1

Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Operating Engineer

Houston, TX

$66K - $89K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Maintenance & Repairs Perform preventive maintenance and ... High School Diploma or GED (trade school/apprentice program preferred) * 4+ years of technical ...

Operating Engineer

Houston, TX

$67K - $91K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE * 3+ years of related ...

Operating Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE • 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Houston, TX

$67K - $91K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE • 5+ years of related work ...

Lead Operating Engineer

Houston, TX

$86K - $113K/yr

Job Title Lead Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE * 5+ years of related ...

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 ...

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 ...

The Apprentice Engineer is responsible for completing work orders, grounds maintenance, painting ... operating costs at a minimum. * Maintain the building lighting system, including element and ...

The Apprentice Engineer is responsible for completing work orders, grounds maintenance, painting ... operating costs at a minimum. * Maintain the building lighting system, including element and ...

The Apprentice Engineer is responsible for completing work orders, grounds maintenance, painting ... operating costs at a minimum. * Maintain the building lighting system, including element and ...

The Apprentice Engineer is responsible for completing work orders, grounds maintenance, painting ... operating costs at a minimum. * Maintain the building lighting system, including element and ...

... our Engineering team. Under general supervision, the Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice performs work as needed to maintain and repair facility mechanical, electrical, and plumbing operating systems.

... our Engineering team. Under general supervision, the Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice performs work as needed to maintain and repair facility mechanical, electrical, and plumbing operating systems.

... our Engineering team. Under general supervision, the Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice performs work as needed to maintain and repair facility mechanical, electrical, and plumbing operating systems.

... our Engineering team. Under general supervision, the Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice performs work as needed to maintain and repair facility mechanical, electrical, and plumbing operating systems.

... our Engineering team. Under general supervision, the Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice performs work as needed to maintain and repair facility mechanical, electrical, and plumbing operating systems.

... our Engineering team. Under general supervision, the Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice performs work as needed to maintain and repair facility mechanical, electrical, and plumbing operating systems.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$21

$35

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Houston, TX is $21.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $22.93 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 Houston, TX? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,743 per year, or $21 per hour.
Operating Engineer

$66K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 154 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title

Operating Engineer

Job Description Summary

Job Description

Maintenance & Repairs

Perform preventive maintenance and timely repairs for:

  • HVAC systems

  • Boilers

  • Plumbing and electrical systems

  • Building interiors/exteriors

  • Handle major repairs, including:

    • Compressors, condensers, water piping, and electrical panels

Operate and maintain systems:

  • Automation, fire/life safety, sewer, and trash systems

  • Conduct facility inspections and provide reports

General Maintenance

  • Perform minor repairs:

    • Toilets, lighting, furniture, doors, and filters

  • Conduct painting and cleaning in equipment rooms and mechanical spaces

Safety & Compliance

  • Adhere to safety procedures, codes, and company policies

  • Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and complete safety training

  • Respond to emergencies and ensure workplace safety

Administrative Tasks

  • Maintain inventory control

  • Compile monthly reports on building operations

  • Manage and maintain assigned company vehicles

Key Competencies

  • Communication, problem-solving, and technical proficiency

  • Strong organizational and interpersonal skills

Requirements

Education & Experience

  • High School Diploma or GED (trade school/apprentice program preferred)

  • 4+ years of technical experience in building engineering, including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems

Licenses & Certifications

  • Valid driver’s license

  • “Universal” EPA Section 608 Certification for refrigerants

  • Applicable trade licenses (e.g., Electrician, Steam Engineer)

Skills

  • Expertise in HVAC, boilers, energy systems, and equipment maintenance

  • Familiarity with energy management systems

  • Basic computer skills (Outlook, Excel, Word)

Physical & Work Environment

  • Frequent lifting (50 lbs.), standing, climbing, bending, and driving

  • Exposure to loud noises, varying weather conditions, and PPE requirements

  • Must be able to respond to emergencies and work flexible/on-call hours

Note: Duties and responsibilities may change as needed.


Cushman & Wakefield provides equal employment opportunity. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated. Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative​ Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without  regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or email HRServices@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.

INCO: “Cushman & Wakefield”

What Cushman & Wakefield employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom