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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Worcester, MA

VP, Recruiting

Harvard, MA · On-site

$223K - $307K/yr

... controls engineers to machinists, operators, and manufacturing leaders. As we continue to scale ... Build long‑term talent pipelines through internships, apprenticeships, workforce development ...

VP, Recruiting

Devens, MA · On-site

$223K - $307K/yr

... controls engineers to machinists, operators, and manufacturing leaders. As we continue to scale ... Build long-term talent pipelines through internships, apprenticeships, workforce development ...

CNC Machinist III - Milling - 2nd Shift

Auburndale, MA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Position Summary The CNC Machinist III produces machined parts by operating, setting up computer ... Improve and produce work Instructions * Assist Engineering with redesigning fixtures to increase ...

Position Summary The CNC Machinist III produces machined parts by operating, setting up computer ... Improve and produce work Instructions * Assist Engineering with redesigning fixtures to increase ...

CNC Machinist III - Lathe - 2nd Shift

Westford, MA · On-site

$21.25 - $29/hr

Position Summary The CNC Machinist III produces machined parts by operating, setting up computer ... Improve and produce work Instructions * Assist Engineering with redesigning fixtures to increase ...

CNC Machinist III - Milling - 2nd Shift

Waltham, MA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Position Summary The CNC Machinist III produces machined parts by operating, setting up computer ... Improve and produce work Instructions * Assist Engineering with redesigning fixtures to increase ...

CNC Machinist III - Lathe - 2nd Shift

Auburndale, MA · On-site

$22.50 - $30.75/hr

Position Summary The CNC Machinist III produces machined parts by operating, setting up computer ... Improve and produce work Instructions * Assist Engineering with redesigning fixtures to increase ...

CNC Machinist III - Milling - 2nd Shift

Tyngsboro, MA · On-site

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Position Summary The CNC Machinist III produces machined parts by operating, setting up computer ... Improve and produce work Instructions * Assist Engineering with redesigning fixtures to increase ...

CNC Machinist III - Milling - 2nd Shift

Lincoln, MA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.25/hr

Position Summary The CNC Machinist III produces machined parts by operating, setting up computer ... Improve and produce work Instructions * Assist Engineering with redesigning fixtures to increase ...

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

See Worcester, MA salary details

$12

$21

$37

How much do apprentice operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operating engineer in Worcester, MA is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $23.99 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 Worcester, MA?

The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Worcester, MA are:

What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings in Worcester, MA as of September 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 $45,706 per year, or $22 per hour.

Quality Inspector-Woburn, Massachusetts

Framingham, MA

Boston Centerless, LLC
Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Test and inspect products and raw materials at various stages to ensure quality and reliability.

  • Record inspection data, evaluate conformance or deviations, and interpret specifications in collaboration with relevant staff.

  • Perform process audits, assist with receiving inspections, and select products for inspection at specified stages in production.


Job description

This position supports Production and Receiving by testing and inspecting products and raw materials at various stages. Records statistical and conventional data to determine and maintain quality and reliability of products. Focuses on 6’ & 12’ centerless ground bar materials.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Interpret specifications and confer with Value Stream Leaders, QA, Management, and Engineering staff to determine quality and reliability standards
  • Select products for inspection at specified stages in production and receiving. Checks products for variety of qualities, such as dimensions, appearance, and functional characteristics
  • Assist Warehouse personnel; performs receiving inspections on incoming materials
  • Perform First Piece, In-Process, and Final Inspections within the Value Streams
  • Record inspection data, in accordance with procedures
  • Evaluate data and indicate conformance or deviations from existing standards
  • Recommend modifications of existing quality or production standards to achieve optimum quality within limits of equipment capability
  • Assure calibrations within Value Streams are kept up to date
  • Maintain an organized and clean work area
  • Perform process audits of operator inspection processes

REQUIREMENTS / BACKGROUND:

  • Education & Training: 2 - 5 years of trade school, vocational, or apprenticeship in manufacturing preferred
  • Work Experience: 1-3 years in a quality role; ideally in an industrial or manufacturing environment
  • Physical Demands:
  • Stand, walk, push, pull frequently; reach overhead, and bend to the floor rarely to occasionally
  • Exert up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or
  • Exert up to 10 pounds of force frequently.
  • Visual Acuity:
  • Near acuity and accommodation are required for reading machine dial gauges, blueprints, and precision measuring instruments used in the inspection of parts.
  • Normal noise levels from operating machines
  • Exposure to oils and cutting fluids – rubber gloves provided as needed
  • Safety glasses and hearing protection recommended on the shop floor
  • May be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested

Working Conditions:

  • Normal noise levels from operating machines
  • Exposure to oils and cutting fluids – rubber gloves provided as needed
  • Safety glasses and hearing protection recommended on the shop floor
  • May be required to follow other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties as requested

SKILLS, TRAITS AND COMPETENCIES:

  • Measure parts in a timely and accurate manner
  • Identify/report problems to avoid scrap
  • Maintain a flexible outlook toward job assignments
  • Attention to detail - prepares paperwork accurately

COMPANY / POSITION INFORMATION:

We're 21st century artisans - utilizing state-of-the-art technology and old-world craftsmanship to provide precision metal bars, pre-production blanks and material preparation services to companies machining high precision components for a host of industries like medical device and automotive - helping them achieve success through streamlined operational excellence.