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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Racine, WI

Manual Machinist

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$26 - $36.09/hr

Technical machining education or apprenticeship training is a plus Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities ... Experience operating manual lathes, boring mills, or similar machining equipment preferred

Tool & Die Maker

Racine, WI · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

In this role, you will collaborate with Engineering to design and build prototypes, tooling ... Completion of a Tool and Die apprenticeship program or equivalent experience required. Benefits ...

Tool & Die Maker

Racine, WI · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

In this role, you will collaborate with Engineering to design and build prototypes, tooling ... Experience operating cranes, hoists and table lifts to manipulate heavy tooling. * Strong attention ...

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

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

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Racine, WI salary details

$11

$20

$34

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Racine, WI is $20.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $22.55 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Racine, WI?

The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Racine, WI are:

What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Racine, WI as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,951 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Engineering Technician - Plastics (2nd Shift)

Mukwonago, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

INNOVATE WITHOUT BOUNDARIES! At Milwaukee Tool, our People and our Culture drive everything we do. Our teams bring a passion to never settle and continuously improve, delivering high-quality products that positively impact our users. This mindset is central to how we approach manufacturing excellence every day.

This role supports injection molding operations through hands-on technical expertise, process ownership, and close collaboration with production, automation, and maintenance teams. The individual in this position is responsible for setting up and optimizing molds, troubleshooting process and equipment issues, and ensuring stable production through effective monitoring of machine parameters, cycle times, and part quality.

By working directly with operators and technicians, creating clear process documentation, and leading continuous improvement efforts, this role helps ensure safe, efficient, and reliable manufacturing performance in a fast-paced environment.

How YOU will serve:

  • Support process stability and robustness by applying scientific molding principles, including Fill/Pack/Hold separation, and thermal control fundamentals.
  • Participate in mold setups, startups, and changeovers to support production, validate process intent, and assist setup technicians during complex or abnormal conditions.
  • Troubleshoot, diagnose, and correct processrelated issues using structured rootcause methods rather than symptombased adjustments.
  • Document, track, and report mold, process, automation, and equipmentrelated issues, ensuring information is accurate and actionable.
  • Communicate and appropriately escalate production issues to ensure quality, safety, and on time delivery commitments are maintained.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop setup technicians, providing technical guidance and assisting with work direction during startups, changeovers, and abnormal conditions.
  • Maintain, and improve process documentation, including setup sheets, work instructions, operational guidelines, and troubleshooting aids.
  • Effectively prioritize and manage multiple concurrent technical activities in a fastpaced production environment.
  • Adhere to timelines while maintaining strong attention to process discipline, safety, and quality requirements.
  • Perform other duties as assigned that support manufacturing and engineering objectives.

The TOOLS you'll bring with you:

  • Associate's Degree (preferred) in Industrial Automation, Mechatronics, Plastics Technology, or completion of an Injection Molding Apprenticeship or equivalent technical training.
  • Minimum of 5 years of handson experience setting up, troubleshooting, and supporting injection molding production processes.
  • Solid understanding of mechatronic systems, including hydraulics, pneumatics, sensors, and electrical components as applied to manufacturing equipment.
  • RJG Master Molder I or II certification preferred or demonstrated equivalent knowledge of scientific molding principles.

Our Perks and Benefits:

  • Legendary Company Culture
  • Robust health, dental and vision insurance plans
  • Generous 401 (K) savings plan
  • Education assistance
  • On-site food and coffee service
  • And many more, check out our benefits siteHERE.

Milwaukee Tool is an equal opportunity employer.