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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

CBRE

RME Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$50K/yr

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 ...

CBRE Group

RME Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$56K/yr

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

Ono Hawaiian BBQ

Front Crew - Ono 069

Delano, CA · On-site

$20/hr

... operating the Point-of-Sale (POS) system, and maintaining a clean and safe environment ... training, and apprenticeship. Ono Hawaiian BBQ makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Bakersfield, CA is $22.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $24.86 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 Bakersfield, CA?

The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

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

Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,372 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Field Inspector - Bakersfield

G3 Quality, Inc.

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$35.08 - $60.46/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform testing activities such as asphalt coring, concrete testing, and nuclear gauge usage, and document all testing activities and observations in a timely manner.

  • Coordinate daily with Client and Contractor representatives to ensure smooth communication and project progress.

  • Adhere strictly to required test methods and perform duties in a safe manner.

Job description

Location: Bakersfield Region

G3 Quality is looking for experienced Field Construction Materials Testing Technicians for projects throughout the Central Valley region in California (Bakersfield Metropolitan Area). We are seeking candidates who demonstrate a strong work ethic with a professional attitude. The ideal candidate will have asphalt coring, concrete testing, and nuclear gauge usage experience for a civil engineering or materials testing company.

Responsibilities

  • Timely documentation of all testing activities and observations.
  • Daily coordination with Client and Contractor representatives.
  • Strict adherence to required test methods.
  • Performance of duties in a safe manner.

Pay Scale

  • Local 12 Field Inspector:  $64.18 - $67.96 an hour
  • Local 12 Apprentice:  $39.58 - $59.36 an hour
  • Local 3 Field Inspector:  $47.31 - $63.39 an hour
  • Local 3 Apprentice:  $33.76 - $52.18 an hour
  • Prevailing wage rates apply. 

Benefits

  • Health & welfare and retirement/pension plans are offered through the union.
    • Union benefit links:  OE12 Benefits or OE3 ​​​​​Benefits 
  • G3 offers a 401k benefit plan, separate from the union plan.

Position Requirements

  • Must be part of the Operating Engineers Local 12 and/or Operating Engineers Local 3 union, or willing to join the union(s).
  • Physically able to regularly lift and /or move up to 75 lbs.
  • Valid drivers’ license.
  • Ability to read plans and specifications.
  • Nuclear gauge user HAZMAT certification.
  • Current Caltrans certification in various test methods relating to soil, concrete, and hot mix asphalt testing.
  • Other certifications are a plus (such as ACI, NICET, ICC, QSP).

EEO Statement

G3 Quality, Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

About the Company

G3 Quality is a team of engineers and professional experts who’ve helped countless clients deliver successful infrastructure projects for the past decade. Through a mix of world-class Quality Management, Pavement Engineering, Inspection, and Materials Testing services, we are your partner every step of the way.
Since 2013, we have built a strong reputation among contractors, design firms, construction managers, and local state and government agencies across the West Coast. Led by industry veterans Chris Gerber and Susan Pierce, our team has grown into a force of over 125 professionals since its inception, with a corporate office in Cerritos, California, and additional laboratories and offices in Bakersfield, Redlands, and Sacramento.

Thank you for your interest in employment opportunities at G3.

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