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System Operator Trainee Jobs in Fullerton, CA (NOW HIRING)

PDS Health

Operations Manager Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

PDS Health

Operations Manager Trainee

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$27.75/hr

... systems * By end of development program, show competency in managing a team of both Front Office ... Process Focused Operator (data driven decision-maker; detailed; organized and structured ...

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All JobsSystem Operator JobsSystem Operator Trainee JobsSystem Operator Trainee Jobs in Fullerton, CA

System Operator Trainee information

See Fullerton, CA salary details

$14

$28

$46

How much do system operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for system operator trainee in Fullerton, CA is $28.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.10 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a system operator trainee?

System operator trainees are entry-level professionals who are undergoing training to manage and monitor the operations of systems such as electrical power grids, water treatment plants, or other critical infrastructure. They work under the supervision of experienced operators, learning how to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of these systems. Their responsibilities typically include observing control panels, responding to alarms, recording data, and assisting with routine maintenance. The goal of the training is to prepare them for full operator roles by providing both hands-on experience and classroom instruction.

What are some common challenges faced by system operator trainees in their first year on the job?

As a System Operator Trainee, one of the main challenges is mastering complex monitoring systems and learning to respond quickly and accurately to real-time changes in the power grid. Trainees must also adapt to rotating shift schedules, which can impact work-life balance. Collaborating with experienced operators and staying updated on protocols is key, as the role involves both independent decision-making and close teamwork under pressure. Building confidence in handling emergency scenarios and communicating effectively with field crews are also essential skills developed during the first year.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a system operator trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a System Operator Trainee, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, power grid fundamentals, and typically an associate’s degree in electrical engineering technology or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and NERC certification is often required or preferred. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help trainees excel in high-pressure, team-oriented environments. These competencies are crucial for maintaining grid reliability, ensuring safety, and responding rapidly to system disturbances.

What is the difference between System Operator Trainee vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectSystem Operator TraineePower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, training facilitiesPower plant facilities, control rooms
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, energy companies, training programsPower generation plants, energy sector
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that a System Operator Trainee is in a training phase, learning to monitor and control systems, while a Power Plant Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for operating power plant equipment. The trainee role focuses on gaining experience, whereas the power plant operator role involves hands-on operational duties.

What does a system operator do?

A system operator monitors and controls industrial, electrical, or computer systems to ensure they run efficiently and safely. They troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and may use specialized software or equipment to manage system operations, often working in shifts or 24/7 environments.

What cities near Fullerton, CA are hiring for System Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities near Fullerton, CA with the most System Operator Trainee job openings:

System Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Operator Trainee job openings in Fullerton, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,220 per year, or $29 per hour.

Press Operator Trainee (83671)

THE GILL CORPORATION

El Monte, CA

$23.97 - $28.88/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 hours ago

Job description

Who we are:

The Gill Corporation is one of the world's largest manufacturers of honeycomb, high performance floor panels, cargo compartment liners and original equipment for passenger and freighter aircraft. The company also excels in many other types of reinforced plastics including interior sandwich panels for creating structures such as aircraft galleys and bulkheads, honeycomb core and related products.

The Gill Corporation is looking for a Press Operator Trainee who will perform troubleshooting, replace defective machine components, monitor the systems for efficiency, read instructional guides, determine product suitability, and inspect irregularities before and after the use of press machines to ensure smooth operations. Press Operators Trainee work with Press Operators to finish their projects by their respective deadlines and must follow safety guidelines.

Reporting to the Production Supervisor, they will perform but not be limited to the following responsibilities.

Responsibilities:

  • Check Gill Process Specifications against work order instructions
  • Assist Loads and unloads press.
  • Understand the basic function of the press (What the press does and how the press works) 
  • Assists in breaking loads apart after pressing.
  • Assists in inspecting panels for correctness, and informs Operator or supervisor of any noncompliance prior to proceeding with balance of the job.
  • Assists in recording material usages and pressing conditions.
  • Assists Operator in identifying each panel with serial number and documents all traceability information on the shop planner.
  • Assist in checking material tags for proper materials.
  • Assist and learn to set up pressing conditions per GPS instructions.
  • Assist the operator while learning to operate press 2, 6, 11, 15, 30 and 31 to manufacture quality panels and liners.
  • Learn to check panel/liner thickness using a micrometer to ensure its within the tolerance.
  • Maintain the work area and equipment in a clean and orderly condition.
  • Utilize hand and power tools as needed to perform the duties
  • Reports any defective materials or questionable conditions to the Operator, Lead or Supervisor
  • Know and follow the PPE safety policies and procedures.
  • Maintain a safe work environment
  • Other essential duties may be assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications:

  • Must have a high school diploma, GED or equivalence
  • One or two years of related experience and/or training a plus but not required
  • Acceptable Spirometry Test results (full/ half respirator use).
  • Must be available to work any shift, over-time and weekends.
  • Must be able to work in a team environment, ie follow instructions
  • Bend, Twist, and Stand for 8-10 hours a day in extreme heat or cold
  • Use hands for simple and power grasping as well as push/pull and fine manipulation
  • Be willing to work in a manufacturing environment
  • Basic Math Skills: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division
  • Accurately uses and understands how to read a measuring tape
  • Effectively communicate information and respond to questions from various levels of the organization
  • Must be able to lift, push and pull a minimum of 50 lbs.

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify U.S. person status under the ITAR and the EAR. A “U.S. person” according to their definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee, or asylee.

The Gill Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants for all job openings are welcome and will be considered without regard to race, religious creed, color, age, sex, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, military service, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, or any other classification protected by federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.

The Gill Corporation provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disability Act and applicable state and local law. If you require an accommodation in the application process, please notify the Human Resources Department

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