1

Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

... 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.

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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Pinehurst, TX

$84K - $101K/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

Dayton, 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

Cleveland, 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

Bacliff, TX

$90K - $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

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

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

Fresno, TX

$83K - $99K/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

Pleak, TX

$83K - $100K/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

Needville, TX

$84K - $101K/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

Plantersville, TX

$84K - $101K/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 21-40

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$10

$18

$32

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Houston, TX is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.72 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,455 per year, or $19 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


ASM Global rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 83 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

135th of 254 rated facilities management


Job description

SummaryLegends Global, the leader in privately managed public assembly facilities, has an excellent and immediate opening for a Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice at Reliant Park in Houston, Texas. Reliant Park is in the fast lane for opportunity and excitement. We are a one-of-a-kind premier facility with four major venues within one giant park. Reliant Center (one million+ sq. ft. Convention Center), Reliant Stadium (home of the Houston Texans and The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo), Reliant Astrodome ("The" Astrodome), and Reliant Arena. We are seeking a unique Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice to join 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. Duties include semi-skilled tasks, which often require heavy lifting, a high degree of physical exertion and walking or standing for long periods of time. Acts as liaison between the facility and clients, ensuring all clients' requirements are met and facility rules, regulations and policies are adhered to.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesInclude the following:
  • Assist in maintaining, troubleshooting and repair of all kitchens mechanical exhaust fans, refrigeration and chilled water equipment and systems owned or operated by NRG Park. Equipment includes but is not limited to water treatment equipment, HVAC, chilled water systems, air handler units, and refrigerant reclamation.
  • Assist in performing coil cleaning and preventative maintenance on all types of equipment and may repair fountain water systems and related mechanical systems; domestic hot and cold-water systems and related equipment; sanitary pumps, tanks, fittings and valves; surge supply tanks, plumbing supplies and hoses.
  • Respond to building service calls and troubleshoot problems within facility and take corrective action.
  • Assist in preventive maintenance on plumbing and HVAC systems equipment located in multiple buildings as required for the safe and efficient operation of the facility.
  • Assist in the repair, inspection, and rebuilding of equipment to maintain quality standards on equipment and machinery at each facility.
  • Perform work in a manner consistent with plant safety, housekeeping standards and quality checks.
  • May perform other duties as assigned.
Supervisory Responsibilities
  • Not Applicable.
Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Understand the methods, principles, and practices required for the operation and maintenance of the mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems.
  • Use of basic hand and power tools.
  • Basic plumbing equipment operation knowledge, augers and sewer machines.
  • Must uphold Legends Global safety standards.
  • Must provide exceptional customer service.
  • Must be able to effectively work with others.
  • Follow oral and written instructions and communicate effectively with others in both oral and written form.
  • Remain flexible and adjust to situations as they occur.
  • Work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Work independently, exercising judgment and initiative.
  • Work effectively under pressure and/or stringent schedule and produce accurate results.
  • Maintain an effective working relationship with clients, employees, exhibitors, patrons and others encountered in the course of employment.
  • Define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
  • Organize and prioritize work to meet deadlines.
  • Work irregular schedule to ensure proper supervision of all events and activities scheduled in the facility, as required.
Education and/or Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Must obtain a Boiler Permit within 60 days of employment.
  • HVAC Certification is preferred but not required.
  • Technical support school or advanced electrical or refrigeration courses is a plus.
  • Any Level Type I, II, III of EPA Certification for refrigeration is a plus.
  • At least one (1) year certificate in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration is preferred but not required.
  • Any previous experience in operating the following equipment is a plus: Genie Lift, Forklift, JLG Boom-lift, and man-lifts as well as other motorized lifting equipment.
  • No prior experience is required, but any technical support school or advanced electrical, plumbing or refrigeration courses is a plus.
Skills and Abilities
  • Proper knowledge and usage of all equipment needed to perform required duties.
  • Understand the fundamentals of a Life Safety System.
  • Follow and adhere to all safety precautions, building codes, rules, regulations, risk management and emergency procedures.
Computer Skills
  • Operate standard office equipment and personal computer(s) using MS Windows, Excel, MS Word and PowerPoint.
Other Qualifications
  • Be licensed to operate a motor vehicle in the United States.
  • Possess any licenses, certificates or training required by local, state or national authorities for the operation of the equipment found in the facility.
Physical DemandsThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to move around the facility; to stand for long hours during events; talk and hear. This position may require work inside or outside of the building, as needed by events.
  • Must perform strenuous physical duties at times, including lifting, carrying, moving and climbing.
  • Must be able to lift 75lbs.
  • Must be able to stand and work on your feet for 8-10 hours a day.
  • Must be able to stretch and reach.
NoteThe essential responsibilities of this position are described below the above headings. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. Also, this document in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position.To ApplyPlease include a recent copy of your resume with a cover letter and salary requirements as part of your application.Only the first 150 resumes received will be considered.Applicants that need reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact the Human Resources Department at (832) 667-1803.Legends Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, and encourages Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and protected Veterans to apply. VEVRAA Federal Contractor

What ASM Global employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


ASM Global logo

About ASM Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ASM Global was formed in October 2019 from the merger of AEG Facilities, the global innovator in live entertainment venues, and SMG, the gold standard in event management. ASM Global is a venue management powerhouse that spans five continents, 14 countries and more than 300 of the world's most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention and exhibit centers, and performing arts venues. As the world's most trusted venue manager, ASM Global provides venue strategy and management, sales, marketing, event booking and programming, construction and design consulting, and pre-opening services. Among the venues in our portfolio are landmark facilities such as McCormick Place & Soldier Field in Chicago, the Los Angeles Convention Center, Tele2 Arena in Stockholm, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, the Shenzhen World Exhibition and Conference Centre in Shenzhen, China and Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place & DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids, Michigan. ASM Global also offers food and beverage operations through its concessions and catering companies.

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2019