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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Grapevine, TX

Vocational training, associate's degree, certification and/or apprenticeship in one or more area ... operating office equipment. * Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

Vocational training, associate's degree, certification and/or apprenticeship in one or more area ... operating office equipment. * Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.

Nuclear Engineer

Richardson, TX

$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

Roanoke, TX

$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

Keller, TX

$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

Hurst, TX

$87K - $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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Mesquite, TX

$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

Arlington, TX

$88K - $106K/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

Irving, TX

$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

Celina, TX

$88K - $106K/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

Bartonville, TX

$89K - $106K/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

Savannah, TX

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Ponder, TX

$90K - $108K/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

Mckinney, TX

$91K - $109K/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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Grapevine, TX salary details

$11

$20

$34

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Grapevine, TX is $20.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.21 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 Grapevine, TX are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Grapevine, TX with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:

Additive Manufacturing Technician Apprentice

GKN Aerospace

Westlake, TX • On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


GKN Aerospace rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.
GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we're inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We're proud to play a part in protecting the world's democracies. And we're committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 32 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.6bn in 2025. There are no limits to where you can take your career.
Job Summary
As a Technician Apprentice, you will work in cross-discipline team. Your everyday tasks will be to work within GKN Aerospace's US Global Technology Center operating and maintaining some of the world's largest Laser Wire Directed Energy Deposition (DED) Additive Manufacturing (AM) equipment. You will take on a wide range of tasks focused on AM equipment operation as well as general shop work such as operating a CNC mill, bandsaw, hand saws, drills, and other hand tools, while working in collaboration with technology engineers.
You will support development, integration and implement technical solutions and documentation compliant with all relevant customer, regulatory, and airworthiness requirements, within agreed program, schedule, and manufacturing constraints.
Job Responsibilities
  • Willingness to learn manufacturing equipment including Directed Energy Deposition (DED) Additive Manufacturing (AM), CNC mill, manual mill, saws, various lifting equipment, 3D Scanner
  • Carry out written operation instructions
  • Support internal engineering
  • May be required to work alternative hours as necessary with sufficient advisory periodically
  • Actively participate in program to promote Health & Safety of team members.
  • Follow our Golden Safety rules
  • Sometimes required to spend long hours sitting at a workstation and using office equipment
  • Will need to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move up to 40 pounds of equipment or materials
  • Will be required to reach with arms and hands and to stoop, kneel or crouch
  • Use machine tools to cut, drill, machine, or general fabrication skills as needed
  • Support operations in shipping and receiving (ordering, packaging, palletizing parts)

Job Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 6+ months of hands on experience in manufacturing, machining, fabrication, maintenance, robotics, automotive, or a related technical field.
  • Ability to read and follow written work instructions and procedures.
  • Proficient use of hand tools to disassemble and reassemble mechanical components
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office tools.
  • Must be able to perform work subject to ITAR regulations and/or program requirements

Preferred Qualifications
  • Excellent in co-operation, networking, team-working
  • Experience with metal fabrication in welding, robotics, mechatronics, or machining
  • Aerospace industry experience a plus
  • Experience with new product development
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes
  • Worked in cross-functional teams

We'll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go?
A Great Place to work needs a Great Way of Working
Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we've created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. It's a culture that won us 'The Best Workplace Culture Award'. By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work.
We're also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know.
We are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology.

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