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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Saint Paul, MN

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE • 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Minneapolis, MN

$72K - $98K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE • 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE • 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$69K - $94K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

JLL

Automation Engineering Apprentice

Shakopee, MN · On-site

... Engineer. Apprentices are paired with mentors to carry out their assigned work at various ... Operating safely around energized equipment and moving conveyors. At JLL, we work together to ...

JLL

Mechatronics and Robotics Apprentice

Woodbury, MN · On-site

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 ...

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All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Saint Paul, MN

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Saint Paul, MN salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Saint Paul, MN is $22.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $24.33 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.
Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Saint Paul, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,327 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Building Operating Engineer

Synerfac Technical Staffing

Minneapolis, MN

$30 - $36/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Operating Engineer
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Shift: Must be flexible to work any of these 3 shifts: 6am-2:30pm, 7am-3:30pm, and 10am-6:30pm
Responsibilities:
- Operate various types of heavy machinery and industrial equipment according to operational guidelines
- Monitor equipment during operation to ensure efficiency and safety, adjust controls as necessary
Maintenance and Repairs:
- Perform routine maintenance on machinery to keep it in good working order
- Diagnose equipment malfunctions and execute repairs, either independently or in collaboration with maintenance technicians
Safety Compliance:
- Follow all safety protocols and procedures to prevent accidents and injuries
- Participate in safety training and remain current with the latest safety legislation and best practices
Record Keeping:
- Maintain accurate records of operations, maintenance, and repairs conducted on all machinery
- Document and report any significant machinery performance issues to management
Troubleshooting:
- Respond to and troubleshoot operational issues in a timely manner to minimize downtime
- Identify solutions to resolve mechanical or operational problems
Communication and Collaboration:
- Communicate effectively with other team members, including sharing information regarding equipment conditions and maintenance needs
- Collaborate with other departments, such as maintenance or production, to ensure seamless operations
TOP REQUIRED SKILLS:
- Troubleshooting HVAC & electrical, Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel), day-to-day preventative maintenance, work orders, and automation.
** Preferred 608 or 609 license
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Solid understanding of the operating principles of heavy machinery and industrial equipment
- Proficiency in the use of hand tools, power tools, and electronic diagnostic equipment
- Ability to read and interpret technical manuals and schematics
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
- Good physical condition and strength, with the ability to work in varied environmental conditions
Education and Experience:
- High school diploma or equivalent post-secondary training or apprenticeship in operations engineering or related field preferred
- Experience as an Operating Engineer or in a similar role handling heavy equipment in an industrial or construction setting
*** Qualified candidates, please contact Sarah Bartel ***
Email resume to: sbartel@synerfac.com
Office #: 302-276-7018
#ZRNC
Synerfac Technical Staffing logo

About Synerfac Technical Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1987, Synerfac has served three groups, Our Clients, Our Candidates and Our Staff. We treat all three with equal importance because we recognize the synergy of success when one group succeeds, We all succeed. Synerfac is in the business of providing opportunities and adding value. We strive to create extraordinary experiences. For our clients we provide staffing services that enable them to focus on their core competencies which will add value to their businesses. For our employees we provide permanent and temporary assignments that complement their job skills and experience while providing professional and financial rewards. For our staff –we provide careers that are balanced, uplifting and carry the highest rewards by continually improving our business process. Our goal is to enhance the lives and enterprises of all those we touch to make them better off for having known us.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cherry Hill, NJ, US

Social media

Twitter

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