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProcess Operator JobsProcess Operator Trainee JobsProcess Operator Trainee Jobs in Wood River, IL

Process Operator Trainee information

See Wood River, IL salary details

$24.5K

$41.7K

$60.9K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in Wood River, IL is $41,745.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,600.00 and $48,900.00 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 cities near Wood River, IL are hiring for Process Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Wood River, IL with the most Process Operator Trainee job openings:

Process Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in Wood River, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,745 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Treatment Plant Operator Trainee I

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Essential Functions:
  • Support 24/7 operations.
  • As a trainee, operate, maintain, and adjust process systems and a variety of pumps, blowers, compressors, conveyors, sludge controls, air diffusers, filters, tanks, collectors, chemical equipment, mixer valves, incinerators, and other mechanical, instrumentation, computer process controls and electrical equipment.
  • Take samples of wastewater and other process flows and perform basic wastewater laboratory analysis.
  • Clean plant units such as bar screens, communutors, grit removal units, heat exchangers, aeration tanks, and equipment chlorinators, sludge pumps and pipe galleries.
  • Replenish chemical solution tanks, unloads chemicals, perform routine plant maintenance and cleaning work.
  • Operate electrical and computer controls, as needed.
  • Keep records.
  • Assist plant's trades employees.
  • Replenish chemical solution tanks.
  • Unload chemicals.
  • Perform routine plant maintenance and cleaning work.
  • Meet requirements of the Wastewater Operator Training Program.

Additional Responsibilities:
Perform related work as required or as delegated by Senior Operators, Team Leaders, and Supervisor.The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District provides comprehensive wastewater and storm water management services to residents and businesses in both St. Louis City and County. As one of the most recognized employers in the region and a fixture in the downtown area, MSD employs over 900 individuals in a wide-range of roles including skilled crafts and laborers, engineering, information technology, finance, human resources and administration support.  We invite you to be part of the team!Training and Experience:
  • Graduation from high school, equivalent, or vocational school PLUS basic knowledge in the operation and maintenance of mechanical equipment.
  • Must be able to obtain a Missouri Class "D" wastewater treatment operator's license within 1 year of placement in this position.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Some knowledge of the operation and maintenance of pumps, motors, and related electrical and mechanical equipment.
  • Ability to use common hand tools effectively.
  • Working knowledge of safe work practices.
  • Ability to take accurate readings, keep records, logs, and make reports.
  • Ability to learn quickly and follow prescribed routines.
  • Ability to read, comprehend, and pass exams given on wastewater training program materials and manuals.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
  • Missouri Class "D" Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator's license must be obtained prior to progression to Treatment Plant Operator Trainee III.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license issued by the state in which the employee resides.
  • Pursuant to MSD's "Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures," this position has been designated as safety sensitive, and candidate must pass a Non-D.O.T. Drug Test for this position. Employees occupying this position are not subject to Federal (D.O.T.) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations
  • Employees of MSD must have a meets expectations.

Physical Demands
    Work Environment

      Apply