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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer

Little Rock, AR

$57K - $77.10K/yr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As an Operating Engineer, you will independently perform ... four year apprenticeship program in power plant operation or equivalent within Healthcare or ...

High school diploma or GED required; trade school or apprenticeship program preferred * Minimum of ... of Operating Engineers Local 94. * All terms and conditions of employment, including wages ...

Operating Engineer

Conroe, TX · On-site

$59.50K - $80.50K/yr

We are searching for an Operating Engineer -- someone who works well in a fast-paced setting. In ... DLA - Dept of Labor Apprenticeship by the Department of Labor * SMA - Systems Maint Administrator ...

Operating Engineer

Conroe, TX

$59.50K - $80.50K/yr

We are searching for an Operating Engineer -- someone who works well in a fast-paced setting. In ... DLA - Dept of Labor Apprenticeship by the Department of Labor * SMA - Systems Maint Administrator ...

Operating Engineer

Little Rock, AR

$57K - $77.10K/yr

As an Operating Engineer, you will independently perform journeyman-level duties, responsible for ... four year apprenticeship program in power plant operation or equivalent within Healthcare or ...

Operating Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$76K - $102.80K/yr

High school diploma or GED required; trade school or apprenticeship program preferred * Minimum of ... of Operating Engineers Local 94. * All terms and conditions of employment, including wages ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE • 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Houston, TX

$66.30K - $89.70K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Maintenance & Repairs Perform preventive maintenance and ... High School Diploma or GED (trade school/apprentice program preferred) * 4+ years of technical ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Chevy Chase, MD · On-site

$73.40K - $99.20K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related trade ...

Operating Engineer

Chevy Chase, MD

$73.40K - $99.20K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related trade ...

Operating Engineer

Chevy Chase, MD · On-site

$73.40K - $99.20K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related trade ...

Operating Engineer

Schertz, TX · On-site

$63K - $85.20K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE § 5+ years of related trade ...

Operating Engineer

Chevy Chase, MD · On-site

$73.40K - $99.20K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related trade ...

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Apprentice Operating Engineer information

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How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Operating Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Operating Engineer, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, strong math skills, and typically a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and basic maintenance tools is important, and OSHA safety certifications are often required. Attention to detail, reliability, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of complex machinery and support the successful completion of construction or industrial projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by Apprentice Operating Engineers during their training period?

As an Apprentice Operating Engineer, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding tasks, learning to safely operate a wide range of heavy machinery, and understanding complex site safety protocols. Balancing on-the-job training with classroom instruction can also be demanding, requiring strong time management and a willingness to continuously learn. Additionally, working in varying weather conditions and collaborating closely with seasoned engineers and construction crews are common aspects of the role.

What are Apprentice Operating Engineers?

Apprentice Operating Engineers are individuals who are learning to operate and maintain heavy equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, typically on construction sites. They work under the supervision of experienced engineers as part of a formal apprenticeship program, gaining hands-on experience and classroom instruction. The apprenticeship usually lasts several years and prepares individuals for a career as a fully qualified Operating Engineer, offering skills in equipment operation, safety practices, and routine maintenance.

What is the difference between Apprentice Operating Engineer vs Operating Engineer?

AspectApprentice Operating EngineerOperating Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and apprenticeship program completionRequires relevant certifications and experience, often including a license
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, assisting with operations in industrial or building settingsFull responsibility for operating and maintaining equipment in similar settings
Job RoleLearning and assisting under supervisionIndependent operation and decision-making

The main difference is that an Apprentice Operating Engineer is in training, focusing on learning the skills needed to become an Operating Engineer, who is fully qualified to operate and maintain equipment independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for the responsibilities of an Operating Engineer.

What cities are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs include:

$24.97/hr

Contractor

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Application Instructions
When you are ready to apply, please submit a complete and accurate online application including as much information regarding your past work experience as possible. If your skills and experience align with what we are looking for to fill this role, we will contact you directly with the next steps in our process.
Position Description
Core Values
All SB employees are expected to support and exemplify SB's core values:
1. Learn, innovate, & grow
We believe in the power of ideas, the courage to challenge former ways of doing things, the willingness to change, and the fact that everyone has a voice.
2. Listen, really listen
Listening is a commitment to give value to another's words and ideas. Listening to hear - not just to respond - creates a teamwork culture that's empowering.
3. Have each others' backs
The feeling that we're in this together builds a sense of common purpose. We look out for each other, seek out safer practices, and speak out when it's necessary.
4. Always act with integrity
It requires a high degree of personal pride to give your best, hold yourself to the highest quality standards, and do the right thing-even when no one is watching.
5. Respect all relationships
Our goal is to always be a good partner and operate in a manner that reflects well on the company. Our interactions and impressions are part of leaving legacies.
Union Membership
As a signatory of the Heavy Constructors of Greater Kansas City , SB hires the following classifications of operating engineers from the Operating Engineers Local 101 in the Kansas City Metro Area:
  • Apprentice Operating Engineer
  • Journeyperson Operating Engineer

Non-union applicants are encouraged to apply; however, maintaining union membership in good standing with a union local within our operational jurisdiction is a condition of employment.
Union Wage Rates
Wage rates are set during the collective bargaining process between the Heavy Constructors Association contractors and unions. 2022 wage rates for operating engineers are as follows effective 1 April 2022:
Basic Wage Rate Fringe Benefits Rate Straight Time Hourly Rate Overtime Hourly Rate Apprentice Operator 65% $24.97 $20.84 $45.81 $58.30 Apprentice Operator 75% $28.82 $20.84 $49.66 $64.06 Apprentice Operator 85% $32.66 $20.84 $53.50 $69.83 Group I Operator $38.42 $20.84 $59.26 $78.47 Group II Operator $37.38 $20.84 $58.22 $76.91 Group III Operator: Mechanic's Helper Field $35.70 $20.84 $56.54 $74.39 Oiler $32.91 $20.84 $53.75 $70.21 Oiler Driver $36.26 $20.84 $57.10 $75.23 Mechanic Permanent Shop $37.07 $20.84 $57.91 $76.45 Mechanic's Helper Shop $30.72 $20.84 $51.56 $66.92
In the Heavy Constructors Association union system, overtime rates are as follows:
  • Any hour after 10 hours in a single workday
  • Any hour after 40 hours in a single work week (work weeks are Sunday thru Saturday)

Note that basic wage rates and overtime rates can fluctuate from job to job depending on (1) the wage rate effective at the contract bid date and (2) whether a prevailing wage determination is controlling for a particular public works contract.
Position Requirements
Apprenticeship Program
Applicants who do not have at least three full years of verifiable professional experience in the heavy construction industry likely need to apply as applicants for the unions' apprenticeship programs. For apprenticeship information, requirements, and class schedules, see:
  • Local 101 Apprenticeship Program Info
  • Local 101 Apprenticeship Program Application (816-640-2336)
Drug, Alcohol, Violence, & Discrimination-Free Workplace
SB is a drug-, alcohol-, violence-, and discrimination-free workplace. All offers of employment are contingent upon completing pre-employment drug screens. Drugs, alcohol, weapons, and violent or discriminatory behavior of any kind are prohibited at all times. SB maintains a drug and alcohol random testing program for every level of employment.
OSHA 10-Hour for Construction
Missouri state statute requires public works construction workers to obtain an OSHA 10-Hour for Construction certification. Members of all four unions affiliated with the Heavy Constructors Association of Greater Kansas City may obtain this training at no cost through the Construction Industry Laborers Training Fund. SB union member employees who do not yet have this certification are required to complete this training within 60 calendar days from the first day of employment.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Superior Bowen is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, national origin or any other legally protected status.