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Terminal Operator Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

AmSpec Group

Inspector

Signal Hill, CA · On-site

Job Summary Entry level position for trainee inspector who will ultimately be able to undertake ... Responsible for the correct preparation and distribution of all field reports to vessels, terminals ...

Amspec LLC.

Inspector

Signal Hill, CA · On-site

Job Summary Entry level position for trainee inspector who will ultimately be able to undertake ... Responsible for the correct preparation and distribution of all field reports to vessels, terminals ...

D5 LOGISTICS INC

Delivery Driver

Chino, CA

$19 - $26/hr

Basic Requirements * Trainee drivers willing to work hard and learn fast or pre-approved ... operating out of the Chino, CA terminal servicing Chino Hills, a beautiful community in the ...

D5 LOGISTICS INC

Delivery Driver

Chino, CA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Basic Requirements * Trainee drivers willing to work hard and learn fast or pre-approved ... operating out of the Chino, CA terminal servicing Chino Hills, a beautiful community in the ...

D5 LOGISTICS INC

Delivery Driver

Chino, CA

$19 - $26/hr

Basic Requirements * Trainee drivers willing to work hard and learn fast or pre-approved ... operating out of the Chino, CA terminal servicing Chino Hills, a beautiful community in the ...

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All JobsTerminal Operator JobsTerminal Operator Trainee JobsTerminal Operator Trainee Jobs in California

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 Jul 15, 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Terminal Operator Trainees typically do not earn $4,000 per week without experience or specialized skills. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include roles such as commercial pilots, certain sales managers, or skilled trades like elevator installers, but these usually require certifications or extensive training. Most jobs paying this amount without a degree involve specialized skills, certifications, or significant experience.

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.

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 certification in terminal operations, safety procedures, and equipment handling. Relevant skills include attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment; some positions may require a valid driver's license or certification in operating specific machinery.

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 jobs pay $700 a day?

Terminal Operator Trainees typically do not earn $700 a day; such high daily wages are more common in specialized roles like experienced crane operators, offshore oil rig workers, or certain high-level construction supervisors. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience, and they may involve working long hours or in hazardous environments.

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.

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

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 do operator trainees do?

Terminal operator trainees learn to operate and monitor equipment used in loading, unloading, and transferring cargo or materials at a terminal. They follow safety procedures, use control systems, and gain hands-on experience under supervision to develop the skills needed for full operational roles.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,960 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

CDL A Regional Truck Driver - Reefer | Home Weekly ($1,000-$1,400+/Week)

The Driving Desk

Moreno Valley, CA • On-site

$1.0K - $1.4K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

We are hiring Class A CDL Drivers for a regional refrigerated freight position operating throughout California, Nevada, and Arizona. This role offers consistent freight, weekly home time opportunities, and regional routes designed to improve home frequency.

Drivers will haul reefer freight primarily within a 3-state operating area while running power lanes intended to maximize miles and earnings.

What You'll Do
  • Run regional reefer routes throughout:
    • California
    • Nevada
    • Arizona
  • Operate primarily in:
    • Jurupa Valley, CA
    • Lathrop, CA
    • Las Vegas, NV
    • Phoenix & Mesa, AZ
    • Perris & Moreno Valley, CA
  • Handle refrigerated freight with a mix of:
    • Live loads/unloads
    • Preloaded freight
  • Average approximately:
    • 1 load per day
    • 3 turns / 6 loads per week
  • Fuel both truck and reefer equipment as needed
Pay & Compensation
  • Average Weekly Pay: $1,000 – $1,400+
  • Starting Pay: ~$0.55 CPM
  • Pay by Month 6: ~$0.61 CPM
  • Additional Monthly Bonus: Up to +$0.06 CPM

Additional Pay:

  • $25 stop pay
  • Driver performance bonus available

Estimated Annual Earnings:

  • $60,000+ for newer drivers

Average Weekly Miles:

  • ~1,500 – 1,800 miles
Home Time & Schedule
  • Weekly 34-hour reset
  • Drivers are frequently routed back through home terminal
  • Weekend and holiday work required
  • Day and night shifts available
Equipment & Freight
  • Refrigerated trailer (reefer) freight
  • Company driver position
  • No-touch freight
  • Higher load frequency than standard OTR freight
Requirements
  • Valid Class A CDL
  • Open to:
    • Trainees
    • Experienced first-seat drivers
  • No endorsements required
  • Must live within approved hiring radius (70 miles of hiring cities)
  • Must be comfortable operating reefer equipment
  • Ability to pass background check and drug screening
Benefits
  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) plan
  • Paid vacation
  • Direct deposit
  • Passenger program available
  • Pet policy available
  • Driver performance bonus program
  • Nationwide terminal network
  • 24/7 driver support
Work Location

Main hub: Jurupa Valley, CA
Regional operations throughout CA, NV, and AZ

Apply today for a regional CDL driving position with weekly home time, consistent Southwest freight, and strong earning potential.