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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Berkeley, 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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Kentfield, CA

$110.80K - $132.80K/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

Sausalito, CA

$112K - $134.20K/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

Vallejo, CA

$111.10K - $133.10K/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

Hillsborough, CA

$112.90K - $135.20K/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

Alamo, CA

$115.50K - $138.30K/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

Clayton, CA

$106.10K - $127.10K/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

$104.60K - $125.30K/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

Colma, CA

$115.90K - $138.80K/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

Bay Point, CA

$108.30K - $129.70K/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 Berkeley, CA salary details

$15

$26

$45

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Berkeley, CA is $26.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $29.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Berkeley, CA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,087 per year, or $27 per hour.

$122.24K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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


Job description

Salary : $122,241.60 Annually
Location : Toll Plaza, Presidio Station, San Francisco, CA
Job Type: Regular, Full-Time
Job Number: PS101966
Division: Bridge Division
Opening Date: 02/26/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Opening(s): 1
Selection Process: SELECTION PROCEDURES will include: โ€ข Skills Assessment Test โ€ข Oral Panel Interview โ€ข Department Interview for final candidates โ€ข Medical Examination, post offer of "conditional employment" (this includes a drug test, physical and a functional performance physical.)* โ€ข Background, Employment and Security Investigation
Position Summary
This position operates, services and performs minor to major repairs on construction, bridge maintenance and other equipment used by the District to maintain the Bridge and other District properties. Performs record keeping and written verification of work accomplished as directed.
THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENT(S) MUST BE SUBMITTED AT TIME OF APPLICATION:
  1. Employment Application
  2. DMV K4 Driving History Report (Attach as a PDF to your online application)
    NOTE: The DMV K4 printout (3-year driving record) must be obtained from an official DMV kiosk or DMV field office and dated within 30 days of the job posting. For official locations, visit: California Department of Motor Vehicles - Kiosks - California DMV. SELF-PRINTED REPORTS ARE NOT ACCEPTED.

Internal Applicants (Pull Notice Program participants):
Human Resources will obtain your DMV report directly.
Essential Responsibilities
โ€ข Operates front end loaders, drawbar graders, asphalt rollers, water pumps, travelling scaffolds, air compressors, backhoes, and other machinery and equipment that the District owns or rents
โ€ข Lubricates, services, and performs minor repairs to a wide variety of machinery and equipment, including portable and stationary air compressors, front end loaders, tractors, standby generators, travelling scaffolds, high pressure pumps, sandblasting equipment, fog horns, air powered lifts, air receiver tanks, air tools, air and electric winches, paint spray equipment, permanent bridge air lines, and other machinery and equipment as required
โ€ข Performs major rebuilding, repair, manufacturing and/or removal replacement of mechanical components on machinery and equipment, including engines, transmissions, gear boxes, planetary drives, clutches, differentials, torque converters, pumps, hydraulic systems, valves, electrical systems and associated parts
โ€ข Operates and refuels portable air compressors, front end loaders, travelling scaffolds, air compressors and equipment and other machinery and equipment that the District owns or rents
โ€ข Responsible for normal and reasonable care of all District owned property, equipment and tools provided. Adheres to shop and equipment safety and housekeeping practices as required by District policy and agencies such as Cal OSHA and Industrial Safety
โ€ข Assists in training apprentices
โ€ข Knows and follows the safety and health rules and safe working practices applicable to his or her job.
โ€ข Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with District employees, customers, vendors and all others contacted during the course of work using principles of excellent customer service
โ€ข Performs additional related duties as assigned
โ€ข Regular and reliable attendance and performance is required
Minimum Qualifications
Education and/or Experience:
  • Completion of four year apprenticeship program or equivalent
  • Four years' recent experience with two and four cycle gasoline and diesel engines, air compressors, differentials, brakes (mechanical, hydraulic and air) and DC electrical; operation, lubrication, service and minor repairs to front end loaders, drawbar graders, air compressors, bulldozers, backhoes and equipment towing vehicles, Operation of machine shop tools common to repair shops such as drill presses, grinders, valve reseating and re-facing tools, lathes, presses, reamers, cylinders hones, etc. Laying, rolling and handling of asphalt (building of roadways, bike paths, etc.).

Required License:
  • Must be able to obtain a Class A Driver's License within the probationary period and continue to maintain a satisfactory Class A Driver License.
  • No reckless driving and DUI within the last 7 years. No more than 2 moving violations within the last 3 years. Operates District vehicles on a regular basis.
  • Please be advised that, at this time, we are only accepting applicants with a valid California CDL that meets permanent (non-limited-term) legal presence requirements. Licenses issued as limited-term are not accepted for this position.

Physical Requirement:
Work outside in cold and other inclement weather. Able to stand for long periods. Position requires frequent bending and reaching. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Climb ladders. Ability to perform work in high places. Work comfortably at considerable heights and on suspended scaffolds. Ability to coon beams (Cal OSHA approved).
This position may have a potential for or actual exposure to lead. Pursuant to OSHA regulations, District employees are not exposed to lead at concentrations greater than 10 micrograms per cubic meter (ยตg/m3) of air averaged over an 8-hour period.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of:
โ€ข Occupational health and safety rules and working practices applicable to this position
โ€ข Knowledge of steering, electric, air hydraulic, brake, fuel and power train systems to include basis knowledge and experience with internal combustion powered vehicles, machinery and equipment, methods and tools
Ability to:โ€ข Read written directions.
โ€ข Cooperate and work closely with other Bridge Division employees and shop department personnel.
โ€ข Communicate orally and in writing with co-workers and supervisors concerning work in progress.
The following are some of the excellent benefits that the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District offers to its employees:
  • Paid Time-Off: Competitive vacation accruals, generous sick leave accruals, holidays per year, and floating holiday(s).
  • Health Plans: The District offers three (3) medical plans, namely PERS Kaiser HMO plan, PERS Gold PPO plan, and PERS Platinum PPO plan, with a District contribution toward the premium. All plans offer an HRA reimbursement account for out-of-pocket expenses associated with your District-sponsored group health and prescription drug plans.
  • Retirement Programs are available through CalPERS or an applicable Union Pension Plan, Mission Square 457 B, 401 (a) and Social Security.
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA): A FSA allows pre-tax dollars to be set aside to pay for certain health and dependent care expenses for you and your family. This can be used for Health Care Reimbursement Account and Dependent Daycare Reimbursement Account.
  • Life Insurance: The District provides a basic life and accidental death insurance benefit. Life insurance is used to replace the lost income of the deceased. Life insurance coverage is provided through Minnesota Life.
  • Employee Assistance Program: This is a confidential and free service that provides support, counseling, referrals, and resources for issues that impact your life. The EAP program offers support or assistance for financial/legal concerns, depression, stress, parenting and family issues, and child and elder care. Services are available 24 hours-a-day and are available to all family members.
  • Plus excellent dental, vision, disability, professional development and more.

*Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice.
**The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District is a Social Security participant.
For more details about benefits or retirement, please contact Human Resources at (415) 257-4526 or email benefits@goldengate.org.
01
An official CA DMV K4 report is required to complete your application. Have you submitted your official K4 driving record, issued by a California Department of Motor Vehicles kiosk or office (self-printed copies are NOT accepted)
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a valid California Class A license?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question