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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Northlake, IL · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

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

Socket.dev

Lead Operating Engineer-Licensed

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Successful completion of recognized trade union apprentice program as an Operating Engineer (IUOE-399), Pipefitter (LU-597 - controls), Sheet Metal Worker (Local 73) or equivalent trade union local ...

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Apprentice Operating Engineer information

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How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Illinois is $21.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice operating engineer?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice operating engineer?

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 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.

Can you become an apprentice operating engineer with an apprenticeship?

Yes, becoming an apprentice operating engineer typically involves enrolling in an apprenticeship program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. These programs often require a high school diploma or equivalent and may include passing a skills assessment or physical exam. Completing an apprenticeship can lead to a journeyman operating engineer certification and better job opportunities in the field.

Is an apprentice operating engineer hard to get into?

Becoming an apprentice operating engineer typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, passing an entrance exam, and completing a structured apprenticeship program that includes on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Competition can be moderate, and relevant skills such as mechanical aptitude and safety awareness are important for entry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:

Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you

Lead Operating Engineer

J&J Maintenance

Scott Air Force Base, IL

$41.64/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Primary Job Functions

  • Assist in planning, prioritizing, and assigning daily work orders and preventive maintenance tasks to ensure efficient completion and compliance with contractual requirements.
  • Assist in maintaining operational readiness 24/7 by remaining reachable by phone or other means of communication during assigned coverage periods and responding to urgent situations when directed.
  • Supporting the CMM by maintaining communication with facility staff, contractors, and management during normal duty hours and, when designated, outside normal duty hours.
  • Provide on-site directions or guidance to other bargaining unit employees when immediate decisions are required to maintain safety or operational continuity, during normal duty hours and, when designated, after normal duty hours.
  • Provide operational input and updates to management regarding equipment status, maintenance needs, and safety issues.
  • Support adherence to applicable codes and standards (TJC, NFPA, OSHA, EPA, etc.) as required by the performance work statement governing the facility’s operations.
  • In the absence of the CMM or other designated management personnel, the Lead Operating Engineer may be assigned to act as the on-site point of contact to ensure continuity of operations but shall not possess independent authority to hire, fire, suspend, discipline, or effectively recommend such actions.
  • Must be able to perform the duties of the Lead Operating Engineer in a safe, effective, and reliable manner. When two or more employees are determined by the Employer to possess substantially equal qualifications and ability to perform the work, bargaining unit seniority will govern the selection.
  • This is a working Lead position and will be assigned Preventive Maintenance (PM) and Corrective Maintenance (CM) tasks directly. The Lead Operating Engineer must be able to personally perform assigned PM and CM work as directed by the CMM.

Education, Experience and Certification 

Required: High School Diploma or equivalent.

Required: Minimum of 1 year plus of experience leading a team of licensed and unlicensed technicians in a 24/7/365 industrial or commercial operations and maintenance environment.

Required: Licensed Stationary Engineer holding a City of St. Louis Class I License (or equivalent), OR Journeyman-level certification in the applicable trade obtained through a recognized apprenticeship program. Equivalent qualifications may include successful completion of an ICC National Journeyman or Master Certification exam, certification through a nationally recognized trade program, or documented military journeyman-level (or higher) experience in the applicable trade, as verified on a DD Form 214.

Working Conditions
 
Work is performed in a facilities environment and may require moderate physical activity and occasional exposure to varying environmental conditions.
 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of facility operations, maintenance practices, and building systems.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and resolve operational issues.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documents and procedures.
  • Strong communication, organizational, and teamwork skills

Financial Responsibilities 

  • No

People Management

  • No

Travel Requirements

  • No

CBRE Government and Defense is thrilled at the opportunity for you to apply to one of our roles. The rate for this position is $41.64. This position may also be eligible for a wide range of benefits based on applicable bargaining unit agreements.

This description is not intended to be an “all inclusive” list of the accountabilities of the job described. Rather, it describes the general nature of the job. In addition, some aspects of this job may change over time, according to business needs, and these changes may not be recorded immediately. The requirements stated represent the minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities to qualify and satisfactorily perform this job.

THIS DOCUMENT SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS CREATING A CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT BETWEEN CBRE GOVERNMENT & DEFENSE SERVICES AND ANY OF ITS EMPLOYEES OR OTHERWISE ALTERING AN EMPLOYEE’S AT WILL EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP WITH CBRE GOVERNMENT & DEFENSE SERVICES.

 

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