Heavy Equipment Operator - Trainee

Heavy Equipment Operator - Trainee

Position type: Full-Time, Hourly

Pay Range: During Trainee Program $26.35 per hour, after 180-day probationary period

Once graduated from the Trainee Program, $29.35 per hour after probationary period

Shift & Work Schedule:2nd Shift, 3PM-11PM Monday - Friday

Overtime: Available

Location: Hennepin, IL

Ask Yourself This…

Are you ready to take the driver’s seat in a dynamic, high-impact career? Washington Mills is looking for motivated individuals to join our Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee program! This unique training opportunity will equip you with the skills to operate heavy mobile equipment safely and efficiently in our specialized production and processing environment. Take the first step toward an exciting future—apply today! If you do, then join us in Hennepin, IL!

What You’ll Do

The Heavy Equipment Operator Trainee program is designed to develop employees into skilled operators through structured training and hands-on experience. Trainees will:

• Learn & Operate Equipment – Train on and operate heavy machinery under supervision, progressively gaining skills for full-time placement.
• Follow Safety & Procedures – Adhere to all company safety protocols, operational guidelines, and maintenance requirements.
• Structured Training Program – Participate in classroom instruction, physical equipment inspections, and supervised operation, with refresher courses every six months.

What You’ll Need

To be successful in this position, you must:

• Mechanical Aptitude – Ability to understand and operate heavy machinery, perform basic troubleshooting, and follow equipment manuals.
• Attention to Detail – Maintain safety procedures, conduct inspections, and follow operating protocols with precision.
• Physical Stamina & Coordination – Work in a physically demanding environment, including lifting, climbing, and operating equipment with precision.
• Adaptability & Willingness to Learn – Embrace structured training, adapt to new processes, and continuously improve skills.
• Safety Awareness – Understand and follow strict safety guidelines, including personal protective equipment (PPE) use and hazard identification.
• Teamwork & Communication – Work collaboratively with supervisors and teammates, take direction well, and effectively communicate operational needs.

Who We Are

Washington Mills is built on values that matter. Founded more than 150 years ago, we have earned our reputation as one of the world’s most trusted and reliable producers of abrasive, ceramic and refractory grains and powders. Serving thousands of customers and offering the broadest selection of abrasive grain and specialty electro-fused minerals in the market today, we constantly pursue growth in our products, our approach, and our people.  Our founding principles of honesty, integrity and reliability still guide our business today, and we are a proud community of hands-on problem solvers, committed to shaping the materials applications of the future.  With global distribution and sites located throughout North American and Europe, Washington Mills opens the door to a world of opportunity, creativity, and challenge.

Compensation

We proudly offer robust compensation and benefits packages, including:

• Competitive pay, with opportunities to advance
• World-class medical and dental plans
• Employer-sponsored retirement plan
• Company-paid life insurance
• Paid vacation and generous holiday time
• Family-friendly personal leave policies

Interested? We want to hear from you! Visit washingtonmills.com/careers and tell us why you’re the candidate we’re looking for.

The job responsibilities described above indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to include a comprehensive inventory of all duties and responsibilities for this job. Job duties and responsibilities are subject to change based on evolving business needs and conditions.