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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Milwaukee, WI

CNC Programmer

Port Washington, WI · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in CNC/Wire EDM machine operating and programming or completion of CNC apprenticeship program. Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (Esprit, Mastercam, AutoCAD ...

CNC Programmer Machinist II

Fredonia, WI · On-site

$25.50 - $35/hr

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in CNC/Wire EDM machine operating and programming or completion of CNC apprenticeship program. * Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (Esprit, Mastercam, AutoCAD ...

Be Seen First

Identify and correct errors or recommend potential improvements in the drawings to engineers and/or ... apprentices or other machinists/operators as needed and requested. · Operate a forklift or crane ...

Machine Operator - Gear Cutter

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

... operating gear cutting machines to produce high-quality gears according to engineering ... High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or apprenticeship preferred. * Minimum 2 ...

CNC Operator 3

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$23.60 - $35.40/hr

Monitor and control machine, tooling, and/or programming to ensure parts meet customer requirements ... Apprenticeship Programs * Off-Site Team Building Events * On-Site Cookouts and Celebrations

CNC Operator 4

Waukesha, WI · On-site

$30 - $38.50/hr

Work with Engineering to program CNC machines * Monitor and control machine, tooling, and/or ... Apprenticeship Programs * Off-Site Team Building Events * On-Site Cookouts and Celebrations

This role focuses on operating and setting up EDM sinkers, mills, lathes, and wire EDM machines in ... Collaborate with Engineering on fixture design and process improvements * Maintain production ...

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Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Milwaukee, WI is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Milwaukee, WI? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,130 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
CNC Programmer

CNC Programmer

SEEK Careers Staffing

Port Washington, WI • On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

The CNC Programmer/Machinist II will be responsible for creating and modifying CNC/Wire EDM programs to produce precision tool and die components, weld fixtures, and inspection gages. This role requires a strong understanding of CNC/Wire EDM machines, CAD/CAM software, and tool and die manufacturing processes.


RESPONSIBILITIES:

Translate technical drawings, blueprints, and 3D models into efficient CNC programs CNC/Wire EDM machine set up and operation

Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to CNC/Wire EDM machine operation or programming errors

Work closely with design engineers, machinists, toolmakers and other team members

rovide training and guidance to other employees on interpreting and running programs

Perform routine maintenance and updates on CNC/Wire EDM software and hardware

Other duties as assigned or required


QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in CNC/Wire EDM machine operating and programming

or completion of CNC apprenticeship program.

Proficiency in CAD/CAM software (Esprit, Mastercam, AutoCAD, SolidWorks)

Strong knowledge of CNC machines, tools, and manufacturing processes

bility to read and interpret blueprints, GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing)

Ability to design and make fixtures for setups

Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Effective communication and teamwork abilities

Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise and machinery


Please send your resume to: tsickles@seekcareers.com. Call (or text!) Toni at (262) 377-8888 or apply online at www.seekcareers.com.


About SEEK Careers/Staffing

You are a person with unique skills, experience and education.When you want to be heard and when you want to be matched with great career opportunities that are right for you, you can count on SEEK Careers/Staffing, Inc.Since 1971, our professional staffing consultants have been Servicing Your Success®.You’ll find that the process is thorough and that your experience is personalized.

SEEK Careers/Staffing is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against otherwise qualified applicants on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, age, sex, marital status, national origin, disability or handicap, genetic, military status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

ASK ABOUT OUR $100 REFERRAL BONUS PROGRAM!


SEEK Careers/Staffing logo

About SEEK Careers/Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

SEEK was founded in 1971 by Carol Ann Schneider, CPC, SPHR, a Grafton, Wisconsin resident. The name SEEK was derived from a combination of initials in Carol’s family. It was a tradition that names derived in such a way would bring success to that person or business. So, from Carol’s home, SEEK assignment employees were sent to serve the temporary needs of Ozaukee County business people. The business grew and was eventually incorporated in 1975. The Grafton office expanded from Carol’s home to several other buildings in town before finally settling in their current location on Opportunity Drive in Grafton in 1997. Currently, there are 19 total branch offices with 16 located throughout Wisconsin and a recent acquisition has expanded SEEK’s portfolio to 3 branch offices in the Twin Cities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Grafton, WI, US

Year founded

1971