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Terminal Operator Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Vallejo

Communications Operator I

Vallejo, CA

$75K - $91K/yr

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Communications Operator I - This is the entry/trainee level class in ... Visually monitors video display terminals and actively listens to police radio frequencies to ...

County of Orange

Radio Dispatcher Trainee

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$63K - $84K/yr

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Experience or training as an emergency communications operator, dispatcher ... Elicit information from callers while simultaneously typing information into computer terminal.

Constellis

Dispatch Operator

Pasadena, CA

$23.50/hr

... trainees * Sedentary work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible ... Sedentary work involves extended periods of sitting while engaged with a computer terminal or phone.

Constellis

Dispatch Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$23.50/hr

... trainees * Sedentary work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible ... Sedentary work involves extended periods of sitting while engaged with a computer terminal or phone.

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Terminal Operator Trainee information

See California salary details

$25.2K

$43K

$62.7K

How much do terminal operator trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for terminal operator trainee in California is $42,960.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,600.00 and $50,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a terminal operator trainee?

A Terminal Operator Trainee is an entry-level position in industries such as oil, gas, shipping, or logistics, where the individual learns to manage and oversee the daily operations of a terminal facility. This role involves training in the safe handling, storage, and transfer of materials or products, often under the supervision of experienced operators. Trainees are taught to follow safety protocols, operate equipment, conduct inspections, and respond to emergencies. The position is designed to prepare individuals for full operator roles by providing hands-on experience and knowledge about terminal processes and regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a terminal operator trainee?

To thrive as a Terminal Operator Trainee, you need a basic understanding of mechanical operations, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, computerized control systems, and relevant safety certifications such as OSHA or HAZMAT is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient handling of terminal operations and help prevent accidents or operational delays.

What are some common challenges faced by terminal operator trainees during their initial training period?

Terminal Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, learning complex safety protocols, and mastering the operation of specialized equipment. The fast-paced environment requires strong attention to detail and the ability to respond quickly to changing conditions. Trainees typically work closely with experienced operators, which helps them build confidence and competence while navigating the learning curve.

What is the difference between Terminal Operator Trainee vs Terminal Operator?

AspectTerminal Operator TraineeTerminal Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; specialized training or certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasks, safety protocolsOperational environment, handling cargo, operating equipment
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning safety procedures, assisting with operationsExecuting terminal operations, managing cargo movement

The main difference is that a Terminal Operator Trainee is in a learning phase, gaining skills and experience under supervision, while a Terminal Operator is fully responsible for daily terminal operations. Trainees focus on training and skill development, whereas operators perform the actual work independently.

How to become a terminal operator?

To become a terminal operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical certifications related to terminal operations. Relevant skills include attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and familiarity with safety procedures and equipment such as cranes and forklifts.

What does a terminal operator trainee do?

A terminal operator trainee assists with the operation and maintenance of equipment used to load, unload, and transfer cargo or liquids at a terminal. They learn to monitor systems, follow safety procedures, and may operate machinery under supervision as part of their training. The role often requires understanding of safety protocols and technical skills related to terminal operations.

What skills do you need to be a terminal operator trainee?

A terminal operator trainee needs strong mechanical and technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate heavy equipment and control systems safely. Good communication skills and the ability to follow safety protocols are also essential, often supported by relevant certifications or training programs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Terminal Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Terminal Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Terminal Operator Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Terminal Operator Trainee job openings:

Terminal Operator Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Terminal Operator Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Terminal Operator Trainee (SELBY/CROCKETT, CALIFORNIA)

Energy transfer

Crockett, CA • On-site

$39.46 - $58.21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Energy Transfer rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 87 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Sunoco LP is a leading energy infrastructure and fuel distribution master limited partnership operating across 47 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Europe, and Mexico. The Partnership's midstream operations include an extensive network of approximately 9,500 miles of pipeline and over 100 terminals. This critical infrastructure complements the Partnership's fuel distribution operations, which serve approximately 10,000 convenience stores, independent dealers, commercial customers, and distributors.
At Sunoco, we take great pride in what we do and wholeheartedly believe our employees drive success for our company and our customers. We are always looking for the best and brightest talent and we are committed to making your job a challenging and rewarding experience.
Summary:
Performs duties as outlined by the Terminal Manager related to the receipt and shipment of petroleum products via pipeline, railcar and truck. Responsible for unloading petroleum and non-petroleum fuels from railcars, as well as the movement of facility tankage product at the plant site. Ensures maximum production quantity and quality while supporting the policies, goals and objectives of the company. Assists in the operations, maintenance, safety and environmental matters in the temporary absence of the Terminal Manager.
Rotating 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays.
Effectively performs Truck Rack, Railcar, and/or Dock loading and/or off-loading activities up to 75% of the time.
This role has a current pay range of $39.46/hr - $58.21/hr or on a 12hr basis $34.65/hr - $51.10/hr. The listed pay range represents the company's good faith estimate of the minimum and maximum base rate of pay for this position at the time of this posting. The selected candidate's compensation will be determined based on their work location, qualifications, relevant experience, operational needs, demonstrated performance over time, and internal pay alignment.
We are proud to offer industry leading compensation, comprehensive benefits including access to health, vision and dental insurance, 401(k) match with additional profit sharing, PTO, and abundant career opportunities.
Essential Responsabiltes
  • Operates and maintains all processes associated with product storage and unloading of railcars.
  • Unloads ethanol & renewable diesel fuels into tanks from railcars.
  • Retrieve samples of ethanol for testing/quality control.
  • Responsible for the inspection of railcars and the notification of any defects.
  • Creates ticket bill of ladings and issues paperwork.
  • Answers and responds to after-hour calls (24-hours per day / 7-days per week).
  • Assumes responsibility for filter changes and all valve alignments (manifolds and tanks) inside the terminal property to assure the proper handling, storage and integrity of products.
  • Uses the Terminal Automation System to prepare daily inventory reports, terminal balance report, and rack activity report.
  • Forwards daily inventory and accounting reports to the appropriate customers.
  • Ensures that customers receive information needed regarding their throughput and inventory.
  • Samples and analyzes product as instructed by the Terminal Manager.
  • Keeps loading rack equipment (mechanical and electrical) clean and in good working order at all times.
  • Interacts with drivers to make sure they follow all company and safety regulations.
  • Trains new drivers and make sure they are familiar with our automation, loading equipment and emergency features.
  • Conducts safety watches with outside contractors as advised by the Terminal Manager.
  • Ensures all environmental and safety equipment is working properly.
  • Keeps overall appearance of terminal up and grass mowed and edged.
  • Ensures compliance with federal and state regulations. Reduces potential risk to public safety and environment and minimizes company liability.
  • Improves operations efficiency and financial profitability through well maintained facilities.

Required Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor's degree or graduate of a technical school preferred.
Minimum Requirements:
  • No experience is required: 1 year Control Center, Pipeline or Terminal operations experience is preferred.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with strong interpersonal skills are required
  • Ability to proof work for accuracy
  • Excellent PC skills, with proficiency in navigation of Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook products required
  • Strong attention to detail, with the knowledge of petroleum products and industry terminology
  • Effective analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to coordinate effectively and with other personnel, corporate departments, and external customers required
  • Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently, managing time and scheduling to meet appropriate deadlines
  • Ability to work in a team environment required
  • Ability to work independently with limited supervision and independently conduct job accountabilities
  • Knowledge of Operating, Maintenance, & Emergency Procedures
  • Knowledge of system specific, MOP's Line fill's, and Operating Procedures for the console qualified on
  • Knowledge of basic pipeline hydraulics

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to walk, sit, talk and hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and may occasionally be required to climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

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