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Trainee Engineering Jobs in Athens, GA (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Engineering information

See Athens, GA salary details

$24.6K

$42K

$61.3K

How much do trainee engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee engineering in Athens, GA is $42,032.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,900.00 and $49,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Trainee Engineers?

Trainee Engineers are entry-level professionals who have recently graduated in engineering or a related field and are undergoing practical training within an organization. Their primary role is to learn about engineering processes, tools, and company protocols while working under the supervision of experienced engineers. This period helps them build technical skills, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for more advanced engineering roles within the company. Trainee Engineers often participate in projects, assist with research and development, and may rotate between different departments to broaden their understanding. The training typically lasts from several months to a couple of years, depending on the organization's structure and the complexity of the field.

What are some common challenges faced by Trainee Engineers during their initial months, and how can they overcome them?

Trainee Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new technologies, understanding complex project requirements, and managing time effectively while balancing training with real-world assignments. It's normal to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking guidance from mentors, actively participating in team meetings, and regularly reviewing technical materials can help accelerate learning. Building good communication with colleagues and asking questions when unsure are also crucial steps in overcoming these early hurdles and establishing a strong foundation for future growth.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Engineer, you generally need a relevant engineering degree or diploma, strong analytical abilities, and a foundational understanding of engineering principles. Familiarity with industry-specific software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks, and an eagerness to learn on-the-job tools and safety protocols are typically expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate effectively and adapt to new challenges. These competencies are crucial for building technical expertise, ensuring safety, and progressing successfully in an engineering career.

What is the difference between Trainee Engineering vs Junior Engineering?

AspectTrainee EngineeringJunior Engineering
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recently completed relevant educationCompleted degree or diploma in engineering
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised tasksIndependent project work, ongoing responsibilities
Employer UsageEntry-level training positions in engineering firmsEntry-level engineering roles with some responsibilities
Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level career pathsCompared as a step after trainee roles

In summary, Trainee Engineering positions are designed for individuals gaining initial industry experience, often during or immediately after education. Junior Engineering roles typically require some completed education and involve more independent work, serving as a stepping stone in an engineering career.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineering jobs in Athens, GA? The most popular types of Engineering jobs in Athens, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Engineering jobs in Athens, GA? For Trainee Engineering jobs in Athens, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Engineering jobs in Athens, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Engineering jobs in Athens, GA are:
What cities near Athens, GA are hiring for Trainee Engineering jobs? Cities near Athens, GA with the most Trainee Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Trainee Engineering job openings in Athens, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,032 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
CNC Machine Operator Trainee - Day Shift

CNC Machine Operator Trainee - Day Shift

Accurus Aerospace Corporation

Athens, GA • On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Accurus Aerospace rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

The CNC Machine Operator Trainee is an entry-level position designed to provide hands-on training in operating and maintaining CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machinery. The trainee will work closely with experienced operators and supervisors to learn setup, operation, inspection, and basic troubleshooting of CNC machines.
Essential Functions
To accomplish this job, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
  • Sets up and operates automated CNC Vertical and horizontal machines
  • Accurately locates/identifies the X, Y, Z axis on Vertical and Horizontal machines
  • Performs daily point checks on assigned machines and reports concerns to supervisor; may initiate maintenance requests if appropriate
  • Meets departmental/company goals and objectives promptly (i.e.: efficiencies, scrap control, time motion and setup time reductions)
  • Accurately interprets product blueprints, drawings, sketches, set up sheets and other work instructions
  • Uses scales, calipers, micrometers, and height gauges to determine that the part is being machined to the proper specifications
  • Removes and replaces dull cutting tools; following designated safety protocol and instructions
  • Mounts, installs, aligns, and secures tools, attachments, fixtures, and workpieces on machines, using hand tools and precision measuring instruments
  • Listens to machines during operation to detect irregular sounds (i.e. dull cutting tools or excessive vibration); adjusts machines to compensate for problems and notifies lead or supervisory personnel as appropriate
  • Adjusts machine feed and speed, changes cutting tools, or adjusts machine controls when automatic programming is faulty or if machines malfunction
  • Stops machines to remove finished workpieces or to change tooling, setup, or workpiece placement according to required machining sequences
  • Lifts workpieces to machines manually or with hoists or cranes
  • Enters control instructions into machine control units to start operation
  • Monitors and adjusts/controls coolant systems as needed
  • Transfers commands from servers to computer numerical control (CNC) modules, using computer network links
  • Sets up future jobs, performs inspections or part checks, cleans work area, or performs other duties while machines are operating
  • May deburr machined parts as required for work in process
  • Follows all safety policies and procedures; consistently utilizes all required personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Communicates verbally (English) and follows verbal and written instructions
  • Performs other tasks and/or assignments as required
  • Regular attendance on site at the workplace is required

Required Education and Work Experience
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent is required

Other Required Skills and Abilities
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn
  • Demonstrated basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, divide, fraction conversions)
  • A history of consistent employment without unexplained or significant gaps or frequent job changes is expected
  • Completion of assigned internal training for Level I , II , or III Operators, and periodic retraining or recertification is required
  • Experience using mics, calipers, height gauges, and other precision measuring equipment is preferred
  • Experience reading & accurately interpreting shop blueprints, sketches, and other technical information/instructions is preferred
  • Experience using cranes, forklifts, and similar heavy & oversized material handling equipment is preferred

Training and Advancement
  • This position is part of a structured training program lasting approximately 90 days, conducted on day shift, Monday through Friday
  • Upon successful completion, the trainee will be assigned to a CNC Machine Operator Level I, Level II, or Level III based on skills, performance, and company needs
  • Full-time assignments after training may be scheduled on day, night, or weekend shifts

Physical Demands and Work Environment
To perform the essential functions of the role, employees must be able to perform the following activities with or without reasonable accommodations:
  • Regularly stand and walk throughout the facility, stand for long periods to perform job duties
  • Regularly lift, carry (short distances), and push/pull up to 100 pounds using peer assistance and/or other lifting & material-handling equipment
  • Occasionally reaches overhead and reaches out or down to perform duties
  • Frequently climb steps, stairs, or ladders
  • Occasionally bend, crawl, stoop, squat, or kneel
  • Frequently uses hand or fingers to manually inspect parts, tighten hardware & fixtures, and operate machine and material handling controls
  • Accurately distinguish colors to respond to sensors, indicators, and color-variable dashboards
  • Visual acuity to interpret readings on gauges and other measuring devices

Working Conditions
Work is performed in a manufacturing shop environment where working conditions may vary significantly; the employee will be exposed to:
  • Excessive noise (hearing protection required)
  • Dust, smoke, mist, fumes/vapors (regularly)
  • Extreme temperatures (occasionally)
  • Hazardous equipment including forklifts, hand tools, cranes or other lifting devices, and other equipment used in a machine shop environment (continually)

We appreciate your interest in Accurus Aerospace; however, only those applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.
Accurus offers a comprehensive employee benefit package upon completion of 30 days of employment. For full details, please visit the benefits section of our website.
Accurus is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action Plan (AAP) employer and participates in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program. Please see our website for more information on employment practices.
Please note that Accurus only accepts applications submitted through our online recruiting system. For information on disability accommodations for applicants, please visit our career page.
All job offers are contingent upon successfully completing a drug screen and criminal background screening. Certain positions may require a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), a credit report, and/or a medical physical examination.
Thank you for considering Accurus for your next career opportunity.

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