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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

... for developers, utilities, independent power producers (IPPs), and data center operators across ... changes • Enroll apprentices in DOL RAPIDS system; ensure transfers, suspensions and ...

... for developers, utilities, independent power producers (IPPs), and data center operators across ... changes • Enroll apprentices in DOL RAPIDS system; ensure transfers, suspensions and ...

University of Iowa Health Care department of Engineering Services Project Team is seeking an Area ... Maintains operating inventory of necessary spare repair parts, filters, belts and other supplies.

University of Iowa Health Care department of Engineering Services Project Team is seeking an Area ... Maintains operating inventory of necessary spare repair parts, filters, belts and other supplies.

University of Iowa Health Care department of Engineering Services Project Team is seeking an Area ... Maintains operating inventory of necessary spare repair parts, filters, belts and other supplies.

Iowa Health Care department of Engineering Services is seeking an HVAC Tech II. This position will ... Provides functional guidance and training to apprentices, replacements, students and other ...

Iowa Health Care department of Engineering Services is seeking an HVAC Tech II. This position will ... Provides functional guidance and training to apprentices, replacements, students and other ...

CAD/CAM Technician

Newton, IA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

This role involves operating CNC machining centers, inspecting parts for quality, performing basic ... Manufacturing Programming (CAM) * Create machining toolpaths using CAD/CAM software. * Develop ...

2nd Shift CNC Operator

Hiawatha, IA

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

Key responsibilities include setting up and operating equipment, monitoring part quality, and ... Basic understanding of G-code programming and CNC editing. * Proven track record of consistent ...

2nd Shift CNC Operator

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

Key responsibilities include setting up and operating equipment, monitoring part quality, and ... Basic understanding of G-code programming and CNC editing. * Proven track record of consistent ...

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$20

$34

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 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:

Equipment Trainer

Coggon, IA • On-site

Signal Energy
Utility System Construction • 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

 CoVolt Power is a leading utility-scale EPC (Engineering, Procurement & Construction) company specializing in the design and delivery of solar, battery energy storage (BESS), and high-voltage infrastructure. Since its founding in 2005, the company has built a reputation for de-risking project delivery and providing creative, integrated solutions that span the power and digital infrastructure sectors. 

Consistently ranked as a top-tier EPC, CoVolt Power leverages a mission-driven approach to safety and quality, delivering thousands of megawatts in renewable assets that support a more resilient and sustainable energy future for developers, utilities, independent power producers (IPPs), and data center operators across North America.

Position Summary:

The Equipment Trainer is responsible for training, evaluating, and authorizing employees to safely and effectively operate construction equipment. This position plays a critical role in promoting safety, compliance, and operational excellence by delivering hands-on equipment training, conducting operator evaluations, and maintaining authorization records. The ideal candidate has extensive experience operating heavy equipment and a strong ability to teach and mentor equipment operators in field environments.

RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES:

  • Conduct hands-on and classroom training for employees operating construction equipment.
  • Train and authorize operators on safe operating procedures, equipment inspections, jobsite awareness, and company policies.
  • Provide instruction on proper inspection, startup, maintenance, operation, shutdown, and equipment care procedures.
  • Develop and deliver refresher training and corrective coaching as needed.
  • Conduct practical operating assessments and skills demonstrations.
  • Authorize and certify operators based on company standards and safety requirements.
  • Maintain accurate operator qualification, authorization, and training records.
  • Conduct equipment audits and reinforce proper Daily Vehicle Inspection (DVI) procedures.
  • Assist with incident investigations involving equipment operation when needed.
  • Oversee Equipment IRS Training for apprentice operators
  • This role may be required to perform other duties, tasks, and responsibilities as assigned or as necessary to meet the needs of the organization and Equipment Department

Equipment Knowledge:

  • Maintain expert-level knowledge of construction equipment operation and safety practices.
  • Train and evaluate operators on equipment including, but not limited to:
    • Pile Drivers
    • Skid steers
    • Forklifts
    • Dozers
    • Wheel loaders
    • Scrapers
    • UTVs
    • Excavators
    • Backhoes
    • Compactors
    • Other heavy equipment and support machinery

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience operating heavy construction equipment.
  • Previous training, coaching, or leadership experience preferred.
  • Strong working knowledge of heavy equipment safety standards and operational practices.
  • Ability to effectively teach and communicate with employees of varying skill levels.
  • Strong documentation and organizational skills.
  • OSHA certifications or equipment trainer certifications preferred.

Important Interview Policy: To ensure a focused conversation and protect the privacy of both our candidates and team members, the use of AI note-takers, recording devices, or real-time transcription software is strictly prohibited during this interview. If an unauthorized bot joins the meeting, our team will ask for it to be removed before beginning the interview. Thank you for your cooperation!

CoVolt Power is an Equal Opportunity Employer and uses E-Verify.

We are not accepting resumes from Third Party Recruiting Firms for positions posted on our careers page. If you are an Agency or Search firm representative, contact the CoVolt Power Talent Acquisition Manager directly at talent.acquisition@covolt.com for consideration.

CoVolt Power or its affiliates will not be responsible for any fees arising from the use of resumes and online response forms through this source. In addition, CoVolt Power or its affiliates will not be responsible for any fees on unsolicited resumes that are submitted to any member of the Staffing or Operations team. CoVolt Power has established an approved vendor program for this service, and will only consider accepting submissions from those approved firms.