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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Charleston, SC

JLL

Building Engineer

North Charleston, SC

Technical school training or apprenticeship completion in Electrical, HVAC, or Boiler technology * Journeyman or Master Electrician license * Boiler Operator License or Stationary Engineer License

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Mount Pleasant, SC

$94K - $112K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Ridgeville, SC

$97K - $116K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Summerville, SC

$88K - $105K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Hollywood, SC

$99K - $119K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Charleston, SC

$92K - $110K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Awendaw, SC

$93K - $112K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

North Charleston, SC

$94K - $112K/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 ...

SAIC

Engineering Technician

North Charleston, SC

... apprentice program; or High School diploma or GED. Experience: * Five (5) with degree/formal ... operating standard test equipment and records test data; extracting and compiling a variety of ...

SAIC

Engineering Technician

North Charleston, SC · On-site

... apprentice program; or High School diploma or GED. Experience: * Five (5) with degree/formal ... operating standard test equipment and records test data; extracting and compiling a variety of ...

SAIC

Engineering Technician

North Charleston, SC · On-site

... apprentice program; or High School diploma or GED. Experience: * Five (5) with degree/formal ... operating standard test equipment and records test data; extracting and compiling a variety of ...

SAIC

Engineering Technician

North Charleston, SC · On-site

... apprentice program; or High School diploma or GED. Experience: * Five (5) with degree/formal ... operating standard test equipment and records test data; extracting and compiling a variety of ...

SAIC

Engineering Technician

North Charleston, SC · On-site

... apprentice program; or High School diploma or GED. Experience: * Five (5) with degree/formal ... operating standard test equipment and records test data; extracting and compiling a variety of ...

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All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Charleston, SC

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$11

$20

$34

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Charleston, SC is $20.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $22.50 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 Charleston, SC are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:

Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Charleston, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,866 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Building Engineer

Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc.

North Charleston, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

JLL rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 288 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 204 rated real estate companies

Job description

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.
Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you're looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.
What this job involves:
As an Operating/Building Engineer, you'll play a critical role in keeping our facilities running at peak performance. This position centers on operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing facility equipment with an emphasis on Electrical systems, Boiler operations, and HVAC/Controls systems. You'll manage complex building systems, respond to emerging issues as they arise, and ensure our facilities meet and exceed applicable standards while our clients' operations continue seamlessly. At JLL, we are collectively shaping a brighter way for our clients, ourselves, and our fellow employees, and your specialized technical expertise will be essential to delivering the reliable, high-quality facility operations our clients depend on.
SHIFT/LOCATION: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM-2:30 PM, with overtime, holiday coverage, and additional hours as required. Primary work location is Ladson, SC, with occasional assignment to the North Charleston site as needed.
What your day-to-day will look like:
  • Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair Electrical systems, Boiler systems, and HVAC/Controls equipment to keep all facility and building systems performing to applicable standards
  • Perform preventative maintenance on HVAC systems, Building Automation Systems (BAS), and associated control equipment, including cleaning, inspecting, calibrating, programming, and replacing components to maintain optimum performance levels
  • Monitor and maintain boiler operations including combustion efficiency, water treatment, pressure controls, and safety systems to ensure safe and efficient operation
  • Troubleshoot and repair electrical systems including power distribution, motor controls, lighting systems, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and electrical components throughout the facility
  • Work with Building Automation Systems (BAS) to monitor, diagnose, and optimize HVAC controls, temperature setpoints, and automated sequences
  • Record equipment readings and system parameters, making necessary adjustments to ensure proper operation and identifying potential issues before they escalate
  • Perform electrical troubleshooting using meters, diagnostic tools, and technical documentation to identify and resolve system failures
  • Monitor the quality and pricing of maintenance work performed by outside contractors to ensure standards are met and costs remain competitive
  • Maintain responsibility for facility services, purchasing and inventory control, contracted maintenance coordination, and general maintenance tasks related to electrical, boiler, and HVAC systems
  • Perform periodic checks of specialized tools, test equipment, and instrument inventory to ensure all equipment is calibrated, properly maintained, and ready for use
  • Support plumbing and structural maintenance as needed to maintain overall facility operations

Required qualifications:
  • 5+ years of experience as a Electrician, Boiler Operator/Technician, and/or HVAC/Controls Technician in commercial building environments
  • Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas: Electrical systems and code compliance, Boiler operations and maintenance, HVAC systems and Building Automation/Controls
  • Ability to analyze the operation of various industrial Electrical, Boiler, HVAC, and Control systems, determine the cause of problems or malfunctions, and take corrective action
  • Working knowledge of CMMS (i.e. Corrigo) and computerized maintenance management systems
  • Experience working in mission-critical facilities or environments requiring 24/7 operations
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Physical ability to bend, sit, kneel, squat, stand, reach, and lay as required to access equipment components for extended periods of time
  • Ability to work exposed to varying environmental conditions including heat, sunlight, rain, cold, and both daylight and nighttime hours

Preferred qualifications:
  • Technical school training or apprenticeship completion in Electrical, HVAC, or Boiler technology
  • Journeyman or Master Electrician license
  • Boiler Operator License or Stationary Engineer License
  • EPA 608 Universal Certification for refrigerant handling
  • Industry certifications in HVAC/Controls
  • Advanced experience with Building Automation Systems (BAS) including programming, troubleshooting, and system optimization (e.g., Tridium, Johnson Controls, Siemens, Honeywell)
  • Experience with low-voltage controls, DDC systems, pneumatic controls, and control system integration
  • Familiarity with electrical code (NEC), boiler codes (ASME), and HVAC standards

This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Location:
On-site -North Charleston, SC
If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet all the requirements. We're interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!
Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:
JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:
  • 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
  • Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
  • Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
  • Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.
JLL Privacy Notice
Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading global provider of real estate and investment management services. We take our responsibility to protect the personal information provided to us seriously. Generally the personal information we collect from you are for the purposes of processing in connection with JLL's recruitment process. We endeavour to keep your personal information secure with appropriate level of security and keep for as long as we need it for legitimate business or legal reasons. We will then delete it safely and securely.
For more information about how JLL processes your personal data, please view our Candidate Privacy Statement.
For additional details please see our career site pages for each country.
For candidates in the United States, please see a full copy of our Equal Employment Opportunity policy here.
Jones Lang LaSalle ("JLL") is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process - including the online application and/or overall selection process - you may email us at HRSCLeaves@jll.com. This email is only to request an accommodation. Please direct any other general recruiting inquiries to our Contact Us page > I want to work for JLL.
Accepting applications on an ongoing basis until candidate identified.

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