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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Bondurant, IA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and ...

State of Iowa

Heavy Equipment Operator

Johnston, IA · On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

OR satisfactory completion of a formal two-year apprenticeship as an Operating Engineer (Heavy Equipment); OR substitution of satisfactory completion of specialized training in operating heavy ...

Applied High Voltage

Equipment Trainer

Coggon, IA · On-site

CoVolt Power is a leading utility-scale EPC (Engineering, Procurement & Construction) company ... Oversee Equipment IRS Training for apprentice operators * This role may be required to perform ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Davenport, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Davenport, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Clinton, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Clinton, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Le Claire, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Le Claire, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Constellation Energy

Supv Fuel Handling

Davenport, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

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All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$20

$34

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Iowa is $20.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.60 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 Iowa?

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

Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you

Apprentice Operator I

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Bondurant, IA • On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description:

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used in clearing railroad derailments by lifting and moving derailed railway cars and locomotives.


About Us:

Hulcher Service is an industry leader with more than 500 employees and over 25 divisions located in the United States and Mexico assisting customers with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and environmental projects.


What You'll Do:

  • Drive tractor-trailer or escort vehicles.
  • Material handling of heavy steel chains, blocks and steel cables, and other devices.
  • Climbing and crawling on and under derailed railroad cars.
  • Maintenance, cleaning and setup of equipment requiring use of small and large tools including cutting torch and welding.
  • Digging, hammering, and other physical types of work with various tools
  • Lifting 100 lbs. maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects up to 50 lbs.
  • Work at heights over 25 feet on railroad cars; may be on bridges, over water, or in water.

Why Join Us:

  • Room for growth
  • Union benefits including, but not limited to medical insurance and pension plan


Take your career to the next level and join our mission-driven team! At Hulcher you can apply with confidence in knowing you will be a valued asset to our team and be a part of a stable thriving industry!


Requirements:

What You Bring:

  • Must have a valid Class A CDL with NO restrictions.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Ability to work on-call 24/7 365 days a year in an emergency response environment.
  • Ability to travel up to 50% of the time.
  • Ability to conduct maintenance inspections on equipment.

Work Schedule:

  • Monday through Sunday on the job or possibly at division.
  • On call for 24 hours for derailments requiring immediate response.
  • 8-hours/day Monday through Friday; on call at other times for derailments requiring immediate response.
  • The Response Team is to be available at all times and all hours of the day.