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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

PremiStar

Controls Apprentice (Project)

Monona, WI · On-site

Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and field technicians to ensure successful system ... Must be able to use a laptop computer running a windows operating system. * Able to use Microsoft ...

Fisher-Barton Inc.

CNC Programmer

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$25.75 - $35.25/hr

Work closely with Machinists and Set-up Operators to prove out new programs and troubleshoot issues ... Apprenticeship Programs * Off-Site Team Building Events * On-Site Cookouts and Celebrations

Hooper Deforest

Project Manager - HVAC*

De Forest, WI · On-site

... distribution of all operating and maintenance manuals to customer . * Strengthen customer ... engineering field, construction management, or completion of apprenticeship in a respective ...

Hooper

Project Manager - HVAC*

De Forest, WI · On-site

... distribution of all operating and maintenance manuals to customer * Strengthen customer ... engineering field, construction management, or completion of apprenticeship in a respective ...

Hooper

Project Manager - Plumbing

De Forest, WI · On-site

... distribution of all operating and maintenance manuals to customer. * Strengthen customer ... engineering field, construction management, or completion of apprenticeship in a respective ...

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All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Madison, WI is $22.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $24.23 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 Madison, WI are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:

Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,162 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Controls Apprentice (Project)

Monona, WI • On-site

PremiStar
Facilities Support Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about PremiStarexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Program, configure, and download Building Automation Systems (BAS) for HVAC controls.
  • Install, test, start-up, and commission control systems to ensure proper functionality and project design.
  • Troubleshoot system issues and perform technical diagnostics onsite and remotely.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and field technicians to ensure successful system integration within project timelines.
  • Maintain and update project documentation including control drawings, programming files, and operation manuals.
  • Develops Database and stores backups for all customer sites.
  • Provide technical expertise to Account Managers for estimating purposes.
  • Coordinate and document customer training on BAS systems for usage and maintenance.
  • Complies with company, industry, and safety standards.
  • Provide technical support for ongoing service and warranty-related issues.
  • Complete start-up/commissioning forms and complete project punch list timely.

MINIMUM AND/OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION:
  • High School diploma or GED and a two-year technical training certificate concentrated in HVAC systems or completion of a union apprenticeship program. An equivalent combination of work experience and education requirements will be considered.

EXPERIENCE:
  • 1 - 3 years of experience in the HVAC controls industry preferred.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:
  • Electrical License Required.

SKILL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Knowledge of HVAC mechanical sequence of operations.
  • Must be able to use a laptop computer running a windows operating system.
  • Able to use Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
  • Must clearly communicate in verbal and written form.
  • Ability to work on a team and communicate effectively with others.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
This job operates in both an office and a field environment. Must be able to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time.
REASONABLE ACCOMODATION:
Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions unless doing so presents an undue hardship on the Company's business operations.
OTHER DUTIES:
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Employees understand the above job description and agree to comply with and be subject to its conditions. Employee further agrees this job description does not alter his/her at-will employment status. Employees understand the Company reserves the right to delegate, remove, expand or change all responsibilities. Employees acknowledge that he/she can fulfill the above duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
This is a union position.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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