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Trainee Operators Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Aquaamerica

Facility Operator Trainee

Crete, IL · On-site

$30/hr

We have a great opportunity for a Facility Operator Trainee. This role is under the direction of the Field Supervisor and will perform a variety of activities to support the operation of wastewater ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$62K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be graduating seniors ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Dayton Freight

Management Trainee

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Overview The Management Trainee Program is geared toward recently graduated or soon-to-be ... or pulling equipment, operating material-handling equipment, and occasionally assisting with ...

Clean Harbors

Driver Class B Trainee

Elgin, IL

Safety-Kleen in Elgin, I is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

Clean Harbors

Driver Class B Trainee

Elgin, IL · On-site

$14.90 - $34.62/hr

Safety-Kleen in Elgin, I is seeking a Sales and Service Route Driver Trainee (Driver Class B ... Safely observe all corporate operating guidelines and procedures * Observe all company ...

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All JobsOperators JobsTrainee Operators JobsTrainee Operators Jobs in Chicago, IL

Trainee Operators information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$26.3K

$44.8K

$65.4K

How much do trainee operators jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee operators in Chicago, IL is $44,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $52,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Trainee Operators vs Machine Operators?

AspectTrainee OperatorsMachine Operators
Required CredentialsBasic certifications or on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications or licenses often required
Work EnvironmentSupervised, training-focused settingsOperational, hands-on machinery environments
Employer UsageEntry-level roles for trainingFull-time operational roles
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level training rolesSeeking experienced machinery operation jobs

In summary, Trainee Operators are entry-level roles focused on training and skill development, often requiring minimal certifications. Machine Operators are experienced roles that involve operating machinery independently, often requiring advanced certifications. The main difference lies in experience level and responsibility, with Trainee Operators serving as a stepping stone to becoming a fully qualified Machine Operator.

Do you get paid while being a trainee operator?

Trainee operators typically receive pay during their training period, which may include classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Compensation varies by employer and program, but paid training is common to support skill development and certification requirements.

Is being a trainee operator worth it?

Trainee operators gain hands-on experience and training in operating machinery or equipment, which can lead to full-time positions and career advancement. The role often requires safety certifications and technical skills, making it a valuable entry point in industrial or manufacturing fields.

What do trainee operators do?

Trainee operators learn to operate machinery and equipment in industrial, manufacturing, or technical settings. They typically receive on-the-job training, develop skills in safety procedures, and may work under supervision to gain experience before working independently.

What is the role of a trainee operator?

A trainee operator is an entry-level worker learning to operate machinery or equipment in a manufacturing, industrial, or technical environment. They typically receive on-the-job training, develop skills in equipment handling, safety procedures, and may work under supervision until they gain full operational competence.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Trainee Operators jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Trainee Operators job openings:

Trainee Operators jobs near you

Assistant Branch Manager Trainee

Chicago, IL

Thillens Inc
Commercial Banking • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Thillens Incexternal

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

We are one of the largest independently owned armored transportation and cash-logistics companies in the Midwest, operating multiple branches across Illinois and Wisconsin — and we’re growing fast.

The Assistant Branch Manager Trainee role is a paid leadership-track position designed to develop future Assistant Branch Managers and Branch Managers in a secure, regulated environment.   An idea applicant. will have a valid FOID card.  If this is you, please look at our other requirements and apply today. 

You will begin with hands-on operational experience and progress into structured leadership training.

 

Assistant Branch Manager Trainee Training

Training is based in the Chicago area (company headquarters) and provides full exposure to route operations and branch leadership.

Phase 1 – Route & Operations (˜60 days):
• Route operations, safety, procedures, and customer service

Phase 2 – Office & Leadership (90–120 days):
• Training with a Senior Branch Manager
• Scheduling, employee supervision, compliance, and performance management

After training, you will be placed in a home branch based on business needs and performance.

Assistant Branch Manager Trainee Pay & Benefits

• Assistant Manager Trainee: $22.00 – $26.00 per hour + bonus
• Assistant Branch Manager: $50,000 – $60,000 + bonus
• Branch Manager: $60,000 – $85,000 + bonus

(Pay is based on experience and performance; bonuses are discretionary.)

Benefits include:
• Medical PPO & HSA plans
• AFLAC supplemental benefits
• Paid vacation
• Employee referral bonuses
• Annual firearm training
• $1,000 sign-on bonus (paid after one year of service)
• Strong, team-oriented culture
• Promotion from within strongly encouraged

 

Assistant Branch Manager Trainee Responsibilities & Qualifications

• Support armored route operations
• Learn branch scheduling, staffing, and compliance
• Assist with training and mentoring employees
• Support safety, security, and performance standards
• Reliable, professional, and detail-oriented
• Comfortable working in a regulated, fast-paced environment

Assistant Branch Manager Trainee Requirements

• At least 21 years of age
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Ability to pass background checks and DOT requirements
• Ability to lift 50 lbs or more

Highschool/GED completed

Licensing Requirements:
• Illinois: Ability to obtain and maintain a valid FOID card
• Wisconsin: Ability to obtain 108 Security Permit (DSPS)

Security or firearm experience is helpful, but not required — training is provided.

Why Join Us

• Clear leadership career path
• Structured training and mentorship
• Stable, growing company
• Opportunity to manage and lead a branch

Ready to Apply? If you’re looking for a long-term leadership opportunity with a growing regional company, apply today.