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Programmer Trainee Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Technician 1

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$19.35 - $38.75/hr

Monitor trainee output and scrap; support retraining and recertification efforts. * Perform routine ... Communicate Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) and Temporary Alerts to production. * Identify and ...

Shop Crane Tech Trainee

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$25 - $28.94/hr

A customized training plan and career path is identified for each trainee and provided within the ... Engineers Local No. 49. Compensation and working conditions are defined by the Collective ...

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Programmer Trainee information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$38

$67

How much do programmer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for programmer trainee in Minnesota is $38.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.19 and $50.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Programmer Trainees?

Programmer Trainees are entry-level professionals who are learning the fundamentals of programming and software development, typically as part of a structured training program within a company. They work under the supervision of experienced developers, assisting with coding, debugging, testing, and documentation tasks while gaining practical experience. The role is designed to help them develop technical skills, understand software development processes, and prepare for more advanced programming positions.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as a Programmer Trainee?

As a Programmer Trainee, you will typically start by assisting with coding, debugging, and testing tasks under the guidance of more experienced developers. You'll often work on smaller modules or features within larger projects and may be tasked with maintaining documentation, fixing bugs, or writing unit tests. Collaboration with team members such as senior programmers, testers, and project managers is common, providing valuable exposure to the software development lifecycle. This hands-on involvement helps you build foundational technical skills and prepares you for more complex responsibilities as you grow in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Programmer Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Programmer Trainee, you need a basic understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), problem-solving abilities, and at least a relevant degree or coursework in computer science or IT. Familiarity with code editors, version control systems like Git, and debugging tools is typically expected. Strong communication, eagerness to learn, and teamwork skills help you adapt quickly and collaborate with mentors and peers. These skills and qualities are essential for building a solid programming foundation, contributing effectively to projects, and progressing in a technical career.

What is the difference between Programmer Trainee vs Software Developer?

AspectProgrammer TraineeSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBasic programming knowledge, often a student or recent graduateFormal education in computer science or related field, experience preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, internships, entry-level projectsFull-time employment, project development, team collaboration
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs, training institutes, tech companiesTech firms, software companies, startups
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, training opportunitiesCareer growth, job responsibilities, skill requirements

The main difference between a Programmer Trainee and a Software Developer lies in experience and responsibilities. Programmer Trainees are typically beginners undergoing training or internships, focusing on learning and assisting in projects. Software Developers are experienced professionals responsible for designing, coding, and maintaining software solutions. While Programmer Trainees aim to develop skills, Software Developers actively contribute to software development lifecycle.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Minnesota are:
What job categories do people searching Programmer Trainee jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Programmer Trainee jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Programmer Trainee jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Programmer Trainee job openings:
Welder / CNC Operator Trainee - $1000 Sign On Bonus

Welder / CNC Operator Trainee - $1000 Sign On Bonus

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing, Inc (CEM)

Frazee, MN • On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 hours ago

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Job description

Frazee, MN | Monday–Friday | Day Shift | No Weekends

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing is looking for a Welder / CNC Operator Trainee to join our Frazee, MN team.

This is a great opportunity for someone who has some hands-on welding or manufacturing experience and wants to grow into a long-term career. This person will start by supporting welding and production needs, while also training into CNC machine operation.

This is not a from-scratch training position. We are looking for someone who already has some basic welding, shop, mechanical, or manufacturing experience and is ready to build on that.

Why CEM?

CEM is a family-owned manufacturing company with locations in Chaska and Frazee, Minnesota. For over 42 years, we have built our business on stability, steady growth, and taking care of our employees. We are proud to say we have never had a layoff, even through recessions, supply chain issues, and economic uncertainty.

If you are looking for a stable company where you can learn, grow, and build a long-term career, this is a great place to do that.

What You’ll Do

  • Perform welding work as needed to support production
  • Read and follow work instructions, prints, and job requirements
  • Inspect parts for quality and accuracy
  • Grind, clean, prep, and finish parts as needed
  • Assist with assembly and other shop duties when needed
  • Train into CNC machine operation
  • Load and unload parts in CNC machines
  • Learn how to check parts using measuring tools
  • Keep work area clean, safe, and organized
  • Follow all safety and quality procedures

What We’re Looking For

  • Some welding, fabrication, shop, or manufacturing experience required
  • CNC experience is a plus, but not required
  • Ability to read basic prints or work instructions preferred
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Good attendance and reliability
  • Willingness to learn CNC operation
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a small team
  • Someone who takes pride in doing quality work

Schedule

  • Monday through Friday
  • Day shift
  • No weekends
  • Stable, predictable hours

Benefits

  • 100% company-paid employee medical insurance with a $500 deductible plan
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k) with 4% company match after eligibility
  • PTO starts day one
  • Paid holidays
  • Annual bonuses
  • Quarterly luncheons and holiday parties
  • Training and growth opportunities
  • Clean, air-conditioned shop
  • Long-term stability with a family-owned company
  • $1000 Sign On Bonus

About Continental Engineering & Manufacturing

Continental Engineering & Manufacturing specializes in precision machining, welding, assembly, and driveline components. We serve customers across North America and take pride in quality work, long-term customer relationships, and creating stable careers for our employees.

We are a smaller, family-owned company where employees are more than just a number. Many of our employees stay long-term and retire here.

Apply today to join our Frazee team and grow your career in welding and CNC machining.

Company Description

Continental Engineering and Manufacturing (CEM) is a family-owned manufacturing company based in Chaska and Frazee, Minnesota. Since 1983, we've been at the forefront of precision machining, welding, and assembly, which has complemented our original focus on drive shaft components and assemblies. We serve a diverse clientele across North America and beyond, offering CNC horizontal and vertical milling, CNC horizontal and vertical turning (with robotic loading), broaching, hobbing, balancing, painting, welding, assembly, inspection, and stocking programs all supported by continuous investments in upgrading equipment and cutting-edge technology.
At Continental, we foster a strong, positive culture that values teamwork, collaboration, respect, and the growth of every individual. With an impressive 42-year history of stability and a proud record of never having a single layoff, we provide our employees with a secure and supportive environment. We invest in our team’s future by offering training programs that empower our members to enhance their skills and advance their careers.
We are ISO 9001-2015 certified and committed to delivering cost-efficient, reliable products while building lasting relationships with customers, vendors, employees, and the community. Our air-conditioned shop, generous benefits, and strong emphasis on work-life balance make us a top choice for manufacturing professionals.