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Apprentice Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary This position supports the Assistant and/or Chief Engineer and ... Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred Job Responsibilities * Ensure ongoing ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC · On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

$66K - $90K/yr

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

Operating Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

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

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Operating Engineer information

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$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 the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 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 are hiring for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Apprentice Operating Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Apprentice Operating Engineer jobs include:

Operating Engineer

CHI St. Vincent Health

Little Rock, AR • On-site

$18.96 - $26.78/hr

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Where You'll Work
CHI St. Vincent, a regional health network serving Arkansas, is part of CommonSpirit Health. We have served Arkansas since 1888 with a history of many firsts. Together with more than 4500 coworkers, 1000 medical staff and 500 volunteers we consistently receive praise for care advancements. CommonSpirit Health was formed by the alignment of Catholic Health Initiatives (CHI) and Dignity Health in 2019. With our combined resources CommonSpirit is committed to building healthy communities advocating for those who are poor and vulnerable and innovating how and where healing can happen both inside our hospitals and out in the community. CHI St. Vincent provides you with the same level of care you provide to others. We care about our team member well-being and offer benefits that complement and support your work/life balance.
Job Summary and Responsibilities
As an Operating Engineer, you will independently perform journeyman-level duties, responsible for daily operational issues concerning the energy plant, hospital, and associated equipment/systems.
Every day, you will design, construct, install, or maintain building systems and equipment, ensuring safety, functionality, efficiency, and occupant comfort. You will also monitor equipment/system problems and recommend solutions for optimal facility performance.
Success in this role requires extensive technical expertise, a strong commitment to safety and efficiency, excellent problem-solving, and autonomous work with high operational standards.
  • Operates high-pressure boilers.
  • Operates chillers and absorbers.
  • Compiles water treatment reports.
  • Performs maintenance on boilers, chillers, pumps, steam pipes, and related machinery.
  • Operates automated building control computer and makes corrections as required.
  • Operates/adjusts air handling equipment.

Job Requirements
Required
  • High School Graduate or
  • High School GED and
  • At least 5 years work experience in power plant operating or successful completion of four year apprenticeship program in power plant operation or equivalent within Healthcare or related field and
  • None, upon hire and