ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Hammond, IN · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and ...

JLL

Apprentice Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Apprentice Engineer will work under supervision and focus on working safely. This is an ... Work closely under the direction of Operating Engineers, Chief Engineers and others * Participate ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Hammond, IN · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Hammond, IN · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment ... with derailments as well as engineering work, track maintenance, disaster response, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Chicago, IL is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,187 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

OPERATING ENGINEER I (DEPARTMENT OF FACILITIES MANAGEMENT) COUNTYWIDE-OPR ENG- 399

Cook County Offices

Chicago, IL • On-site

$62.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Cook County Offices
Under The President
Administrative Hearings
Auditor
Bureau of Administration
Bureau of Economic Development
Bureau of Finance
Bureau of Human Resources
Bureau of Technology
Facilities
Office of the President
Job Summary
Under the supervision of the Operating Engineer IV, Operating Engineer III and the Operating Engineer II, assists in the operations, monitoring, and maintenance of buildings, and power plant mechanical and operating systems. These systems include heating; ventilation; air conditioning; water pumping; refrigeration; life safety; security; building automation; and energy conservation to supply heat, light, and electrical power for hospitals, residential institutions, and other County facilities. Supervises Mechanical Assistants; Firemen; Fireman Helper; Boiler Washer and other staff as directed. Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Successful completion of an approved and recognized apprenticeship program pursuant to attaining Journeyman status as an Operating Engineer is required.
  • Current Stationary Engineer's License issued by the City of Chicago is required.
  • Possession of a CFC (Chlorofluorocarbon) certification is required.
This position is considered a safety-sensitive position. Candidates who are selected to fill safety-sensitive positions must pass a required drug test as part of the pre-employment background check process.
https://www.cookcountyil.gov/sites/default/files/service/drug-and-alcohol-policy.pdf
Candidates who are contacted will be required to produce original required documents (e.g., current driver's license, diploma, school transcript, certifications, etc.) listed on the Notice of Job Opportunity within five (5) days of being extended an offer, in writing, by the Bureau Chief of BHR (or designee). Candidates will be notified of how to submit required documents.
*Degrees awarded outside of the United States with the exception of those awarded in one of the United States territories and Canada, must be credentialed by the World Education Services (WES), Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or a National Association of Credential Evaluation (NACES) member organization.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
  • Knowledge of commercial and industrial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and mechanical systems.
  • Knowledge of commercial and industrial electrical, plumbing, and steam-fitting systems.
  • Skill in locating and identifying equipment maintenance problems, making emergency repairs and taking corrective action.
  • Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to read mechanical drawings and blueprints.
  • Ability to supervise Mechanical Assistants, Firemen, Fireman Helpers, Boiler Washer and other staff as directed.
  • This position occasionally requires various types of physical exertion, including, but not limited to lifting, pulling, pushing, and moving objects of moderate to heavy weight.
Physical Requirements
Very Heavy work involves exerting in excess of 100 pounds of force occasionally, or in excess of 50 pounds of force frequently or in excess of 20 pounds of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
The duties listed are not set forth for purposes of limiting the assignment of work. They are not to be construed as a complete list of the many duties normally to be performed under a job title or those to be performed temporarily outside an employee's normal line of work.
VETERAN'S PREFERENCE
When applying for employment with Cook County Government, preference is given in the application process to honorably discharged Veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States for more than 180 consecutive days, or during War Time. To take advantage of this preference a Veteran must:
  • MEET THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE POSITION.
  • IDENTIFY THEMSELVES AS A VETERAN ON THEIR EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION BY ANSWERING YES TO THE QUESTION "Are you a military veteran?"
  • ATTACH A COPY OF THEIR DD 214, DD 215 or NGB 22 (NOTICE OF SEPARATION) AT TIME OF APPLICATION FILING. IF YOU HAVE MULTIPLE DD 214S, 215S, OR NGB 22S, PLEASE SUBMIT THE ONE WITH THE LATEST DATE. COAST GUARD MUST SUBMIT A CERTIFIED COPY OF THE MILITARY SEPARATION FROM EITHER THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (BEFORE 911) OR THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (AFTER 911).

The Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs can assist you with obtaining a certified DD214 and having it recorded for you at no charge. Please contact veterans.affairs@cookcountyil.gov
VETERAN MUST PROVIDE ORIGINAL APPLICABLE DISCHARGE PAPERS AT TIME OF INTERVIEW.
  • Group and Voluntary Benefits Offered:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision
    • Basic Term Life Insurance
    • Pension Plan
    • Deferred Compensation Program
    • Employee Assistance Program
    • Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
    • Voluntary Benefits
    • You May Qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
    For further information on our excellent benefits package, please click on the following link: http://www.cookcountyrisk.com
    Hourly Wage: $62.050- $62.050
    *This position requires successful completion of post-offer tests, which may include a background check, drug screen and medical examination.

Falsification of any information in the application process will result in disqualification, dismissal after hire, and/or placement on the County's Ineligible for Rehire List for a period of two (2) or five (5) years. For current County employees, such falsification may result in discipline, up to and including termination, and placement on the County's Ineligible for Rehire List for a period of two (2) or five (5) years. See Cook County Code of Ordinances, Article II, Sections 44-54 Unlawful Practices Relating to Employees and Employment - Penalty , 44-56 Political Discrimination ; Cook County Employment Plan, Section V.N. Pre-Interview License and Certification Verification ; Supplemental Policy No. 2014-2.13 Ineligible for Rehire List ; and Cook County Personnel Rules 3.3(b) (7) (d)
EEO Statement
Cook County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") employer. Cook County prohibits illegal discrimination and harassment and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, source of income, housing status, military service or discharge status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected category established by law, statute or ordinance as further defined in Chapter 44. Human Resources, Article II. Personnel Polices, Section 44-53 of the Cook County Code of Ordinances and Chapter 42. Human Relations, Article II. Human Rights, Section 42-35 of the Cook County Code of Ordinances.
NOTE: As an internal candidate, should you be offered the position, salary allocations shall abide by the Cook County Personnel Rules.
*Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Social Media Disclaimer
The County's hiring process is governed by the Cook County Employment Plan which prohibits employment actions from being influenced by any Political Reasons or Factors for Non-Exempt Positions. The advertisement of this position by any individual does not constitute an offer or promise of employment, promotion, or any other employment action and shall not influence the County's hiring decision. Cook County officials and employees who become aware of or receive a complaint that involves an allegation of Political Reasons or Factors being considered in the hiring process of Non-Exempt positions are obligated to refer the complaint to the Cook County - Office of the Inspector General. If the Cook County Inspector General sustains allegations of Political Reasons or Factors being considered, Cook County will disqualify the Applicant or Candidate from consideration for employment and disciplinary action will be imposed on any involved Cook County employees, if applicable.

Apply