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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

CNC Machinist/Programmer

Houston, TX · On-site

$25.25 - $34.50/hr

The potential candidate shall be proficient in all aspects of CNC programming, machining and ... apprentice machine tool operators. Basic Qualifications: * The applicant must have completed a 4 ...

CNC Machinist/Programmer

Houston, TX · On-site

$25.25 - $34.50/hr

The potential candidate shall be proficient in all aspects of CNC programming, machining and ... apprentice machine tool operators. Basic Qualifications: * The applicant must have completed a 4 ...

Mobile Building Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$30.60 - $36/hr

... most efficient operating results and life expectancy. Can include HVAC, boiler, heating ... Trade school or apprentice program preferred Experience * Minimum 4+ years technical building ...

Responsible for maintaining clear communication with Train Engineer/Operator and other crew members ... You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship ...

Railroad Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Responsible for maintaining clear communication with Train Engineer/Operator and other crew members ... You must have advanced knowledge of the railroad industry from vocational education, apprenticeship ...

Nuclear Engineer

Highlands, TX

$86K - $103K/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

Anahuac, TX

$81K - $97K/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

Seabrook, 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

Liberty, TX

$86K - $103K/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

Hitchcock, TX

$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

Alvin, TX

$80K - $96K/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

Santa Fe, 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

Baytown, 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

Houston, TX

$94K - $112K/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

Manvel, TX

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Rosenberg, 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 ...

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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.
Chief Engineer (Working Supervisor)

Chief Engineer (Working Supervisor)

Innovative Consulting & Management Services

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description:

Innovative Consulting & Management Services (ICMS) is a Professional & Technical Management Consulting firm with over 20 years of consulting experience. We offer technical professional services to Federal and State Governments, and Commercial clients. ICMS is a Small Business and Certified HUBZone employer. We deliver value to our clients by combining deep industry knowledge with strong functional capabilities. Our focus is to manage cost-effective programs while at the same time mitigating risk and improving results. Our success is with teamwork, a coordinated effort from all disciplines, from clients to consultants and most important, it’s about delivering on our commitments.



ICMS is seeking a Chief Engineer (Working Supervisor) to lead and oversee the technical operations of a federal facility. This is a working supervisor role, responsible for all aspects of facility operations, maintenance, and repairs. The Chief Engineer will train and supervise journeyman and apprentice personnel, inspect and has oversight of the Preventive maintenance program and repairs, and details the Critical Equipment Condition Assessment Repairs and Reporting.


Duties and Responsibilities:

  • As the designated supervisor, manage all O&M tasks at multiple facilities
  • Inspection and oversight of PMs and mechanical repairs
  • Critical Equipment Condition Assessment Repair and Reporting to Project Manager
  • Manage, train, and monitor MEP personnel in the proper operation, troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance of building equipment
  • Maintain currency and records for training and certifications including licensure, safety, and operational equipment training
  • Manage and inspect the Preventative Maintenance Program, ensuring efficient scheduling, execution, and documentation
  • Perform Critical Equipment inspections, identifying issues or trending activity and reporting conditions to management
  • Provide hands-on experience in HVAC repairs, including replacing seals, refrigerant handling, correcting malfunctions, motor replacements, controls, sensors, gauges, and repairing pipe leaks
  • Perform boiler repairs, including replacing seals, leak repairs, correcting operational deficiencies, motor replacements, controls, sensors, and repairing pipe leaks
  • Troubleshoot and repair pumps, including leak repairs, seal and shaft replacements, motor replacements, and alignments
  • Utilize, manage, and troubleshoot DDC and building automation systems (BAS) for troubleshooting, controlling and optimizing energy and water efficiency
  • Conduct daily tours of facility, reporting or correcting any issues found
  • Monitor properties for safety concerns, taking corrective action when necessary
  • Troubleshoot all facility equipment, ensuring quick and efficient problem resolution
  • Read and interpret contract specifications and drawings to ensure compliance with project requirements.
Requirements:
  • Minimum ten (10) years of experience in facility operations and maintenance, with verifiable expertise in troubleshooting, repair, and replacement of equipment.
  • At least five (5) years of recent (within the past 7 years) experience in directing operation and maintenance of equipment in a supervisory capacity, knowledge of the operation of site specific major pieces of equipment and system operation.
  • EPA 608 Certification required
  • A/C Refrigeration Operator Certification required
  • One or more of the following certifications (or equivalent experience):

- N.A.P.E. Air Conditioning III – Operations and Management (National Association of Power Engineers)

- Advanced Boiler Operator Certification

- International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) (Class 2 minimum, Class 1 preferred) stationary engineer

  • Demonstrated experience in operating, troubleshooting, repair and replacement of building specific equipment to include the following:

- Performing required scheduled and unscheduled maintenance and repair for Multi-story, and Multi-tenant Building of 160,000 sq or greater.

- Ability to operate and maintain Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, BAS, and HVAC systems & equipment

- A minimum of 2 years of recent (within the past 5 years) Siemens BAS systems, NCMMS, boilers, energy recovery equipment and chillers over 600 tons and other characteristics of the equipment to be operated and maintained under this Contract.

- Experience operating and maintaining low pressure boilers, and chillers over 250 Tons.

- Ability to operate and knowledge of fire protection and life safety systems and equipment to include Public Address systems.

- Knowledge of architectural and structural systems, fixtures and equipment

- Ability to conduct Service Request Desk Operation including Maximo NCMMS or similar programs.

- Maintenance of landscape irrigation systems, and computerized lighting systems

- Ability to operate and maintain egress and access systems to include: locks, keys, keycard system, vehicle barrier system, static and dynamic bollard systems, dock levelers and bumpers, roll-up and sliding garage doors.

- Experience with storm drainage, and sanitary sewage equipment and systems

  • Strong leadership and supervisory skills; ability to train and mentor personnel
  • Experience implementing preventive maintenance programs to reduce downtime and prevent equipment failures
  • Proficiency in managing HVAC personnel and general maintenance workers (GMWs), ensuring high-quality work performance.
  • Fluent in English (spoken, written, and reading comprehension)
  • Must be available outside of standard working hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to respond to emergencies, urgent operational needs, or other unforeseen situations as required
  • Experience in government contracting is highly desired
  • Must meet federal government security clearance standards, requiring at least a Public Trust background investigation.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

  • Ability to climb ladders, use power tools, and perform heavy physical labor as needed
  • Exposure to wet, humid conditions, chemicals, fumes, and dust
  • Work may include outdoor exposure to inclement weather

Security Clearance:

It is mandatory that all Contractor personnel working onsite at federal facilities meet federal government security clearance standards. Minimum investigation at a Public Trust level required.


Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Life and Accidental AD&D Insurance
  • 401K Retirement plan
  • 11 Paid Government Holidays
  • Generous sick and vacation leave

Job Type: Full Time Onsite Position

Work schedules are subject to change based on client and company needs. As a management position, this person will be on call regularly and be available for and respond to emergencies off shift.


*This is a contingent hire position based upon the award of contract.

Citizenship requirement: U.S. Citizenship


ICMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability or veteran status, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.



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