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Apprentice Engineer Jobs in Kalamazoo, MI (NOW HIRING)

... IT developers to vice presidents of finance; from HR Business Partners to export specialists ... Prior experience in a Meat Cutter, Apprentice role strongly preferred. * Ability to read, write ...

Maintenance Apprentice

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Through our robust product engineering, outstanding tooling capabilities and diverse process expertise, we continue to bring lightweight and innovative products to market. Job Responsibilities:

Maintenance Apprentice

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Through our robust product engineering, outstanding tooling capabilities and diverse process expertise, we continue to bring lightweight and innovative products to market. Job Responsibilities:

Electrician (Maint - Systex, 2nd shift)

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$23.50 - $32.25/hr

... to go online Basic programming / Editing Upload / Download Troubleshooting / Search / Create ... Length of service (LOS) for journeypersons who have successfully completed DMMI's apprenticeship ...

... Engineering teams to design, build, program, and deploy custom automated equipment and solutions. Apprenticeship Opportunities, Tuition Reimbursement & On the Job Training Available What you'll do:

... Engineering teams to design, build, program, and deploy custom automated equipment and solutions. Apprenticeship Opportunities, Tuition Reimbursement & On the Job Training Available What you'll do:

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Apprentice Engineer information

See Kalamazoo, MI salary details

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How much do apprentice engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice engineer in Kalamazoo, MI is $20.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice engineer?

Apprentice Engineers are individuals who are undergoing practical training while working towards becoming fully qualified engineers. They typically combine on-the-job learning with classroom study, gaining hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced engineers. Apprentice Engineers can work in various engineering fields, such as mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering. This role helps them develop technical skills, industry knowledge, and professional competencies needed for a successful engineering career.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an apprentice engineer?

To thrive as an Apprentice Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of engineering principles, basic math and science skills, and a relevant high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with CAD software, engineering drawing tools, and sometimes basic programming or industry-specific certifications is often expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, teamwork, and clear communication help apprentices stand out. These skills and qualities are vital for effective learning, adapting to technical challenges, and contributing to engineering projects.

What are some common challenges apprentice engineers face during their training period?

Apprentice Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced work environments, balancing hands-on tasks with theoretical learning, and becoming proficient with new technologies or industry-specific tools. Another common hurdle is mastering communication and teamwork, as apprentices frequently collaborate with experienced engineers and other departments. However, these challenges are also valuable learning opportunities that build technical expertise and professional confidence, preparing apprentices for more advanced roles within the organization.

What is the difference between Apprentice Engineer vs Junior Engineer?

AspectApprentice EngineerJunior Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically a diploma or vocational training, on-the-job learningBachelor's degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, entry-level tasks, supervisedOperational roles, project work, more independence
Employer & Industry UsageApprenticeships in manufacturing, construction, power plantsEngineering firms, manufacturing, infrastructure projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Apprentice Engineer and a Junior Engineer lies in experience and training. Apprentice Engineers are in the early stages of their careers, focusing on learning and skill development through on-the-job training. Junior Engineers typically have completed their formal education and are responsible for more independent tasks and project work. Both roles are essential in engineering industries, but the Apprentice Engineer role emphasizes training, while the Junior Engineer role involves more active participation in engineering projects.

What does an apprentice engineer do?

An apprentice engineer learns and assists with engineering tasks such as designing, testing, and maintaining equipment or systems under supervision. They gain practical experience, develop technical skills, and often work with tools, machinery, or software relevant to their field during their training period.

What are the most commonly searched types of Engineer jobs in Kalamazoo, MI?

The most popular types of Engineer jobs in Kalamazoo, MI are:

What cities near Kalamazoo, MI are hiring for Apprentice Engineer jobs?

Cities near Kalamazoo, MI with the most Apprentice Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Engineer job openings in Kalamazoo, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,214 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Tool and Die Maker Apprentice

Richland, MI • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Who is Drive Medical...

 

Drive Medical has become a leading manufacturer of medical products with a strong and consistent track record of growth achieved both organically and through acquisitions. We are proud of our high-quality, diverse product portfolio, channel footprint and global operating scale. Our products are sold into the homecare, long-term care, retail, and e-commerce channels in more than 100 countries around the world. 

“Leading the World with Innovative  Solutions that Enhance Lives”

Summary (Major Purpose of the Role): The Tool and Die Maker Apprentice will be a highly motivated individual who is willing to learn and apply acquired skills. During a four year program, the Apprentice will learn how to analyze specifications; lay out metal stock; set up and operate machine tools such as lathes, drill presses, milling machines, grinders, or special purpose equipment; fit and assemble parts to make and repair dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and machinists’ hand tools according to production specifications and needs; and more.

Main Activities/Responsibilities:

Learns the following knowledge and skills, according to applicable apprenticeship standards, to achieve the Journeyman Tool and Die Maker certification:

  • Machine Operation and Setup: Sets up and operates conventional and CNC machine tools (lathes, mills, grinders, drill presses) to shape parts to precise dimensions. 
  • Tool and Die Fabrication: Studies blueprints and models to plan, cut, shape, and trim blanks. Fits and assembles parts to create, modify, or repair dies, jigs, gauges, and tools using hand tools or welders. 
  • Design and Development: Designs jigs, fixtures, and templates. Develops new tools and dies using computer-aided design (CAD) software, including creating/updating drawings, and Engineering Change Requests. 
  • Quality Inspection and Testing: Verifies work conformance using calipers, micrometers, and gauges. Conducts test runs with completed tools/dies, inspecting for dimensions, smoothness, contour conformity, and defects. 
  • Material Preparation and Layout: Selects alloys based on properties. Measures, marks, and scribes stock for machining. Positions and secures parts using hoists, vises, and v-blocks. 
  • Surface Finishing: Files, grinds, shims, and polishes surfaces to ensure proper fit and finish. 
  • Specialized Processes:
    • Heat Treatment: Understands hardness scales (A-2, S-7, etc.), annealing, and stress-relieving processes.
    • Press Operations: Sets up and operates punch presses. Welding/Fixture Support: Loads/unloads weld fixtures and monitors weld quality. 

 

Professional and Safety Standards

  • Planning and Interpretation: Reads and interprets machining instructions, blueprints, and job orders to determine sequences and tooling requirements.
  • Operational Precision: Selects cutting speeds, feed rates, and depths of cut based on metal properties.
  • Safety and Compliance: Enforces and adheres to all health and safety regulations, including OSHA, GMP, HACCP, and equipment-specific safety rules.
  • Process Improvement: Troubleshoots equipment failures, implements process improvements, and communicates with the team.
  • Administrative Support: Requests and processes pricing quotations and ensures production output meets organizational expectations.
  • Additional tasks may be assigned as needed.

Competencies and Skills:

  • Excellent math and mechanical skills and ability. 
  • Attentiveness and detail-oriented: the ability and desire to do precision work. 
  • Ability to follow directions. 
  • Ability to work as part of a team as well as independently. 
  • Problem solving and planning skills.
  • Computer skills.
  • Excellent communication skills: written and verbal. 

Reporting Relationships and Supervision:

  • Reports to the supervisor 

Education and Experience:

  • High school diplomas or equivalent.
  • Performs work under close guidance of Tool and Die Maker and Supervisor. 
  • Handles basic issues and problems and refers more complex issues to higher-level staff. 
  • Demonstrates curiosity, desire, and capability of learning the Tool and Die Maker responsibilities.
  • Has acquired or will acquire accreditation from a technical school or an applicable skilled trades program along with learning the trade through On the Job training.
  • Knowledge of blueprint reading, and precision measurement tools such as calipers and micrometers preferred, preferred.
  • Some vocational-technical machining training, preferred. 

Your Physical Demands/Work Environment:

  • Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged periods of time. Most of the required work is performed in the standing position at a workbench. 
  • Physical activity includes reaching, twisting, and bending; frequent lifting of average to heavy weight material up to 50 pounds unassisted and over 50 pounds assisted; standing for extended periods, walking unassisted, using tools of the trade.
  • Must have good manual dexterity and the use of two hands required.
  • Must be able to bend, reach, grasp, push, and pull several types of units without difficulty.
  • Perform activities in a shop environment. May be subject to changes in temperature and exposure to dust.
  • Must be able to operate standard warehouse equipment (pallet jacks, forklifts, etc.).

Why Apply to Drive Medical…

Competitive Benefits, Paid Time Off, 401(k) Savings Plan

Drive Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Drive Medical strictly prohibits and does not tolerate discrimination against employees, applicants, or any other covered person because of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy and/or parental status, national origin, age, disability status, protected veteran status, genetic information (including family medical history), or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Drive Medical complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.