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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Nuclear Engineer

Goodyear, AZ

$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

Carefree, AZ

$97K - $116K/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

Spring Valley, AZ

$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

Tolleson, AZ

$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

Anthem, AZ

$91K - $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 ...

... 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

Buckeye, AZ

$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

Chandler, AZ

$97K - $116K/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

Coolidge, AZ

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Maricopa, AZ

$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

Laveen, AZ

$93K - $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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Surprise, AZ

$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 ...

Mesa Energy Systems, Inc.

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

... engineering applications and automated control systems. * Maintain daily operations of boilers ... Complete daily checks and maintain necessary operating records. * Perform PM maintenance and ...

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Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

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How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Phoenix, AZ is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.85 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,481 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
Project Controls Engineer

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

As a 100% employee-owned contractor, when you work at Sundt, you're not just hiring on at a company, you're joining a culture. Because everyone at Sundt is part owner, you'll join a team of people who are deeply invested in their work. From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.  At Sundt we focus on building long-term prosperity for our clients, communities, and employee-owners. We offer competitive pay, industry-leading benefits including a 401k and employee stock ownership plan, incentive programs for craft and administrative employees as well as training that focuses on your personal and professional growth. We're driven by skill, grit and purpose. Join us as we strive to be the most skilled builder in America.

Job Summary

Performs engineering design evaluations and works to complete projects within budget and scheduling restraints. Reviews industry policies and procedures to ensure data accuracy, security, and regulatory compliance. Reviews reports of production, malfunction, and maintenance to determine or address problems. Provides technical support for the engineering process.

Key Responsibilities

1.    Designs, implements, and communicates, an operational plan for completing the project.
2.    Develops project schedules, budgets, and forecasts.
3.    Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work.
4.    Identifies, develops, and gathers resources necessary to complete the project.
5.    Monitors progress and performance against the project plan.
6.    Prepares engineering designs and work specifications.
7.    Selects materials, equipment, project staff, and external contractors.
8.    Takes action to resolve operational problems and minimize delays.

Minimum Job Requirements

1.    Requires a bachelor's degree.
2.    Typically reports to a supervisor or manager.
3.    Typically requires 2 to 4 years of related experience.

Note: Job Description is subject to change at any time and may include other duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

1.    May stoop, kneel, or bend, on an occasional basis
2.    Must be able to comply with all safety standards and procedures
3.    Required to use hands to grasp, lift, handle, carry or feel objects on a frequent basis
4.    Will interact with people and technology frequently during a shift/work day
5.    Will lift, push or pull objects up to 50Ibs on an occasional basis.
6.    Will sit, stand or walk short distances for up to the entire duration of a shift/work day.
7.    Will use telephone, computer system, email, and other electronic devices on a frequent basis to communicate with internal and external customers or vendors

Safety Level

Non-Safety Sensitive

Note: Jobs with the Safety-Sensitive designation are those that include tasks or duties that the employer reasonably believes could affect the safety and health of the employee performing the task or others such as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing/maintaining the operation of any vehicle/equipment, the handling/disposal/transport of hazardous materials, or the handling/treatment/disposal of potentially flammable/combustible materials.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Sundt is committed to the equal treatment of all employees, and/or applicants for employment, and prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, color, age, disability, national origin, covered veteran status, genetic information; or any other classification protected by applicable Federal, state, or local laws.

Benefit list:
Market Competitive Salary (paid weekly)
Bonus Eligibility based on company, group, and individual performance
Employee Stock Ownership Plan & 401K
Industry Leading Health Coverage Starting Your First Day
Flexible Time Off (FTO)
Medical, Health Savings, and Wellness credits
Flexible Spending Accounts
Employee Assistance Program
Workplace Wellness Programs
Mental Health Program
Life and Disability Insurance
Employee-Owner Perks
Educational Assistance
Sundt Foundation - Charitable Employee-Owner's program

#LI-IF1

As a 100% employee-owned contractor, when you work at Sundt, you're not just hiring on at a company, you're joining a culture. Because everyone at Sundt is part owner, you'll join a team of people who are deeply invested in their work. From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

At Sundt we focus on building long-term prosperity for our clients, communities and employee-owners. We offer competitive pay, industry-leading benefits including a 401k and employee stock ownership plan, incentive programs for craft and administrative employees as well as training that focuses on your personal and professional growth. We're driven by skill, grit and purpose. Join us as we strive to be the most skilled builder in America.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Sundt is committed to the equal treatment of all employees, and/or applicants for employment, and prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, color, age, disability, national origin, covered veteran status, genetic information; or any other classification protected by applicable Federal, state, or local laws.

Benefit list:
  • Market Competitive Salary (paid weekly)
  • Bonus Eligibility based on company, group, and individual performance
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan & 401K
  • Industry Leading Health Coverage Starting Your First Day
  • Flexible Time Off (FTO)
  • Medical, Health Savings, and Wellness credits
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Workplace Wellness Programs
  • Mental Health Program
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Employee-Owner Perks
  • Educational Assistance
  • Sundt Foundation - Charitable Employee-Owner's program