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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Manufacturing Engineer

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

This includes drawings, inspection documents, tool layouts, offset sheets, operator and setup ... Helping and training Engineering Assistant /Apprentice. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES This job has ...

Develop and manage engineering department budgets and support overall facility operating budgets ... Trade school certification, union apprenticeship training, military technical training, or college ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hinsdale, IL

$99K - $118K/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

Kildeer, IL

$100K - $120K/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

Saint Charles, IL

$96K - $115K/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

Hillside, IL

$96K - $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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Harvey, IL

$94K - $113K/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

Schererville, IN

$89K - $107K/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

Rockdale, IL

$95K - $113K/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 ...

... 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

Lansing, IL

$96K - $115K/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

Homewood, IL

$94K - $113K/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

Knollwood, IL

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Inverness, IL

$97K - $117K/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

Kenilworth, IL

$101K - $121K/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

Phoenix, IL

$92K - $111K/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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Showing results 1-20

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 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.
CNC Lathe programmer/setup/operator

CNC Lathe programmer/setup/operator

C&L Supreme

Des Plaines, IL

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

C&L Supreme, a contract manufacturer of precision CNC machined components and assemblies, is seeking highly experienced CNC Machine Operator to join our team in Des Plaines, IL.

SIGNING BONUS $400

The CNC Lathe programmer/setup/operator focuses on CNC turning machine; Programming and Set Up experience required. Machines will be lathe with live tooling Machines.

Do you like working with your hands?

Do you enjoy figuring out how to make things from raw materials?

Do you enjoy seeing your hard work produce results?

We offer a position that will fulfill your ingenuity and creativity.

Responsibilities:

  • Machine operation with machines of close tolerances; some up to .0005
  • Work within quoted time constraints
  • Work within ISO quality standards

Desired Skills:

  • Knowledge and experience of fourth axis machining a plus
  • Knowledge of CNC turning
  • Good communication skills

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Must be able to read and write English.
  • Minimum 1 -3 years previous CNC turning experience
  • Apprentice certification a plus

C&L SUPREME logo

About C&L SUPREME

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Des Plaines, IL, US

Year founded

1957