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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Saint Paul, MN

Nuclear Engineer

Osseo, MN

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Minneapolis, MN

$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

Oakdale, MN

$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

Lexington, MN

$96K - $115K/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

Lindstrom, MN

$94K - $113K/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

Independence, MN

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Rogers, MN

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Columbus, MN

$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

Lauderdale, MN

$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

Lakeland, MN

$101K - $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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Newport, MN

$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

Prescott, WI

$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

Hilltop, MN

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Oakdale, MN

$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

Brooklyn Park, MN

$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

Hampton, MN

$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

Dayton, MN

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Plymouth, MN

$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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hopkins, MN

$100K - $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 ...

Showing results 21-40

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.
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.

Operating Maintenance Engineer II

City of Minneapolis

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$41.88/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


City Of Minneapolis rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

308th of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Description ***This job posting will be used for on-going hiring without closing for applications. Applications will be reviewed in groups on an on-going basis as described in the Eligible List Statement below.*** The Minneapolis Convention Center (MCC) is a relationship building. Each individual at MCC is a hospitality hero who fulfills our mission by providing service and fostering relationships

We make a positive impact on our internal and external guests by collaborating and delivering excellence in our service and facility. We host more than 300 events annually and contribute to a vibrant downtown community by providing economic impact through visitor spending at hotels, restaurants, arts & attractions, and retail establishments. This position properly maintains and ensures the safe and efficient building operation of the Minneapolis Convention Center and makes certain that our guests are comfortable and have an exceptional experience.

The Minneapolis Convention Center is the City's largest building asset covering approximately 1.5 million square feet. SHIFT: Day Shift SALARY: Anticipated starting salary: $41.878/hour See Differential below on last page of posting The City of Minneapolis does not sponsor applicants for work visas. Job Duties and Responsibilities Monitor all operations daily, including HVAC, electrical, steam, and chill water usage

Troubleshoot and repair HVAC systems and equipment including Honeywell controllers & EBI Building Management System. Install & maintain Honeywell CP-O engineered software, check control systems, and fine tune operation. Provide troubleshooting and maintenance on low-voltage building automation systems throughout the facility.

Perform routine software backups as required for disaster recovery. Perform preventative maintenance scheduled daily/weekly/monthly/quarterly/yearly. Operate, maintain and repair the 109 air handling units, 69 fan coil units, numerous exhaust and transfer fans.

This includes repair and replacement of coils, heating and cooling valves, actuators, dampers, ball and gates valves. Operate, maintain and repair the High-Pressure steam system which is utilized to provide year around building heat and supply steam to the commercial kitchen. Provide essential support to maintain optimal HVAC system functions.

Provide operational diagnostics on the Building Automation System to ensure proper temperature in the occupied spaces which consist of the exhibition halls, auditorium, ballrooms, meeting rooms, concourses, and office spaces. Ensure proper operation of plumbing systems throughout the building including the 350+ touchless toilets, urinals, flushometers, soap dispensers, faucets. Other plumbing duties include upkeep and repair of waste lines, dishwashers, and automatic drinking fountains/bottle filler stations, cartridge filter replacement on water supply lines.

Emergency generator and fire sprinkler system pumps - perform system safety checks and load testing as required. Maintenance of dry-fire sprinkler system includes dry valves, air compressors, tamper valve/flow switches and fuel tanks. Knowledge of fire extinguisher types - replace discharged extinguishers with correct replacements.

Provide assistance with annual testing and inspection of hundreds of extinguishers throughout the facility with contractor. Facilities maintenance - maintain and adjust operable wall panels in the meeting rooms. Maintain and repair overhead rollup doors throughout building.

Perform maintenance and repair on large fleet of battery-powered lifts, forklifts, Cushman tugs and scissors/articulating lifts. Refrigeration - Perform maintenance and repairs on various refrigeration units, including ice machines, walk-in coolers/freezers, and drinking fountains. WORKING CONDITIONS: Must have the ability to walk or stand for long periods of time.

Exposure to physical tasks and hazardous conditions such as high voltage equipment, chemicals, fumes, dust, confined spaces, extreme hot and cold temperature conditions, heights including rooftops and catwalks, poor lighting conditions, burn hazards and loud noises. Required Qualifications EDUCATION: 3 years of education, specialized training, trades apprenticeship or equivalent in Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning (HVAC) Control Systems. EXPERIENCE: 3-5 years of progressive related experience; some of which must be in Honeywell EBI Enterprise Building Integrator or similar competitor LICENSES/CERTIFICATES: N/A EQUIVALENCY An equivalent combination of education and experience closely related to the duties of the position MAY be considered.

Selection Process The selection process will consist of one or more of the following steps: a rating of relevant education and experience and/or an oral examination (100%). It is important that your application show all the relevant education and experience you possess. This information will be used to determine which candidates will proceed in the selection process.

A submitted application is also used to verify the answers to any supplemental questions. Only those candidates who attain a passing score (70%) on each step in the selection process will be placed on the eligible list. The City of Minneapolis Human Resources Department reserves the right to limit the number in any phase of the selection process.

Background Check The City has determined that a criminal background check and/or qualifications check may be necessary for certain positions with this job title. Applicants may be required to sign an informed consent form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought. Applicants who do not sign the informed consent form will not be further considered for the position.

Drug and Alcohol Testing All job applicants must pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test once a conditional offer of employment has been made. Applicants will be required to sign a notification and consent form prior to undergoing drug and alcohol testing. Applicants who do not consent to undergo drug and alcohol testing will not be required to do so and the City will withdraw the conditional job offer, resulting in the job applicant no longer being considered for the position.

Medical Exam After a conditional job offer, candidates will be required to pass a medical examination which includes a physical screening. Union Representation This position is represented by a collective bargaining agreement between the City of Minneapolis and the CSE - Stationary Engineers (IUOE #70) . For more information on the terms and conditions of this agreement please visit our website.

Eligible List Statement The names of applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and successfully pass the screening process will be placed on the eligible list for employment consideration. This list will be certified to the hiring manager, who may use it to fill vacancies within the same job title. This is a continuous posting and will remain open until staffing needs are met.

Interview Selection The hiring authority reserves the right to determine the maximum number of candidates to interview from the established eligible list. If the hiring authority decides to interview other than by exam score order, they may select additional people to interview based on a candidate's education or experience related to the field, work history, or skills uniquely related to the operational needs of the position. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Demonstrated knowledge of computerized building automation systems.

Knowledge of computer operating systems and networking. Familiarity with DDC control systems. Considerable knowledge of HVAC systems (with appropriate troubleshooting skills).

Demonstrated ability to read and understand blueprints and schematics. Working knowledge of electrical systems. Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to work both independently and with a diverse group of people.

Demonstrated exceptional customer relation skills. Physically able to perform the duties of the position which include the ability to lift heavy items weighing up to 70 pounds and be able to maneuver items weighing more than 100 pounds. Ability to walk or stand for long periods of time DIFFERENTIALS: Monday Through Friday Shift Differential Provided that an additional $2.01 per hour shall be paid, for all hours worked to employees whose regularly scheduled shift begins between the hours of 11:00 am and 6:00 am

Saturday and Sunday Shift Differential Provided that a weekend shift differential shall be paid, to all employees whose regularly scheduled shifts begin within these hours: 1st Shift: For all hours worked on shifts that begin between 6:00 a.m. and 1:59 p.m., employees shall be paid a premium of $1.69 per hour. 2nd Shift: For all hours worked on shifts that begin between 2:00 p.m

and 8:59 p.m., employees shall be paid a premium of $2.26 per hour. 3rd Shift: For all hours worked on shifts that begin between 9:00 p.m. and 5:59 a.m., employees shall be paid a premium of $2.57 per hour

*The Weekend Shift Differential is in addition to any weekday shift differential that may be paid to said employees. As the largest and most vibrant city in the state, Minneapolis depends on purposeful, dedicated and innovative employees. Minneapolis has a large variety of careers for people of all experiences and backgrounds who come together for a singular purpose-serving the residents, businesses and visitors of Minneapolis.

The City of Minneapolis is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.


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