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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

RME Operator

Troutdale, OR ยท On-site

$21.50 - $28.50/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 ...

RME Operator

Troutdale, OR ยท On-site

$23.50 - $30/hr

... Engineering (RME) teams are expanding with a new opportunity: RME Operator (RMEO). The RME Operator ... Replace spare parts following standard operating procedures * Use laptops/tablets to manage work ...

RME Operator

Woodburn, OR ยท On-site

$23 - $29.50/hr

... Engineering (RME) teams are expanding with a new opportunity: RME Operator (RMEO). The RME Operator ... Apprenticeship (MRA) program. As automation continues to grow across our sites, technical roles ...

Automation Controls Specialist

Mcminnville, OR ยท On-site

$85K - $112K/yr

... programming, and production systems. โ€ข Technical education, certification, apprenticeship, or ... operating manufacturing equipment and in varying environmental conditions while using required ...

CNC Operator

North Plains, OR ยท On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... mentoring from apprenticeship to leadership and are proud of the important work we do, this ... Proficient in operating and programming CNC machines. * Skilled in reading and interpreting ...

CNC Operator

North Plains, OR ยท On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... mentoring from apprenticeship to leadership and are proud of the important work we do, this ... Proficient in operating and programming CNC machines. * Skilled in reading and interpreting ...

CNC Operator

North Plains, OR

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... mentoring from apprenticeship to leadership and are proud of the important work we do, this ... Proficient in operating and programming CNC machines. * Skilled in reading and interpreting ...

CNC Operator

North Plains, OR

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... mentoring from apprenticeship to leadership and are proud of the important work we do, this ... Proficient in operating and programming CNC machines. * Skilled in reading and interpreting ...

CNC Operator

North Plains, OR ยท On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

... mentoring from apprenticeship to leadership and are proud of the important work we do, this ... Proficient in operating and programming CNC machines. * Skilled in reading and interpreting ...

CNC Operator-North Plains, Oregon

Yamhill, OR ยท On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

... mentoring from apprenticeship to leadership and are proud of the important work we do, this ... Proficient in operating and programming CNC machines. * Skilled in reading and interpreting ...

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Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$23

$39

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Oregon is $23.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $25.43 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 Oregon?

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

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

Service Apprentice/Trainee-Portland, OR

DMG MORI USA, INC

Wilsonville, OR โ€ข On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

 

Title:                Service Engineer Apprentice

Reports to:       Regional Service Manager

Location:          DMG MORI USA - Portland, OR

Hours:              Monday through Friday, Core Business Hours

Classification:   Non-Exempt

Travel:              75%

Annual Base Salary Range:   $55,000

Employment is conditioned on DMG MORI's ability to obtain and maintain any necessary export licensing.

Service Apprentice will participate in training and development where the incumbent learns to repair, install and move all DMG MORI machines.

Essential Job Functions:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Responsibilities include up to and not limited to:

  • Complete all Classroom, factory training and online classes, and pass with 80% or higher scores. 
  • Shadow Service Engineers on service calls, which require traveling with the Service Engineer to customer sites
  • Learning through observation, while assisting Service Engineers on the call.  
  • Progression in the apprentice program is competency based, participants are enrolled for 2 years before they receive certification and promotion to Service Engineer.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements: 

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Demonstrates mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, or electronic aptitude
  • Experience in CNC manufacturing, maintenance, a related field, a journeyman certificate and/or experience in machine/manufacturing maintenance or related field - such as military maintenance training and experience preferred
  • Analytical/problem solving abilities
  • High interpersonal and social skills required to successfully complete assignments in stressful situations
  • Ability to communicate professionally and create positive relationships with customers
  • Verbal skills to effectively communicate varying levels of internal technical staff and customers 
  • Time management skills to plan work and travel schedules to minimize downtime/nonproductive time   
  • Adaptability to abrupt changes in work schedule and travel arrangements
  • Proven written skills and discipline to complete required technical documents and Reports in a timely fashion
  • Ability to travel domestic and/or internationally to visit customer locations and/or trade shows 
  • Ability to follow complex written and verbal instructions correctly
  • Other duties as assigned

 

Work Environment

Exposure to manufacturing/machining environments which may present possible hazards such as noise, electricity, chemicals, heavy equipment, and other automated and manual machinery. General office environment experienced at DMG MORI office. 

Physical Demands: 

Frequent: Travel, operating a vehicle, sitting, standing, walking, bending, squatting, stooping, and reaching. Pushing, pulling, and lifting objects. Repetitive foot, leg, hand, arm, shoulder, and torso movements.

Periodic: Operating power equipment, sitting at desk, utilizing computers and phones.

Occasional: Lifting or moving up to 50lbs. 

 We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform per-employment substance abuse screening.