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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

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Catia / Mastercam CNC Programmer (Aerospace and Defense)

Walnut, CA · On-site

$40 - $60/hr

Willing to work with operators on shop floor to troubleshoot and improve machining process ... From apprenticeship to leadership, our people are proud of the important work we do.

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Crestline, CA · On-site

$89K - $107K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Winchester, CA · On-site

$104K - $124K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Nuevo, CA · On-site

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Glendora, CA · On-site

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$103K - $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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Jurupa Valley, CA · On-site

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Homeland, CA · On-site

$103K - $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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Romoland, CA · On-site

$102K - $122K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Montclair, CA · On-site

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Lakeview, CA · On-site

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Muscoy, CA · On-site

$111K - $133K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$104K - $125K/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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Walnut, CA · On-site

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Yorba Linda, CA · On-site

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Placentia, CA · On-site

$103K - $124K/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 ...

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All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Riverside, CA

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Riverside, CA is $22.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.10 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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:
Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Riverside, CA 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 $47,788 per year, or $23 per hour.
Laser Operator Apprentice

Laser Operator Apprentice

Industrial Metal Supply

Riverside, CA • On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Industrial Metal Supply rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

275th of 399 rated retail wholesalers

Job description

Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:00 am to 4:00 pm
As part of our successful IMS team you will:
  • Enjoy job stability and widespread career development opportunities
  • Be part of a company that experiences growth, innovation and expansion
  • Experience a company culture of teamwork, flexibility and family
  • Hold an important role in an ISO 9001 Certified company
  • Receive a robust compensation package
Industrial Metal Supply cares about the day-to-day experience of every single employee. When you join the IMS team you will be accepting more than a job – you’ll be starting your path to leadership. Employees make up the 75-year-old foundation built on offering exceptional customer service, in fact, IMS sets the standard for service in its industry.
Responsible for producing high quality cut parts while operating Flat or Tube laser (including Fiber and C02 lasers) and plasma cutting machines or technologies. Incumbent will be responsible for moving materials within the warehouse during different stages of the order fulfillment process. Such as, but not limited to, receiving, stocking, pulling to process, surface finishing, grinding, or packaging, and loading parts onto transport. Additional responsibilities include preparing and completing work orders, job programming, modifying cut nests for material efficiency, ensuring that all documentation is filled out clearly and in accordance with company ISO standards. Maintain good housekeeping and perform all duties in a safe and mindful manner. Incumbent will provide excellent, professional, and responsive customer service (for both internal and external customers), promptly and courteously assisting production team in the efficient processing of all orders. Performs related work as required with a strong focus on quality and maintains a professional appearance.
PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES - The incumbent will employ all of their warehousing and machine operating experience to expertly perform and accomplish the following objectives within the prescribed timelines.
  • Within the first 90 days the associate to be well versed in IMS processes. On an ongoing basis, the incumbent will maintain an excellent attendance and on-time record with no tardies and no absences barring extenuating circumstances.
  • Safety- On an ongoing basis, the incumbent will complete all IMS safety related training and updates and demonstrate a zero tolerance for Safety related issues. Within the first 90 days provide 3 suggestions in writing, to improve safety processes or working procedures.
  • Safety conduct – The incumbent will adhere to IMS safe practices while using their cell phone in company designated areas only, to ensure there are no safety incidents or concerns on an ongoing basis.
  • Within the first 30 days, the associate must become proficient at performing machine startup procedures, manual plasma and laser cutting head setups, operate, load, and unload finished parts from machine. This competency will be developed within specified IMS training program verified by supervisor after completion of training.
  • Within the first 30 days, the incumbent will competently and thoroughly inspect, measure, document and test completed metal work pieces to verify conformance per customer drawing or requirements.
  • Within the first 30 days, the incumbent will become familiar with and competent in obtaining and documenting materials in accordance with QSP 8.1 product identification, while maintaining zero errors/issues on an ongoing basis
  • Within the first 60 days the associate will develop and maintain Excel spreadsheet with tested and proven laser cut tables for cutting Aluminum, Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel, Copper, Brass, or Bronze for all thicknesses per machine capabilities chart.
  • Within the first 60 days the associate will develop, define, and implement a quality inspection process to guarantee accurate high-quality parts per customer specifications with RGA’s (return goods authorization) not to exceed 1.25 lines per 1000 lines produced.
  • Within the first 60 days, the incumbent will become familiar with and competent in standard packaging of delivered or shipped orders or transfers in accordance with QSI 9.1.6 Packaging Instructions, while maintaining zero packaging caused rejections or issues on an ongoing basis.
  • Within the first 90 days the associate be competent in correcting cutting problems or cutting quality issues by adjusting laser cut tables, gas pressures, cut speeds, or machine adjustments and maintain competency on an ongoing basis.
  • Within the first 90 days, the incumbent will become certified on any applicable industrial trucks.
  • Within 120 days the incumbent will develop and maintain Excel spread sheet to log, schedule, perform and maintain all required daily maintenance and service procedures for equipment operated that are recommended by manufacturer of equipment. Incumbents will be able to schedule or request all outside service needs or requirements without assistance, failure, or error.
  • Housekeeping – By the end of the shift, the incumbent will have all rems properly dispositioned; all trash cans emptied; all machines cleaned, the floor swept, and all required paperwork to process order completed and scanned up for processing on an ongoing basis while maintaining zero write-ups for housekeeping.
  • Accountability – On an ongoing basis, the associate will adhere to all meal and beak periods as scheduled without exceptions unless there are extenuating circumstances approved by supervisor prior to exception to schedule.
REQUIREMENTS/SPECIFICATIONS
• Advanced computer skills: proficient at word processing, and comfortable learning new software.
• Successful history of monitoring consumables and maintaining inventory levels.
• Safely operates all cutting equipment, such as, but not limited to flat laser, tube laser, plasma cutter, forklift, loading / unloading equipment and finishing equipment.
Demonstrate the ability to read blueprints, work orders, and production schedules to determine product or job instructions or specifications.
• Master the processing capability of all equipment, maximizing the safe operation
of all related equipment.
• Possesses the heart to serve and provides an exceptional customer experience and high-quality finished products.
IMS offers valuable employee benefits including:
  • Medical, Dental and Vision
  • 401k matched by the employer up to 3%
  • Vacation time (grows with your years at IMS)
  • Paid Sick time
  • Training and Advancement Opportunities
  • Educational Reimbursement
  • Competitive Pay with Unlimited Growth Potential
  • Regular Set Schedules

What Industrial Metal Supply employees say

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