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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in South Milwaukee, WI

Raya Workforce

Toolmaker

Menomonee Falls, WI · On-site

$25 - $50/hr

... engineering drawings, operating manual machining equipment, and working closely with engineering ... Associate degree, Tool & Die apprenticeship, or equivalent trade certification. * Experience in a ...

HiFyve

Manual Machinist

Milwaukee, WI

$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

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsApprentice Operating Engineer JobsApprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in South Milwaukee, WI

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See South Milwaukee, WI salary details

$11

$21

$35

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in South Milwaukee, WI is $21.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $22.93 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 cities near South Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

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

Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs near you

Toolmaker

Raya Workforce

Menomonee Falls, WI • On-site

$25 - $50/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Toolmaker 

Location: Menomonee Falls, WI
Job Type: Full-Time | Onsite | 1st Shift
Salary: $25–$50/hour (Based on Experience)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Toolmaker to join a precision manufacturing team specializing in the design, build, maintenance, and repair of plastic injection molds used in high-volume production. This is a hands-on role for someone who takes pride in craftsmanship, precision, and solving complex tooling challenges.

The ideal candidate will have experience building and repairing injection molds, interpreting engineering drawings, operating manual machining equipment, and working closely with engineering and production teams to ensure tooling performs at the highest level.

Key Responsibilities
  • Build, assemble, fit, and repair precision plastic injection molds.
  • Perform preventive maintenance and troubleshooting on molds to maximize performance and tool life.
  • Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, CAD models, and tooling specifications.
  • Operate manual machine shop equipment and precision measuring instruments.
  • Support mold trials, testing, and validation activities.
  • Diagnose tooling issues and implement effective repairs or modifications.
  • Maintain accurate documentation of mold repairs, maintenance, and engineering changes.
  • Ensure all tooling meets quality, safety, and dimensional requirements.
  • Collaborate with engineering and production teams to improve tooling performance and manufacturing efficiency.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 3 years of Toolmaker or Mold Maker experience.
  • Hands-on experience building, assembling, repairing, and maintaining plastic injection molds.
  • Strong blueprint and technical drawing interpretation skills.
  • Experience using precision measuring equipment such as micrometers, calipers, indicators, and gauges.
  • Solid understanding of mold fitting, assembly, troubleshooting, and repair techniques.
  • Ability to work independently while maintaining close attention to detail.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate degree, Tool & Die apprenticeship, or equivalent trade certification.
  • Experience in a precision mold shop environment.
  • Knowledge of injection molding processes.
  • Experience with CAD/CAM software.
  • CNC machining or CNC programming experience.
  • Familiarity with:
    • Hot Runner Systems
    • Multi-Shot Molds
    • Conformal Cooling
    • Collapsible Core Tooling
  • Experience supporting mold sampling, validation, and production startup.
Preferred Technical Skills
  • Plastic Injection Mold Building
  • Mold Assembly
  • Mold Maintenance
  • Mold Repair
  • Precision Machining
  • Blueprint Reading
  • Manual Machining
  • CNC Machining (Preferred)
  • CAD/CAM (Preferred)
  • Injection Molding Processes
  • Precision Inspection & Measurement
  • Preventive Maintenance
  • Root Cause Troubleshooting
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand, bend, kneel, and work around manufacturing equipment for extended periods.
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for precision work.