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Apprentice Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Farmer Holding Company

Apprentice Operator

Jefferson City, MO · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Apprentice Operator works under the guidance of experienced operators and supervisors to learn the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment while supporting daily operations. This role is ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator II

Arvada, CO

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator II. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Hammond, IN · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Hammond, IN · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used in clearing ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used in clearing ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator II

Walbridge, OH · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator II. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used in clearing ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator II

Walbridge, OH · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator II. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Hammond, IN · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Houston, TX · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Pasco, WA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used in clearing ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used in clearing ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used ...

Hulcher Services, Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Sauget, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Hammond, IN · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used in clearing ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Houston, TX · On-site

$26.84/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description Hulcher Services is seeking a motivated and success-driven Apprentice Operator I. You will play a vital role in transporting, operating and the servicing of assigned heavy equipment used ...

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Apprentice Operator information

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$13

$20

$29

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

Apprentice operators can be of various ages, and 27 is not considered too old to start an apprenticeship. Many programs welcome individuals of different ages, especially if they have the necessary skills, motivation, and meet any specific program requirements such as a high school diploma or relevant certifications.

What is the difference between Apprentice Operator vs Operator?

AspectApprentice OperatorOperator
Required CredentialsBasic certifications, on-the-job trainingAdvanced certifications, experience
Work EnvironmentSupervised training settingFull operational environment
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, entry-level rolesFull-time operational roles in manufacturing, utilities

The main difference between an Apprentice Operator and an Operator is experience and certification level. Apprentice Operators are in training, gaining skills under supervision, while Operators have completed training and are fully responsible for operations. Apprentices focus on learning, whereas Operators handle daily operational tasks independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes entry-level certifications such as OSHA training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help individuals excel in this hands-on environment. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient, and accurate operation of machinery, which is critical to maintaining production standards and workplace safety.

What do operator apprentices do?

Operator apprentices are trainees who learn to operate machinery or equipment under supervision, gaining hands-on experience in their field. They often assist with setup, maintenance, and monitoring of equipment, and may work toward obtaining certifications or licenses required for full operator roles.

What can I expect during my first few months as an Apprentice Operator?

During your initial months as an Apprentice Operator, you'll primarily focus on learning operational procedures, safety protocols, and equipment handling under the guidance of experienced operators. You'll rotate through different stations, participate in hands-on training, and gradually take on more responsibility as you demonstrate competence. Close supervision and feedback are typical, as safety and accuracy are paramount in this role. Expect to work in a team-oriented environment where collaboration and clear communication are essential for smooth operations and troubleshooting.

What are Apprentice Operators?

Apprentice Operators are entry-level workers who are learning to operate machinery or equipment under the supervision of experienced operators. They typically participate in a structured training program that combines on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. The goal is to develop the technical skills and knowledge needed to perform the operator role independently. Apprentice Operators are common in industries such as manufacturing, utilities, and construction, where hands-on training is essential. Their responsibilities may include monitoring equipment, assisting with maintenance, and following safety procedures.

What apprentice job pays the most?

Among apprentice roles, those in skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC often offer the highest pay, with starting wages typically higher than other apprenticeships. Advanced apprenticeships in fields like manufacturing or technical maintenance can also lead to higher earnings as skills and certifications increase.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship?

The highest paying apprenticeships are often in skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC, where apprentices can earn competitive wages that increase with experience. Some technical fields like aerospace or certain manufacturing roles also offer high-paying apprenticeship programs, especially when combined with certifications or specialized skills.
More about Apprentice Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs? The most popular types of Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Operator jobs include:
Apprentice Operator jobs near you

Apprentice Operator

Farmer Holding Company

Jefferson City, MO • On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Capital Paving and Construction is a heavy highway and civil construction company that provides quality work, experience, reliability, and safety records to construct projects on time and on budget. We are committed to building long-term customer and employee relationships.

We are seeking individuals interested in working on highway, bridge, and earthwork projects throughout Missouri as an apprentice. The Apprentice Operator works under the guidance of experienced operators and supervisors to learn the safe and efficient operation of heavy equipment while supporting daily operations. This role is designed to build foundational skills, safety awareness, and technical knowledge, with increasing responsibility as competencies are demonstrated. Upon successful completion of the two-year apprenticeship, participants will achieve journeyman status.

Responsibilities:

  • Show a positive attitude and a willingness to learn while always putting safety first.
  • Follow instructions from supervisors and experienced operators to complete daily tasks and learn job expectations.
  • Learn how to safely operate a variety of heavy equipment with hands-on training, including backhoes, excavators, dozers, graders, skid steers, off-road and on-road trucks, rollers, brooms, and other equipment.
  • Assist with jobsite activities such as clearing and cleanup, demolition, utility pipelaying, earthwork excavation and embankment, stone and base construction, and other related work.
  • Perform general labor tasks as needed and help with other duties as assigned.
  • Help complete pre- and post-shift equipment inspections and report any concerns to a supervisor.
  • Assist with basic equipment care, maintenance, and minor repairs as instructed.

Training & Development

  • Participate in on-the-job and classroom training with qualified operators
  • Progress through apprenticeship milestones as defined by the company
  • Receive performance feedback and skill evaluations
  • Advance toward full Operator status upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Interest in learning heavy equipment operation
  • Ability to perform physical labor, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and positive attitude
  • Ability to properly follow company policies and OSHA/MSHA requirements for safe working procedures and environments.
  • Willingness to undergo a background check, physical, drug, and alcohol testing.

Travel:

Employee is responsible for their own transportation. This position involves continuous travel between job sites, including frequent overnight stays.

Typical Work Week:

Primarily Monday-Friday, which can consist of day, evening, and night hours.  Occasionally must work weekends and holidays to meet job needs.

Environmental/ Health Exposures:

Work may involve exposure to extreme temperatures (Hot and Cold), changing weather conditions, dust, chemical vapors, lead fumes, and working at heights with potential fall hazards.

EEO/Employer/Vet/Disabled

Capital will give consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

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