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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Shop Technician Apprentice

Troy, MI · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

... engineered and engineered system cylinders, and other compressed gas cylinders for compliance with ... operating systems and software applications such as Windows, Word, Apple IOS, Android and Outlook.

Nuclear Engineer

Flushing, MI

$84.40K - $101.10K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Bellevue, MI

$92.30K - $110.50K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Alanson, MI

$95.80K - $114.80K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Sanford, MI

$82.60K - $98.90K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Allegan, MI

$86.20K - $103.30K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

East Lansing, MI

$93.30K - $111.80K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Bath, MI

$89K - $106.60K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI

$91.70K - $109.90K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Elkton, MI

$87.70K - $105K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Freeport, MI

$88K - $105.40K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lewiston, MI

$88.50K - $106K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Linden, MI

$88.60K - $106.10K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Alma, MI

$85K - $101.90K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

$91.20K - $109.20K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Rochester, MI

$90.70K - $108.60K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Gaylord, MI

$89.20K - $106.80K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Michigan is $19.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $20.96 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,924 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Shop Technician Apprentice

Shop Technician Apprentice

CertaSite

Troy, MI • On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


CertaSite rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 32 rated health and safety providers


Job description

ROLE OVERVIEW
We are looking for a shop technician to perform shop services for fire extinguishers, pre-engineered and engineered system cylinders, and other compressed gas cylinders for compliance with applicable life-safety and fire-safety requirements, federal, state, and local ordinances, customer requirements, and the expectations and requirements of the company. This is a fast-paced and demanding role with high visibility within the company. This role reports to the shop manager.
WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
  • Maintain inventory in the shop and assist with count as needed
  • Perform inventory counts as required
  • Keep shop organized and clean
  • Ensure DOT compliance for hydro systems and other key areas of the business
  • Manage testing records and verify accuracy for DOT inspections
  • Maintain, clean, and organize all shop tools
  • Check specialty tools in and out
  • Building maintenance and cleaning as needed
  • Responsible for maintaining extinguishers and system cylinders in various locations in shop such as: complete work, return bins, swap outs, condemned extinguishers, swap systems cylinders
  • Record and document all inspections, repairs, discrepancies, and recommendations either electronically or manually
  • Maintain a good positive relationship with the customer and pass on information to the appropriate personnel for follow up, quotes, questions, or concerns
  • Maintain equipment and tools necessary to safely perform job
  • Work in compliance with the Company's safety program

QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Must possess the ability to calculate basic math including fractions, decimals and percentages
  • Must possess the knowledge and ability to understand and operate basic computer functions, operating systems and software applications such as Windows, Word, Apple IOS, Android and Outlook. In addition, required to learn and use industry specific devices and software
  • Must currently have a valid U.S. driver's license

IDEAL QUALITIES
  • Experience with inventory and fire extinguishers is beneficial but this is a trainee or entry level role
  • NAFED 10 within 90 days of hire
  • Ability to operate a forklift
  • Acute attention to detail
  • Strong mechanical and technical aptitude
  • Highly organized and detail-oriented
  • Problem-solving skills

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Overtime may be required, and the number of hours may vary based on work location
  • May be exposed to all kinds of work environments. Varying work environments from hot to cold temperatures and exposure to dust
  • Occasionally asked to travel overnight to a customer location
  • Must be able to successfully lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
  • Frequent lifting and carrying of toolboxes, equipment, parts, tools, equipment, and/or wiring
  • Frequent ladder climbing and checking, pulling wire, etc.
  • Walking, stooping, bending, crouching, kneeling, and raising hands overhead
  • Driving is required and the amount of time driving may vary
  • Required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for this position in accordance with safety standards

COMPANY PERKS
  • Work at a mission-driven company, focused on people
  • Comprehensive medical plan options, including dental and vision
  • 401K plan with company match
  • Generous paid time off, paid holidays, and paid parental leave
  • Education reimbursement program
  • Continued growth and expansion into new markets and products and services

This is a unique opportunity to join a great team at a company that is rapidly expanding and evolving, which may also bring significant potential for career growth.
Who are we?
CertaSite is a fast-growing fire protection and life safety company. Fire and life safety is our passion. It's all we think about. We leverage our hard-earned expertise to give people peace of mind, confidence, and more time to pursue their core businesses. Since 2018, we have grown from four to 18 markets while serving more than 30,000 customers throughout the Midwest.
As we grow and expand into new markets, we are building a team that loves what they do and has fun doing it. If you are looking to be challenged every day, for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, and to grow with a mission- and people-driven company focused on the customer, we hope you will consider this amazing opportunity.
Our Mission: To provide a meaningful impact to as many lives as possible.
Our Vision: To be the most dependable and simplified life safety solution on the planet.
Our Values:
  • Passionate - We are on a relentless pursuit to be great, not just good enough. And we have fun doing it.
  • Impactful - Our work makes a real difference in the world. We literally save lives, but that's just the beginning.
  • Innovative - We believe there is always a better way. We don't stop until we find it.
  • Genuine - We do what we say, and we mean it. We are authentic and dependable.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Overtime may be required, and the number of hours may vary based on work location. May be exposed to all kinds of work environments. Varying work environments from hot to cold temperatures and exposure to dust. Occasionally asked to travel overnight to a customer location. Must be able to successfully lift up to 50 pounds occasionally. Frequent lifting and carrying of toolboxes, equipment, parts, tools, equipment, cabling, and/or wiring. Frequent ladder climbing and checking, pulling wire, etc. Walking, stooping, bending, crouching, kneeling, and raising hands overhead. Driving is required and the amount of time driving may vary. Required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for this position in accordance with safety standards
Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status
Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.