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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Killeen, TX

Lochridge-Priest Inc

Plumbing Apprentice

Temple, TX · On-site

Lochridge-Priest is a family owned and operated company that has served the Central Texas area for ... We have our own Engineering team and a sheet metal shop, Advanced Sheet Metal. With offices in Waco ...

Lochridge-Priest Inc

Plumbing Apprentice

Killeen, TX

Lochridge-Priest is a family owned and operated company that has served the Central Texas area for ... We have our own Engineering team and a sheet metal shop, Advanced Sheet Metal. With offices in Waco ...

SpaceX

Apprentice Weld Support Technician

Mcgregor, TX

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

APPRENTICE WELD SUPPORT TECHNICIAN We are currently seeking to fill a weld support technician ... Perform tasks such as: plasma table programming, operating a band saw and chop saw, manually ...

SpaceX

Apprentice Weld Support Technician

Mcgregor, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

APPRENTICE WELD SUPPORT TECHNICIAN We are currently seeking to fill a weld support technician ... Perform tasks such as: plasma table programming, operating a band saw and chop saw, manually ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Holland, 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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Lampasas, 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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Nolanville, 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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Moody, TX

$95K - $114K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Kempner, TX

$80K - $95K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Pendleton, TX

... 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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Salado, TX

$87K - $104K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Jarrell, TX

$95K - $114K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Leander, 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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Bartlett, 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 ...

Knife River Corporation

READY MIX DRIVER

Mcgregor, TX · On-site

$21.50 - $27/hr

Pavements and Construction Equipment Helper Pavements and Construction Equipment Apprentice ... Engineer Equipment Operator ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative ...

All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Killeen, TX

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Killeen, TX salary details

$10

$19

$33

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Killeen, TX is $19.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $21.49 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 cities near Killeen, TX are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities near Killeen, TX with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you
Plumbing Apprentice

Plumbing Apprentice

Lochridge-Priest Inc

Temple, TX • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

We are growing! Join our team and build your career with us!   

Lochridge-Priest is a family owned and operated company that has served the Central Texas area for over 50 years. Also, we are the largest provider of residential and commercial heating and air-conditioning services as well as plumbing services in Central Texas. We have recently expanded our electrical and building automation service areas. We have our own Engineering team and a sheet metal shop, Advanced Sheet Metal. With offices in Waco, Temple, Ft. Worth, and Corsicana and over 400 dedicated employees, we're dedicated to serving your home, business, and industrial comfort needs. We work as a team to deliver best in class service to our customers.

If you are passionate about learning a new trade or advancing your current skills into a long-term sustainable career, then you will want to come and work with the most skilled plumbing team in Central Texas. As a plumbing apprentice you will be assisting and learning from a top Journeyman plumber and earning competitive wages and benefits, as well as hours, that build up to earn you further advancement in plumbing licenses. Plumbing is a thriving industry, however this is not an easy job.

Company Benefits

  • Medical, Dental Vision, and Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401K with Company Match
  • Continuous Training

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Works with Journeyman Plumbers to assemble, install and repair plumbing and/or medgas systems according to project specifications and appropriate trade and building codes. These systems may consist of pipes, fittings, fixtures and boilers for hydronic heating, water, medgas and drainage systems.
  • Install supports and hangers for pipe, fixtures and equipment.
  • Ensures personal safety, job quality, and timely completion of each assigned project task.
  • Help prepare and keep the job site clean and organized through all phases of the job.
  • Requires Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for anyone entering and/or working on job site at all times.

Skills

  • Experience in Commercial plumbing preferred.
  • Must have current Apprentice license or be willing to work toward by a specified time.
  • Good analytical skills and attention to detail with ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans, and manuals.
  • Excellent customer service skills with desire to exceed customer expectations.
  • Ability to work independently in a timely manner, making sure job is done correctly the first time.

Additional Qualifications

  • Current Apprentice Plumber license preferred
  • Work as part of our team to ensure customer satisfaction
  • Valid social security number
  • Must be able to pass drug test(s) as required by company
  • Lift up to 50 pounds; be able to push, pull, carry or maneuver heavier items (with additional manpower or appropriate devices); carry ladders; work from heights, work in small crawl spaces.
  • Observe all company procedures and safety rules
  • Maintain accurate time records and send to payroll when required
  • Neat, professional appearance

Note: Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

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