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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Racine, WI

Wachter, Inc.

Electrical Foreman

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Lead "heavy commercial" projects on industrial sites, managing teams of 4+ Electricians/Apprentices ... keep businesses operating efficiently. Our team of dedicated electricians, engineers, and ...

Hooper Deforest

Project Manager - HVAC

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

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

Mortenson

Laborer Journeyman

Kenosha, WI

$16 - $19.50/hr

Completion of two-year apprenticeship program * Experience in construction preferred * Ability to ... ABOUT MORTENSON As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction ...

Hooper

Project Manager - HVAC

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

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

M. A. Mortenson Company

Laborer Journeyman

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Completion of two-year apprenticeship program * Experience in construction preferred * Ability to ... ABOUT MORTENSON As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction ...

Hooper

Project Manager - Plumbing

Wauwatosa, WI · On-site

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

CBRE

Electrician

Pleasant Prairie, WI · On-site

$24.25 - $33.25/hr

This job is part of the Engineering and Technical Services job function. They are responsible for ... Assure that equipment is being maintained and operating in a safe manner. * Review historical ...

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All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Racine, WI

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Racine, WI salary details

$11

$20

$34

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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:

Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Racine, WI as of August 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.

Project Manager - Process Piping

Hooper

Wauwatosa, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Since 1913, Hooper has grown to become a well-respected electric power and mechanical contractor with headquarters in Wisconsin and regional offices in the states of Colorado, Florida, and Ohio. Hooper provides a wide range of services to support commercial and residential clients. Hooper provides competitive compensation and many supportive benefits including Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance, Matching 401(k) plan, Paid Time Off (PTO), 9 paid holidays, Identity Theft Protection, Life Insurance, as well as Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage.
General Summary:
The Project Manager is responsible for acquiring new business opportunities. They'll help plan, organize, direct and coordinate the preparations and executions of projects while meeting cost, quality, equipment utilization and safety objectives.
Principal Accountabilities:
  • Actively pursues and acquires new business through developing and maintaining strong client relationships, presentations to prospective clients, sound understanding of proposed project plans, specifications and other contractual documents.
  • Prepares project estimates, budgets, schedules, and assist in project contract negotiations. Monitors adherence to all of above through attendance at job site meetings, project progress reports, performance evaluations, safety meetings and working closely with field crew supervision.
  • Works closely with architect and engineers to resolve design related construction issues including timely processing and approvals of project shop drawings.
  • Keeps customer fully informed of project progress and any significant issues and their effect on design or costs. Negotiates fee changes. Releases completed project to the full satisfaction of the customer.
  • Plans, organizes, directs and coordinates manpower, equipment, tools and supply needs within the department to achieve project objectives.
  • Purchases equipment and standardized materials. Monitors and assess maintenance and safeguarding of equipment, tools and supplies. Responsible for proper repair of equipment upon completion of job.
  • Manages administrative aspects of contracts (change orders, rental equipment, timesheet coding, billing and expenses, collections, etc.) by working closely with administrative staff and accounting and communicating all financial details to appropriate parties.
  • Maintains sound union relationships with field employees and local business managers. Participates in joint labor management committees and apprenticeship subcommittees. Develop thorough understanding of labor agreements.
  • Completes 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, including UW athletic activities, Madison performing arts and other customer area community related functions.
  • Attendance at annual divisional and departmental meetings and social functions is required.
  • Performs additional assignments as requested by management. May serve on corporate and special division committees as required.

Requirements
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • Minimum two years technical education in engineering field, construction management coursework or completion of apprenticeship in a respective discipline. Three plus years of prior experience with related construction industry projects.
  • Analytical and problem solving, strong interpersonal, and verbal and written communication skills.

Description of physical working environment:
  • Works in normal office environment and makes frequent client visits requiring driving personal vehicle. When in the office, regularly works from a sitting position with a computer. Repetitive typing and computer use required. Regular bending, twisting, and light lifting is common.
  • Works on field construction site in all kinds of weather to survey site conditions and resolve coordination issues with the trades.
  • Ability to climb up and down ladders and steps on site is required.

Hooper is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Hooper considers candidates regardless of age, color, creed, disability, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and any other status protected by applicable local, state, or federal law.

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