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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Train operators on machine operation and program requirements * Maintain accurate documentation and ... Vocational school training or apprenticeship preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * High ...

Molding Operator

Grandview, MO · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

As an associate of the Burger & Brown Engineering, Inc. team, support and maintain a positive ... school or apprenticeship * 1-3 years' experience operating injection molding * 1-3 years ...

RME Operator

Liberty, MO · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Reliability Maintenance & Engineering Operator (RMEO) ET0048 CBRE is an equal opportunity employer ... Apprenticeship (MRA) program. As automation continues to grow across our sites, technical roles ...

RME Operator

Liberty, MO · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

Reliability Maintenance & Engineering Operator (RMEO) CBRE is an equal opportunity employer that ... Apprenticeship (MRA) program. As automation continues to grow across our sites, technical roles ...

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Missouri salary details

$11

$20

$34

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Missouri is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.55 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 cities in Missouri are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

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

Equipment Operator, Journeyman or Apprentice

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Goodwin Brothers Construction Co.
Construction • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Heavy Industrial/Civil Construction Carpenter

Throughout our over 75-year history, Goodwin Brothers' job has been to build. Come build with us. Goodwin Brothers Construction Company has a career opportunity for a Heavy Industrial/Civil Construction Carpenter. Goodwin Brothers Construction Co. prides itself on being a self-performing General Contractor in heavy industrial, municipal and civil type projects. Since 1947, we have instilled the value of long-term relationships built through our commitment to upholding the highest craftsmanship and integrity. We are a St. Louis based, family-owned company. Required qualifications:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma.
  • This posting is open to Journeyman Operators and Apprentices. To be considered as an Apprentice you must have:
    • 1+ years of experience in a farming, manual labor, mechanical/machine shop, or construction work environment
    • Prior experience in an outdoor job that worked in all weather conditions
  • Some experience in civil or heavy industrial construction is preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to carry, lift, or hold building materials and use tools weighing 5 to 75 pounds
  • Demonstrated ability to climb and work on ladders, a variety of surfaces, and heights
  • Must be able to pass a drug test. Background checks are run on all new hires.
  • Member of the International Union of Operating Engineers, or the ability to join.

Equipment operators are highly skilled union craft who operate and maintain multiple types of construction equipment including, but not limited to, cranes, haul trucks, excavators, backhoes, skid steers, dozers, rollers, forklifts, etc. Duties include material excavation and backfill, shoring for pipe and excavation crews, excavation of trenches and hoisting pipe for pipe crews, hoisting of general construction materials, and clean up of job sites. Job specifics include:

  • Operate equipment proficiently in a safe and efficient manner, while producing high quality work and meeting production goals.
  • Know and follow all company, client and OSHA safety rules and company policies and procedures.
  • Confirm that utilities and other buried or overhead lines or structures are located and clearly marked prior to digging or performing work.
  • Maintain legal excavations per OSHA and Goodwin Brothers regulations including adjusting for type of ground material and depth, benching, sloping, and trench shields.
  • Conduct daily inspections of equipment and general work area prior to the start of any work, including completing all required paperwork, to ensure safety and proper functioning of equipment.
  • Load and unload trucks with materials, rock, and dirt with various types of equipment.
  • Evaluate soil and ground material types and make necessary adjustments based on how they affect the work being performed and the hazards they present.
  • Maintain an active awareness of surroundings near the equipment to maintain safe operation and distances from potential hazards such as underground utility lines, overhead utility lines, other equipment, and other workers.
  • Maintain the flow of work under minimal supervision considering both safety and production.
  • Communicate with other workers and trades on the job site using various communication methods including hand signals.
  • Ensure equipment is safely and securely stored when not in use.
  • Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned by supervisors.

Goodwin Brothers Construction Co. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.