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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Piscataway, NJ

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Staten Island, NY ยท On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

... operator reactor control, utilities man, machinist mate, or engineman with the U.S. Navy; Or 5. ... Or 6. Completion of a New York State Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program for ...

... Operating Engineer; or 2. Three years of experience as described in "1" above, and sixty (60 ... of an apprentice program, a minimum of three years in length, in the boiler trade or boiler ...

... Operating Engineer; or 2. Three years of experience as described in "1" above, and sixty (60 ... of an apprentice program, a minimum of three years in length, in the boiler trade or boiler ...

Boiler Inspector

Manhattan, NY ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... Operating Engineer; or 2. Three years of experience as described in "1" above, and sixty (60 ... of an apprentice program, a minimum of three years in length, in the boiler trade or boiler ...

Learns PLCs and works with Automation Engineers in a laboratory environment.Learnsto perform work ... operators, and operate equipment to detect equipment problems, analyze malfunctions, and verify ...

New

Train customer operators and maintenance staff on safe operation and routine upkeep * Act as Silana ... qualification / apprenticeship (e.g. mechatronics technician) with strong hands-on experience

Train customer operators and maintenance staff on safe operation and routine upkeep * Act as Silana ... qualification / apprenticeship (e.g. mechatronics technician) with strong hands-on experience

Train customer operators and maintenance staff on safe operation and routine upkeep * Act as Silana ... qualification / apprenticeship (e.g. mechatronics technician) with strong hands-on experience

At its core is Aladdin-a unified operating system for investment managers spanning public and ... apprenticeship that enriches the experience of our employees, while supporting flexibility for all.

Nuclear Engineer

Netcong, NJ

$98K - $117K/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

Mountainside, NJ

$99K - $119K/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

Pluckemin, NJ

$100K - $120K/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

Milltown, NJ

$102K - $123K/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

Dover, NJ

$100K - $120K/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

Morristown, NJ

$101K - $121K/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

Kingston, NJ

$105K - $126K/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

Matawan, NJ

$101K - $121K/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

Old Bridge, NJ

$100K - $120K/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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Piscataway, NJ 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 Piscataway, NJ is $22.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $24.47 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 Piscataway, NJ are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Piscataway, NJ with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

StateJobsNY

Staten Island, NY โ€ข On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 hours ago


Job description

Duties Description POSITION DESCRIPTION:
As a Plant Utilities Engineer 1, on an assigned shift, you would operate, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, test and calibrate mechanical and electrical equipment providing heat, hot water, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical distribution, fire alarm and sprinkler systems in a safe and efficient manner in campus' or residential settings.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES not limited to:
โ€ข Operate steam and hot water boilers including lighting off, firing, cleaning and shutting down systems
โ€ข Operate central and auxiliary computers which monitor, test, control and operate boilers, auxiliary equipment and HVAC systems.
โ€ข Service and maintain residential heating and air conditioning equipment.
โ€ข Conduct boiler, HVAC, and water systems testing, analyzing results and adding chemicals to maintain proper residuals in boiler and piping systems.
โ€ข Operate large central absorption, centrifugal, screw driven and hermetic chiller systems and other refrigeration equipment. Duties include starting, regulating and troubleshooting to maintain proper temperature.
โ€ข Will be required to perform operations and maintenance within an asbestos environment and/or supervise any asbestos removal project being carried out by other employees or private contractors.
โ€ข Handle various types of hazardous materials, such as refrigerants, Freon, gas, fuel oil, solvents, antifreeze, biocides, nitrates, ethanol, acids, caustic soda, regulated waste and refuse.
โ€ข Respond to incidents having potential environmental impact and/or safety concerns, such as chemical spills, oil spills and blowouts and may be called upon to implement evacuation plans in emergency situations
โ€ข Work in confined space situations using personal protective equipment and supervise others working in confined space using personal protective equipment
โ€ข May requires daily travel within the district, as well as some travel within NY State to assist other districts with special projects
โ€ข Candidate will be trained in the operation and maintenance procedures as related to Asbestos Containing Materials.
PREFFERED QUALIFICATIONS:
โ€ข Working knowledge of the methods, materials, tools and equipment used in the trade or trades to which assigned
โ€ข Working knowledge of the methods, materials and tools used in making mechanical and routine electrical repairs to heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, refrigeration, plumbing, pneumatic control systems and direct digital and other microprocessor controlled systems.
โ€ข Working knowledge of safety standards and procedures
โ€ข Ability to understand and carry out written and oral instructions.
โ€ข Will be required to train and supervise others.
โ€ข Will be required to plan and lay out work, develop time and material lists for projects assigned
โ€ข Will be required to read and interpret plans, codes, diagrams, architectural blueprints and specifications.
โ€ข Basic computer skills preferred
โ€ข Valid NYS driver's License
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nys-office-for-people-with-developmental-disabilities/posts/?feedView=all
#LI-DA1
Minimum Qualifications Either 1. Graduate of heating, HVAC, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration apprenticeship program from the U.S. Air Force;
Or 2. Must have been an enlisted machinery technician (MK) with the U.S. Coast Guard OR possession of a certificate as a Marine Engineer issued by the U.S. Coast Guard;
Or 3. Must have been an enlisted power generation equipment repairer with the U.S. Army;
Or 4. Must have been an enlisted gas turbine systems technician, submarine nuclear propulsion plant operator reactor control, utilities man, machinist mate, or engineman with the U.S. Navy;
Or 5. Must have a Merchant Mariner's Document (MMD) and have been a qualified member of the engine department (QMED) as an oiler, fireman/water tender, refrigerating engineer or engineman with the U.S. Merchant Marine;
Or 6. Completion of a New York State Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program for stationary engineers, plant maintenance (plumber/steamfitter), HVAC Mechanic or plant maintenance (refrigeration/AC) (See Note #1);
Or 7. Possession of a High-Pressure Boiler Operating Engineer License or Stationary Engineer License;
Or 8. A bachelor's degree in Facilities Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Marine Engineering;
Or 9. Four years of full-time hands on experience in the maintenance and operation of commercial, industrial, institutional facility, computer applications of digital energy platforms and building analytics and/or performing diagnosis, repair of HVAC systems or boilers or auxiliary equipment;
Or 10. Four years of full-time hands on experience in a residential setting performing diagnosis, operation, maintenance repair of HVAC systems or boilers or auxiliary equipment;
Or 11. An associate's degree in HVAC AND two years of qualifying experience as described in EITHER qualification #9 or #10 above;
Or 12. Completion of an HVAC certificate or diploma from a BOCES program (900 hours) OR completion of an approved certificate in HVAC, electrical, refrigeration, boiler operations and maintenance, or plumbing from an accredited technical school or technology college (See Note #2) AND two years of qualifying experience as described in EITHER qualification #9 or #10 above.
** Certification programs must be accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) or recognized by the New York State Education Department Bureau of Proprietary School Supervision (BPSS). Information on ACCSC accredited programs can be found here: http://www.accsc.org/. Information on BPSS recognized proprietary schools can be found here: http://www.acces.nysed.gov/bpss/welcome-career-training-proprietary-schools.
Transfer:
Candidates must have one year of permanent competitive or 55-b/c status in the posted title and be eligible for lateral transfer; OR be eligible to transfer via Section 70.1, 70.4, or 52.6 of Civil Service Law. The transfer cannot be a second consecutive transfer resulting in an advancement of more than two salary grades.
To determine if your current Civil Service title is eligible for transfer to this title, visit the Career Mobility GOT-IT website: https://careermobilityoffice.cs.ny.gov/cmo/gotit/index.cfm.
Additional Comments This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS). HELPS Program titles may be filled via a non-competitive appointment. This means that you do not need to take an exam to qualify, but you do need to meet the minimum qualifications of the title.
At a future date (within one year of permanent appointment), employees hired under NY HELPS are expected to have their permanent non-competitive employment status converted to permanent competitive status. You will not have to take an exam to gain permanent competitive status.
โ€ข Please note that starting salary for this title reflects the downstate adjustment. Posted Hiring Salary includes the sum of the statutory hiring rate for CSEA Grade 14 ($56,506) and Downstate Adjustment ($4,000). Downstate Adjustment is added to the job rate ($68,630).
โ€ข If you are currently a New York State employee serving in a permanent competitive qualifying title and eligible for a transfer via Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law, you may be appointed to this title as a permanent competitive employee.
โ€ข For CSEA positions: Local Bidding Agreements will be honored.
โ€ข Preference will be given to OPWDD employees impacted by closures. If you are being impacted by closure, please indicate this on your resume.
โ€ข All OPWDD employees must be eligible and maintain eligibility for full and unconditional participation in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Continued employment will depend on maintaining eligibility.
โ€ข If you are employed by state government you may be able to receive loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). The PSLF Program forgives the remaining balance on Direct Loans after 120 qualifying monthly payments have been made under a qualifying repayment plan while working full-time for a qualifying employer. For more information on PSLF, please visit www.studentAid.gov/publicservice.
โ€ข Employees on long term leave can bid on positions but must be able to report to work within fourteen (14) days and be able to perform the essential functions of their positions with or without reasonable accommodation (RA).
โ€ข If an employee or job applicant believes that they need a reasonable accommodation, they should contact the Reasonable Accommodation Unit at (518) 486-7222 or email accommodationrequests@opwdd.ny.gov to obtain information and RA forms
โ€ข Savings programs such as the U.S. Savings Bond and the College Savings Plan.
โ€ข Voluntary pre-tax savings programs such as Health Care Spending Account and the Dependent Care Advantage Account offer employees options to pay for uncovered health care expenses or dependent care expenses.
โ€ข Access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) an assessment and referral service that connects employees with local service providers and support services to address their personal needs.
โ€ข Life insurance and Disability insurance.
โ€ข The New York State Deferred Compensation Plan is a voluntary retirement plan that offers employees the option to invest a part of their salaries for retirement on a tax-deferred basis.
โ€ข Paid Holidays and Leave:
ยฐ Thirteen (13) paid holidays each year.
ยฐ Thirteen (13) days of paid vacation leave initially.
ยฐ Five (5) days paid personal leave each year.
ยฐ Thirteen (13) days of paid sick leave each year (PEF/CSEA), which may carry over from year to year.
ยฐ Up to three (3) days professional leave each year to participate in professional development events.
โ€ข Health Care Coverage:
Employees and their eligible dependents can choose from a variety of affordable health insurance programs. Employees are provided family dental and vision plans at no extra cost.
โ€ข Paid Parental Leave:
Paid Parental Leave allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of paid leave at full pay for each qualifying event. A qualifying event is defined as the birth of a child or placement of a child for adoption or foster care.
โ€ข Retirement Program:
Participate in The NYS Employees' Retirement System (ERS), which is recognized as one of the best-managed and best-funded public retirement systems in the nation.
โ€ข Professional Development and Education and Training:
NYS offers training programs and tuition assistance to eligible employees to maintain and increase their professional skills and prepare them for promotional opportunities. For more information, please visit https://oer.ny.gov/training-and-professional-development.
โ€ข Additionally, the Public Service Workshops Program (PSWP) offers certain professional training opportunities for PEF represented and M/C designated employees that may grant continuing education credits towards maintaining professional licensure. For more information, please visit https://oer.ny.gov/public-service-workshops-program-pswp.
โ€ข OPWDD is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion. We believe that we are most effective in managing and improving our service system with a diverse team of employees. With such a large workforce, we rely on the collective individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, self-expression, ideas and talent that our employees bring to their work. This speaks to our culture and is a key part of our successes. As we continuously recruit people for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that applicants bring in terms of their education, culture, ethnicity, race, sex, gender identity and expression, nation of origin, age, languages spoken, veteran's status, color, religion, disability, sexual orientation and beliefs.
All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.
Name Staten Island DDSO Human Resources
Telephone 7189835433
Fax 7189835216
Email Address StatenIslandCareers@opwdd.ny.gov
Address
Street 1150 Forest Hill Road
Building 46
City Staten Island
State NY
Zip Code 10314
Notes on Applying Please email your resume to StatenIsland.Careers@opwdd.ny.gov and reference vacancy ID in your email.