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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Charleston, SC

SAIC

Cable Fabrication Technician I

North Charleston, SC · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

Associate's degree in Engineering Technology, math, or science or formal training from a Class A or ... apprentice program of high school diploma * No experience required with degree. Three (3) years ...

SAIC

Cable Fabrication Technician I

North Charleston, SC

$19 - $24.25/hr

Associate's degree in Engineering Technology, math, or science or formal training from a Class A or ... apprentice program of high school diploma * No experience required with degree. Three (3) years ...

SAIC

Cable Fabrication Technician

North Charleston, SC · On-site

$19 - $24.25/hr

... electronics apprentice program. Formal electronics training, to include: Installation Tasks ... operating equipment and tools * Must be able to move and arrange heavy cable supplies and ...

Thorne

Facilities Maintenance Technician

Summerville, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Working closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations, and Facilities teams, the Facilities ... Associate's degree in a technical field, completion of a formal apprenticeship, or equivalent trade ...

Thorne

Facilities Maintenance Technician

Summerville, SC

$27 - $31.75/hr

Working closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations, and Facilities teams, the Facilities ... Associate's degree in a technical field, completion of a formal apprenticeship, or equivalent trade ...

Thorne

Facilities Maintenance Technician

Summerville, SC · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Working closely with Manufacturing, Engineering, Operations, and Facilities teams, the Facilities ... Associate's degree in a technical field, completion of a formal apprenticeship, or equivalent trade ...

Ameri-Force

Outside Machinist (Per Diem)

Goose Creek, SC · On-site

$35/hr

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience operating manual machine tools, interpreting ... Interpret blueprints, sketches, and engineering specifications to determine machining sequences and ...

INEOS Styrolution

I&E Technician

SC · On-site

Monitor and troubleshoot Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC's) * Calibrate process control ... Works with operators to troubleshoot and repair equipment and instrumentation * Supports emergency ...

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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

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$34

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 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 September 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.

Cable Fabrication Technician I

North Charleston, SC • On-site

SAIC
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about SAICexternal

$19 - $24.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Description
Description
SAIC is seeking an Cable Fabrication Technician I for our North Charleston, SC customer site.
Job Duties: (include but are not limited to)
  • Perform cable fabrication work for multiple government projects
  • Read and interpret drawings, schematics, and cable run sheets to verify correct build of cables
  • Assemble cables to specifications via cable run sheets and/or schematics; to include but not limited to multi-pin connectors, RF cables, CAT5/6 cables
  • Assemble cable harnesses and junction box assemblies; including MIL-SPEC cylindrical connectors, back shells, terminal boxes, and radio frequency (RF)
  • Proficient in the use, care and maintenance of crimp tools, heat gun, and various electrical and mechanical tools
  • Able to become and maintain IPC certification

Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:
  • Associate's degree in Engineering Technology, math, or science or formal training from a Class A or B military school in electronics or communications or four year apprentice program of high school diploma
  • No experience required with degree. Three (3) years required with high school diploma
Clearance Requirements:
  • Must be a US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Government Common Access Card (CAC) to access government facilities, systems and meet customer requirements
Required Experience/Skills:
  • Must be able to safely complete all of the physical demands of the job in a warehouse environment, including but not limited to the following: Lifting, pulling, pushing and carrying up to 25 pounds, unassisted, on a regular basis. Walking, bending, stooping, sitting, standing or squatting for extended periods
  • Repeatedly manipulating and handling objects needed for cable fabrication, including reaching, grasping, twisting, turning and operating equipment and tools

Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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