1

Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Work closely with architects and engineers to resolve design-related construction issues. * Keep ... Complete job closeout process, resolving punch list items and distributing operating and ...

Work closely with architects and engineers to resolve design-related construction issues. * Keep ... Complete job closeout process, resolving punch list items and distributing operating and ...

Lead and teach our Process and Quality Engineers with planning, observing, recording, analyzing ... Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), process maps, and work instructions.

Lead and teach our Process and Quality Engineers with planning, observing, recording, analyzing ... Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), process maps, and work instructions.

Lead and teach our Process and Quality Engineers with planning, observing, recording, analyzing ... Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), process maps, and work instructions.

Lead and teach our Process and Quality Engineers with planning, observing, recording, analyzing ... Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), process maps, and work instructions.

Lead and teach our Process and Quality Engineers with planning, observing, recording, analyzing ... Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), process maps, and work instructions.

Lead and teach our Process and Quality Engineers with planning, observing, recording, analyzing ... Create and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs), process maps, and work instructions.

Showing results 41-55

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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:

Project Manager (Electrical Power)

Bemana, LLC

De Forest, WI โ€ข On-site

$95K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

We are searching for varying levels of Project Managers on behalf of our client, a well-respected electrical and mechanical contractor in the Deforest, WI area.

This role is geared toward distribution, transmission and substation construction projects.

Benefits:
  • Salary: $95k to $175k/year base salary (based on experience level). If your target pay is higher, we still encourage you to apply—we could request adjustments based on experience and market conditions.
  • Bonus Opportunity.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance.
  • 401k + 4% match.
  • Profit Sharing.
  • Paid Time Off.
  • 9 Paid Holidays.
  • Relocation Assistance.
  • Other great benefits!

Responsibilities:

  • Prepare project estimates, budgets, schedules, and assist in project contract negotiations.
  • Attend job site meetings, project progress reports, performance evaluations, safety meetings and working closely with field crew supervision.
  • Work closely with architects and engineers to resolve design related construction issues including timely processing and approvals of project shop drawings.
  • Keep customer fully informed of project progress and any significant issues and their effect on design or costs.
  • Plan, organize, direct, and coordinate manpower, equipment, tools, and supply needs within the department to achieve project objectives.
  • Purchase equipment and standardized materials.
  • Manage administrative aspects of contracts (change orders, rental equipment, timesheet coding, billing and expenses, collections, etc.).
  • Maintain sound union relationships with field employees and local business managers.
  • Complete job closeout process including resolution of "punch list" items, recording of "as-built drawings' to reflect all changes to originals, and distribution of all operating and maintenance manuals to customer.
  • Strengthen customer relationships through hosting and/or participating in company-supported events.
  • Actively pursue and acquire new business through developing and maintaining strong client relationships, presentations to prospective clients, sound understanding of proposed project plans, specifications, and other contractual documents.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum four years technical education in engineering field, construction management coursework or completion of apprenticeship in a respective discipline.
  • 5+ years of prior experience with related construction industry projects (Electric Power Distribution/Transmission and Substation).
  • Analytical and problem solving, strong interpersonal, and verbal and written communication skills.
  • Comfortable tracking and maintaining a wide range of project budgets.
  • Supervising field crew through foreman.

Application Process

If your experience matches the description above, submit your resume, and one of our recruiters will be in touch to tell you more about the position and learn more about your experience and aspirations.

If your experience does not match this job description, we still encourage you to reach out to one of our recruiters, so we can learn about your professional aspirations for future job openings.

About Bemana

Bemana provides recruiting services to the nation's equipment and industrial sectors. Our clients and candidates value us for our specialized recruiting expertise, vast knowledge of the equipment and industrial job market, and ability to solve their most challenging employment needs. We have successfully recruited thousands of top-level professionals filling a wide range of management, sales, engineering, and technical positions across the nation.

Welcome to Bemana and we look forward to getting to know more about you.

Referral Program

Bemana offers a $500 reward for referrals that lead to a hire. So, if this job or location is not for you, but you know someone that might be interested, send them this link and we'll send you a check if they get hired. Terms & conditions apply.


Bemana logo

About Bemana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Human resources consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Metairie, LA, US

Year founded

2014