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Process Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The trainee program is a three-step process leading from Trainee 1, Trainee 2 and Trainee 3. Operator Trainee 3's that successfully complete their training program will have an opportunity to advance ...

Machine Operator Trainee

Madison Heights, MI

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

MNP controls the complete manufacturing process from the annealing of the raw coiled steel through ... About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level ...

Machine Operator Trainee

Utica, MI

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

MNP controls the complete manufacturing process from the annealing of the raw coiled steel through ... About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level ...

MNP controls the complete manufacturing process from the annealing of the raw coiled steel through ... About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level ...

MNP controls the complete manufacturing process from the annealing of the raw coiled steel through ... About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level ...

Machine Operator Trainee

Utica, MI

$14.75 - $18/hr

MNP controls the complete manufacturing process from the annealing of the raw coiled steel through ... About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level ...

MNP controls the complete manufacturing process from the annealing of the raw coiled steel through ... About the role of a Machine Operator Trainee: The Header and/or Roller Trainee is an entry-level ...

Showing results 41-60

Process Operator Trainee information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do process operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for process operator trainee in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 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.

More about Process Operator Trainee jobs

What cities are hiring for Process Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities with the most Process Operator Trainee job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Process Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Process Operator Trainee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Process Operator Trainee jobs include:

Infographic showing various Process Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Refinery Operator Trainee

ASRC

North Pole, AK

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Arctic Slope Regional Corporation rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Petro Star Inc. is a subsidiary of ASRC and was formed in 1984 to fill a unique role in Alaska's petroleum market. Our North Pole Refinery built in 1985 is a 22,000 bbl/day facility, producing heating fuel, kerosene, diesel, jet fuels, and asphalt base oil for the Interior and Northern Alaska communities. 

We operate our businesses reliably and efficiently by strategically developing energy resources to meet growing consumer demands.  Petro Star is committed to ensuring the health and safety of our employees and the public, as well as promoting concern and respect for the environment.  As an employer, Petro Star is one of the best companies in Alaska providing tremendous future potential where talented people thrive.

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for monitoring, controlling and conducting activities that pertain to the safe operation of the refinery, taking corrective action when necessary to ensure that all conditions and operations are in compliance with safety, environmental and operating policies and procedures.
Refinery Operator Trainee is an hourly position, 7 - 12-hour shifts on and 7 days off working a rotating work schedule. Refinery Operator Trainee reports directly to the on-shift Lead Operator.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (and other duties as assigned)

  • The trainee program is a three-step process leading from Trainee 1, Trainee 2 and Trainee 3. Operator Trainee 3's that successfully complete their training program will have an opportunity to advance to the Operator 1 position.
  • Learn the refinery hazards, safety procedures, distillation process and the various components, which make up the refinery.  [During the course of the one-year training period, trainees will be provided with training regarding the plant's hazards, safety procedures and educational materials explaining the distillation process and various components, which make up the refinery.]  The trainee will be tested quarterly for comprehension of assigned training curriculum.
  • Operators and trainees will work side-by-side on a 12 hour 7 days on / 7 days off work schedule.  The trainee will help cover shifts and may not follow the typical shift rotation of two shifts of days and two shifts of nights. Together, the operators and trainees will constitute a "shift" and be responsible for all aspects of the refinery's operation, ranging from housekeeping and maintenance of the unit and property to operation of the process unit during steady-state conditions or start-ups/shutdowns and process upsets.
  • While personal safety and safe operation of the refinery are the most important goals, trainees will be expected to participate in all new construction projects and turnarounds (maintenance work undertaken while the process unit is offline).  Many times, this work will fall on non-shift days, and while Petro Star will not usually require you to work overtime, you should be willing to work a reasonable amount of O/T if requested.


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Process technology AA Degree preferred.
  • Engineering, mechanical, pipe welding, environmental, instrumentation, refining experience or construction skills are beneficial but not required.
  • Good math skills.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Ability to quickly grasp and master complex ideas and procedures.
  • Ability to work and function well with other people in a team environment.
  • Ability to follow instructions.
  • This is not a rotational job on the North Slope.  You must live in the Fairbanks / North Pole area or be willing to relocate at your own expense.
     

Petro Star Inc., a division of ASRC, is a drug free workplace and pre-employment drug testing is part of the hiring process.

ASRC and its family of companies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability, protected veteran status or any other legal protected status.  EOE:  M|F|D|V

Petro Star Inc. is the refining division of Arctic Slope Regional Corporation, an Inupiat-owned corporation created as a result of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. 
ASRC's family of companies apply a shareholder preference in employment, to the maximum extent feasible, as authorized by law.

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