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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs in Worcester, MA

CNC Machinist III - Lathe - 2nd Shift

Littleton, MA · On-site

$21 - $28.50/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

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 ...

CNC Machinist III - Lathe - 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 ...

CNC Machinist III - Lathe - 2nd Shift

Carlisle, MA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/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 - 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

Wayland, MA · On-site

$23.50 - $32.25/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 ...

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 ...

CNC Machinist III - Lathe - 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 - Milling - 2nd Shift

Littleton, MA · On-site

$21 - $28.50/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

Wayland, MA · On-site

$23.50 - $32.25/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 41-60

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.

CNC Machinist III - Lathe - 2nd Shift

Littleton, MA • On-site

TECOMET
Medical Equipment and Supplies Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$21 - $28.50/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Tecomet rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Summary

The CNC Machinist III produces machined parts by operating, setting up computer numerical control (CNC) machine; maintaining quality and safety standards; keeping records; maintaining equipment and supplies.  May be required to perform some programming. The role requires the above to be accomplished within Tecomet's principles of continuous improvement, customer driven innovation and a win first culture, while meeting company financial and other performance metrics. 

Principle Responsibilities

  • Operate, set up, and could program CNC mills, Wire EDM's, and CNC lathes within specified tolerances following work instructions and in accordance with machine programs and engineering drawings  
  • Propose new production Set ups and change offsets/tooling in machines as part of the new setup 
  • Perform difficult CNC Machinist work including progressive machining of a variety of parts and different metals where very close tolerances must be maintained  
  • Read and evaluate blueprints or specifications 
  • Troubleshoot and understand CNC programs and processes 
  • Improve and produce work Instructions 
  • Assist Engineering with redesigning fixtures to increase quality standards and productivity, change dull tooling, and/or make minor offsets and adjustments as needed for tooling wear  
  • Ensure product quality is achieved by working to operator owned quality (OOQ) standards and requirements including using a range of measuring equipment and interpreting readings  
  • Propose adjusted speeds and feeds for different machining requirements 
  • Perform routine maintenance as per daily machine checklist and adhere to PM schedule  
  • Perform hand finishing  
  • Always Follow Good Manufacturing and Good Document Practices (GMP/GDP) including completion of job routers/ cards 
  • Ensure safe working practices are carried out to minimize risks to the job holder and/or colleagues, including identifying and reporting Safety, Health & Environmental issues 
  • Achieve set productivity targets and identify ways of improving productivity  
  • Record all activities in a timely manner on the job tracking system 
  • Identify and support Continuous Improvement activities  
  • Identify and escalate manufacturing issues to the Team Leader and/or Supervisor, participating in the resolution as required 
  • Maintain 5S/housekeeping standards within work area 
  • Performs other duties or special projects as required or as assigned by supervisor 

Qualification Requirements

Credentials/Experience:

  • High School diploma or general education degree (GED) 
  • 5+ years CNC Machining experience

Experience/Educational/Training Preferred:

  • Associate degree/certificate in Tooling & Machining or Machinist apprenticeship preferred   
  • GCSE/NVQ Maths and English is desirable (UK only)   

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Ability to operate, set up, and maintain a CNC Machine  
  • Ability to run multiple CNC Machines  
  • Ability to set up, adjust offsets and operate and run development and production jobs  
  • Ability to program with some level of supervision  
  • Solid necessary math skills, including measuring and keeping count records  
  • Effective at planning, prioritizing, and organizing tasks and activities with the ability to deal with competing demands within specified timescales  
  • Able to read and follow technical drawings and diagrammed instructions  
  • Proven record of quality, on-time production runs  
  • Demonstrable commitment to safety always  
  • Attention to detail alongside ability to perform repeatable task over a prolonged period  
  • Positive attitude, reliable, and a team player  
  • Problem solving ability  
  • Good communication skills, written and verbal  
  • Solid computer skills  
  • Ability to train new or lower-level machinist 
    CNC!

Other Requirements

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this job, the employee could be required to stand.   The employee could frequently be required to walk; use hand to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear.  The employee could be required to sit; climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.   The employee could occasionally lift and or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by the job could include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision and ability to adjust focus.

Travel Requirements

No

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

Equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with Disabilities

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.  Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company.


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