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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island

Orion Talent

Inside Machinist

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$22/hr

... programming experience or training-CNC/G-Codes, experience with milling/lathes, have strong ... Experience including setup, operating, with vertical and/or horizontal turning/lathes/mills

Nordson Corporation

CNC Machinist |||

East Providence, RI

$20.75 - $28.25/hr

Nordson EFD , a global leader in Engineered Fluid Dispensing, is seeking an experienced and highly ... High school diploma or GED * 5 or more years of experience with operating production/machining ...

RealTruck

Maintenance Technician 2

Lincoln, RI · On-site

Collaborate with engineering to resolve maintenance issues, improve equipment reliability, review ... Completion of related technical training program, certificate, degree, or journeyman apprenticeship ...

Pharmaron

Maintenance Technician

Coventry, RI · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Responsibilities also include assisting Project and Facilities Engineers in specifying and ... Ability to read, understand, and apply complex standard operating procedures and maintenance ...

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All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Rhode Island is $21.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:
Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you
CNC -Machinist

CNC -Machinist

General Dynamics Electric Boat

North Kingstown, RI

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 519 rated manufacturers

Job description

Do you have programming experience or training-CNC/G-Codes, experience with milling/lathes, have strong  mathematical skills.....then this is the position for you!!!!

Join our team, the nation's premier designer and builder of nuclear powered submarines.

Duties include but are not limited to:

  • Set up, program editing, and operation of CNC milling and turning centers
  • Requires the verification of parts and parts configuration to plan requirements using various high tolerance precision measuring tools
  • Must have the ability to read and interpret mechanical detail and assembly drawings, including GD&T, weld- joint symbols, and NDT requirements

    Benefits:

    • Medical, Dental, Vision
    • Prescription Coverage
    • HSA
    • Health and Wellness Programs
    • 401K
    • Commuter/Van Services
    • Paid Vacation and holidays
    • Paid training
    • Advancement Opportunities

    Relocation Assistance provided to qualified candidates.

    This position is located at our Quonset Point facility in North Kingstown, RI location.


    Required:

    • High school diploma or equivalent OR a minimum of 2 years relevant technical experience

    • Machining experience or relevant formal training 
    • Ability to interpret technical manuals, shipyard procedures, test documents, blueprints, diagrams, and perform basic layout functions
    • Available to work all shifts 
    • Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools

    Preferred:

    • Experience including setup, operating, with vertical and/or horizontal turning/lathes/mills 
    • Strong mathematical skills 
    • Mazak experience 
    • Vocational, Technical, Community Colleges or Apprentice programs
    • Machine technology educational program 
    • Shipbuilding/Marine Advanced Manufacturing Institute (SAMI) program completion
    • Military

    • Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
    • Self-starter with good problem solving skills
    • Ability to work in a collaborative and team environment to meet organizational goals

    Climbing, Crawling, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
    Acids or Alkalis, Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily, Wet

    What General Dynamics Electric Boat employees say

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