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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer

Indianapolis, IN

$66.40K - $89.90K/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

Columbus, IN

$64.60K - $87.40K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Columbus, IN · On-site

$64.60K - $87.40K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Columbus, IN

$64.60K - $87.40K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Columbus, IN · On-site

$64.60K - $87.40K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Columbus, IN · On-site

$64.60K - $87.40K/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 ...

Maintenance Apprentice

Princeton, IN

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Installs, repairs, and performs preventative maintenance of operating equipment, other equipment ... Works with other mechanics, engineering, and manufacturing to ensure continuous operations within ...

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Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$20

$35

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Indiana is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $22.88 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Indiana as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,587 per year, or $21 per hour.
Operating Engineer

$66.40K - $89.90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 153 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title

Operating Engineer

Job Description Summary

Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and maintenance of the mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all necessary maintenance and operational tasks are developed to assure maximum life and reliability of all mechanical/ electrical/plumbing systems. Typically, this position does not have a Chief Engineer on-site at the building and is sometimes the solo engineer at the building. This position may also include the supervision of maintenance staff at the building depending on the size and complexity of the assignment.

Job Description

[Please delete this section before finalizing the Job Requisition: Below is an example Job Description for this Job Profile, and may need to be updated to reflect the specific responsibilities of this role. Please also ensure that you validate the selection of the Job Profile and placement of this Position in the Job Architecture before finalizing.]
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assist with or conduct the daily operations and maintenance of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and general maintenance requirements for the buildings
• Supervise maintenance staff when applicable and assign, and monitor maintenance activities and projects
• Perform preventive maintenance duties, including changing filters, lubricating motors, replacing lamps, ballasts and fixtures, Inspecting and adjusting belts, replacing motor bearings, aligning shafts, and other inspections and maintenance recommended by equipment manufacturers
• Recommend improvements to the preventive maintenance program on an ongoing basis
• Develop and maintain effective building-specific maintenance procedures
• Coordinate maintenance efforts with outside contractors and technicians
• Maintain stock and inventory control
• Respond immediately to emergency situations (fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.) and customer concerns
• Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as related to building operations and practice safe work habits
• Ensure management team is informed of current building operations by compiling and submitting monthly reports
• Complete all required C&W Safety Training as scheduled annually.
• Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code while working and maintain a neat and clean appearance while on the property at times other than working hours
KEY COMPETENCIES
• Communication Proficiency (oral and written)
• Organization Skills
• Technical Proficiency
• Decision Making
• Problem Solving/Analysis
IMPORTANT EDUCATION
• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
• Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred
IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE
§ 5+ years of related trade experience in operating mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
• Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, i.e. Journeyman or Master Electrician License, City Licenses, Operators License, Steam Engineers License, etc.
• Possess a valid “Universal” level certification for CFC and HFC based refrigerants (EPA Section 608); to service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release ozone depleting refrigerants to the atmosphere or any similar combination of education and experience
• Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and good driving record with periodic checks
• Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word
• Experience in operation, maintenance and basic repair of HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, water systems, etc.
• Knowledgeable in energy management systems, techniques and operations.
• Thorough knowledge in all building systems operations, maintenance and repair
May be only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts; may be required to work extended periods of time without relief when responding to priority/emergency situations (including overtime type assignments); may require shift work and/or on call duties
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Regularly required to travel outside between properties in varying weather conditions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
• Must have ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs. of equipment (pumps, tools, ladders) and safely install rigging/lifting devices
• Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine
• Involves movement between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work
• Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you
• Ability to read and understand information presented orally and in writing
• Regularly required to utilize vision abilities, allowing reading of printed material, drawings, and schematics
AAP/EEO STATEMENT
C&W provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Further, the company takes affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed and employees during employment are treated without regard to any of these characteristics. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.
OTHER DUTIES
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.


Cushman & Wakefield provides equal employment opportunity. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated. Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative​ Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without  regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or email HRServices@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.

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