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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Albany, CA

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA ยท On-site

$34.41 - $68.18/hr

This position is a Union role - Operating Engineers Local 3 (OE3) Hourly rate is based on current status in OE3 - Fringe Benefit details are additional and not listed below. OE3 Apprentice rates are ...

This position is a Union role - Operating Engineers Local 3 (OE3) Hourly rate is based on current status in OE3 - Fringe Benefit details are additional and not listed below. OE3 Apprentice rates are ...

This position is a Union role - Operating Engineers Local 3 (OE3) Hourly rate is based on current status in OE3 - Fringe Benefit details are additional and not listed below. OE3 Apprentice rates are ...

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA ยท On-site

$34.41 - $68.18/hr

This position is a Union role - Operating Engineers Local 3 (OE3) Hourly rate is based on current status in OE3 - Fringe Benefit details are additional and not listed below. OE3 Apprentice rates are ...

We are looking for a skilled, hands-on operator who takes ownership of the physical workspace ... apprenticeships paired with extensive engineering experience. * Technical Proficiency: Strong ...

Nuclear Engineer

Pinole, CA

$108K - $130K/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

Pacheco, CA

$107K - $128K/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

Burlingame, CA

$111K - $133K/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

Brisbane, CA

$118K - $142K/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

Mill Valley, CA

$119K - $142K/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

Belvedere, CA

$103K - $124K/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

Novato, CA

$115K - $138K/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

Moraga, CA

$104K - $125K/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

Ross, CA

$110K - $131K/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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Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Albany, CA salary details

$14

$25

$43

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Albany, CA is $25.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $28.12 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 near Albany, CA are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Albany, CA with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Albany, CA as of July 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 $53,581 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Crane Operator

Sealaska

Vallejo, CA โ€ข On-site

$34.41 - $68.18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Crane Operator - Classification - Operating Engineer - Union (OE3) Friction/Conventional
Job Summary:
The Marine Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes on vessels, offshore rigs, or marine terminals. This role ensures the secure lifting, movement, and placement of cargo and equipment while adhering to strict safety protocols and operational standards. The position requires technical expertise, precision, and strong communication skills to coordinate with teams in dynamic marine environments.
Only local applicants will be considered, no relocation.
Duties/Responsibilities:
โ€ข Operate marine cranes safely and efficiently, manipulating controls to regulate speed and movement of loads.
โ€ข Monitor crane performance and ensure compliance with operational guidelines.
โ€ข Adhere to all safety procedures, regulations, and company policies.
โ€ข Conduct pre-lift briefings (toolbox talks) and maintain safe exclusion zones.
โ€ข Verify rigging and load charts are correctly followed for each lift.
โ€ข Perform daily inspections and preventive maintenance, including lubrication, cleaning, and function checks.
โ€ข Identify, troubleshoot, and report any mechanical issues or malfunctions.
โ€ข Conduct minor repairs as needed.
โ€ข Interpret and execute lift plans, ensuring load weights are within the crane's capacity.
โ€ข Assess environmental and operational conditions to confirm safe lifting conditions.
โ€ข Communicate with the vessel's bridge, deck crew, and/or rig teams via 2-way radio and visual signals.
โ€ข Work collaboratively to ensure smooth and precise lifting operations.
Required Skills/Abilities:
โ€ข Experience as a crane operator in marine, offshore, or industrial environments.
โ€ข Valid certifications/licenses as required by local or international maritime regulations (e.g., API, OPITO, or equivalent). NCCCO Certification required.
โ€ข Knowledge of lifting operations, load charts, and rigging practices.
โ€ข Ability to pass required medical and fitness-to-work examinations.
โ€ข Friction/Conventional crane experience required.
Education and Experience:
โ€ข Highschool diploma or equivalent.
โ€ข Crane Operation required, Marine experience preferred.
โ€ข NCCCO Certification required.
Working Conditions:
The physical and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
โ€ข Setting: Work aboard vessels, offshore rigs, and marine ports/terminals.
โ€ข Conditions: Exposure to variable weather and sea conditions. Will require rotating shifts, overtime, and extended periods of travel.
Physical Demands:
โ€ข While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to walk, use hands to finger, handle objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; bending or crouching; talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
โ€ข Ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and in physically demanding environments.
Work Environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions and other elements prevalent at the time.
This description is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position. It is intended to accurately reflect the activities and requirements of the position, but duties may be added, deleted, or modified, as necessary. This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.
This position is a Union role - Operating Engineers Local 3 (OE3)
Hourly rate is based on current status in OE3 - Fringe Benefit details are additional and not listed below.
OE3 Apprentice rates are as follows: $34.41-$53.18
OE3 Operator rates are as follow: $58.04-$68.18
Review the Benefits associated with this position: https://www.sealaska.com/benefits/
Who is Sealaska? Established in 1972, Sealaska is the Alaska Native regional corporation for Southeast Alaska. Our 23,000 shareholders are Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian people with more than 10,000 years of ancestral ties to the oceans, forests and communities of Southeast Alaska. We serve the twin goals of economic prosperity and environmental protection. CS Marine Constructors, Inc. is a subsidiary of Sealaska.
We are committed to providing the best possible climate for maximum development and goal achievement for all our employees. As a subsidiary of a Native-owned company, CS Marine Constructors, Inc. is proud to promote an inclusive and diverse workplace, with respect for the cultural traditions in the communities where we operate.
CS Marine Constructors, Inc, is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, sex, gender, age, religion or religious creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, physical or mental disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. However, preference may be extended to an enrolled member of a federally-recognized Indian Tribe.*
*"Indian Tribe" means an Indian Tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or community, including any Alaska Native village or regional or village corporation as defined in or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (85 Stat. 668; 43 U.S.C. 1601) which is recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indians because of their status as Indians.