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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Maintenance Apprentice Day

Ozark, AR

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

As a Maintenance Apprentice, you will engage in a structured learning program under the supervision ... Operating handheld and/or mechanical machinery * Climbing stairs * Working with hand tools

Apprentice Electrician Pay Range: $17-$20 per hour, depending on experience ABOUT THE ROLE As an ... Each franchise location is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will ...

STALEY ELECTRIC - ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE Staley Electric is an award-winning electrical service ... and operating power tools. * This is a Safety Sensitive position per Act 593 of 2017. Staley ...

Training & development Electrician Apprentice Little Rock, AR | Full-Time Starting Pay: $15-$18 per ... Each franchise location is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will ...

STALEY ELECTRIC - ELECTRICAL APPRENTICE Staley Electric is an award-winning electrical service ... and operating power tools. * This is a Safety Sensitive position per Act 593 of 2017. Staley ...

Operator Apprentice 1

Mansfield, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Mill Operator Mansfield, AR Our Machine Operator Trainee/Utility position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

Operator Apprentice 1

Mansfield, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Mill Operator Mansfield, AR Our Machine Operator Trainee/Utility position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

Operator Apprentice 1

Mansfield, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Mill Operator Mansfield, AR Our Machine Operator Trainee/Utility position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

Operating Apprentice 1

Russellville, AR · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

This an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled equipment operator positions. The successful applicant will be allowed an ...

Operating Apprentice 1

Russellville, AR · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

This an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled equipment operator positions. The successful applicant will be allowed an ...

Operating Apprentice 1

Russellville, AR

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

This an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled equipment operator positions. The successful applicant will be allowed an ...

IV Compounding Apprentice Level I

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

The IV Compounding Apprentice Level I is responsible for assisting with the preparation of sterile ... Must have strong discipline and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures repeatedly. * Must ...

IV Compounding Apprentice Level I

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

The IV Compounding Apprentice Level I is responsible for assisting with the preparation of sterile ... Must have strong discipline and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures repeatedly. * Must ...

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Blender Apprentice

Smackover, AR · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

SUMMARY The Blender Apprentice will accurately record temperature, times, and lot numbers of raw ... Must be licensed forklift truck operator. Or get certification upon hire. * Other duties as ...

Equipment Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

The Equipment Operator will be responsible for ditching of new house services, sub-division ... State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program * Paid Vacation * Servant Leadership ...

Saw Operator

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Saw Operator Req Id: 2780 Workplace Type: On-Site Job Shift: 2nd Brand: Ryerson Job Location: Fort ... Successful candidates will be enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program as part of their ...

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Apprentice Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$11

$16

$24

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Arkansas is $16.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.13 and $18.08 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Arkansas? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Arkansas are:
Maintenance Apprentice Day

Maintenance Apprentice Day

Butterball

Ozark, AR

$15.25 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Butterball rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

221st of 388 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Position Summary: 

As a Maintenance Apprentice, you will engage in a structured learning program under the supervision of maintenance leaders and subject matter experts. As you work through the program, you will assist maintenance teams and support all aspects of the maintenance department as needed or directed.

About the Maintenance Apprenticeship Program (MAP)

The Maintenance Apprenticeship Program (MAP) is a unique opportunity for a limited number of qualifying individuals to participate in a hands-on, practical application learning initiative intended to compliment the apprentice’s academic coursework by working side-by-side with maintenance leaders and subject matter experts at a Butterball plant/facility. The apprenticeship opportunity is available on a part-time (25 hours per week) or full-time basis (40 hours per week).

Part-Time: Designed with the traditional student in mind, the part-time approach allows you to compliment your academic learnings with all aspects of our practical application apprenticeship program. (25 hours/week).

Full-Time: Designed for those who have recently completed their technical education, the full-time approach allows you to supplement the apprenticeship program with additional hours working in support of the facility’s ongoing maintenance needs (40 hours per week).

Semester 1

Apprentices accepted into the program will work at the Butterball plant nearest their educational institution for a period of one semester, lasting 14 weeks. During Semester 1, each apprentice will engage in a structured, hands-on learning program.

Semester 2

A select group of apprentices, having successfully completed Semester 1 and proven their competency in the required areas, will be invited to participate in the Semester 2 capstone of the Maintenance Apprenticeship Program (MAP), lasting 16 weeks.

Full-time Employment Opportunity

Those remaining apprentices, having successfully completed both Semester 1 and Semester 2, will be eligible to join Butterball as a full-time maintenance technician.

Paid Apprenticeship

Apprentices accepted into the Maintenance Apprenticeship Program (MAP) will be paid at an hourly rate commensurate with an entry-level/trainee-level maintenance team member.

Essential Duties, Functions, and Responsibilities:

  • Under the supervision of maintenance leaders and subject matter experts, engage in a maintenance technician apprenticeship program that will involve hands-on learning and application in such areas as:
    • Workplace Safety
    • Motor Maintenance
    • Electrical Troubleshooting
    • Control Wiring
    • Pumps
    • Hydraulics and Pneumatics
  • Post-training, the apprentice will be required to show / prove competency in the areas noted above
  • Assist maintenance team and support all aspects of the maintenance department as needed or directed
  • Perform preventative maintenance on plant equipment or machinery
  • Follows all work safety policies and guidelines
  • Observes equipment operation, notifying appropriate personnel of any malfunctions and/or safety issues/concerns
  • Adheres to all USDA and GMP (Good Manufacturing Processes) product standards and guidelines
  • Maintains a clean and organized work area
  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • Accountable to maintain punctual and regular attendance for scheduled work hours

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must have successfully completed 3 or more courses, in or post-HS and within the past 18 months, in at least one of the following areas of specialization / training:
    • PLC Programming
    • Motor Controls
    • Electrical
    • Electronics
    • Industrial Ammonia Refrigeration (IAR)
    • Welding
  • Must be able to follow diagrams, operation manuals and manufacturing instructions
  • Must be able to read schematics
  • Must be able to perform basic troubleshooting
  • With appropriate supervision and training, must be able to handle situations involving electrical meeting water
  • Must have ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Must have ability to communicate effectively and follow verbal and written instructions
  • Must be willing and able to perform physical requirements of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age and legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Must pass a background check, drug screen and pre-employment physical

 Physical Requirements:

  • Standing (6 hours a day or more),
  • Lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling (up to and including 50lbs or more)
  • Reaching overhead (up to and including 25lbs)
  • Operating handheld and/or mechanical machinery
  • Climbing stairs
  • Working with hand tools
  • Gripping, grasping, and twisting using hands and wrists
  • Bending and stooping for long periods of time.

**This position is deemed Safety Sensitive for purposes of Butterball’s Drug/Alcohol Screening & Testing Policy. Details will be provided to individuals who receive a conditional job offer, or upon request.**

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 what is required of personnel so classified.  Furthermore, they do not imply or establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.

 

Butterball, LLC is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the fair and impartial treatment of all employees and applicants for employment without regard to gender, age, race, religion, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, military/veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, or any other status protected by law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 


We embrace equal opportunity employment. Butterball is committed to the fair and impartial treatment of all employees and applicants for employment without regard to gender, age, race, religion, color, national origin, physical or mental disability, military/veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, or any other status protected by law. This position is deemed Safety Sensitive for purposes of Butterball’s Drug/Alcohol Screening & Testing Policy. Details will be provided to individuals who receive a conditional job offer, or upon request.

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About Butterball

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Butterball, LLC, one of America's most iconic brands, helps consumers celebrate Thanksgiving and every day in between. Located in the thriving Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina area, our goal is to provide a diverse array of career opportunities and paths which include our farms, processing facilities and support offices. We are the largest producer of turkey products in the U.S., and we make a lot more than Thanksgiving turkeys. Our company's measurable growth is in no small part due to our team members in North Carolina, Arkansas, Illinois, and Missouri, who each have a seat at the table to contribute to our success

Industry

Food and beverage wholesalers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Garner, NC, US

Year founded

1954

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