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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

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 ...

Levy

Heavy Equipment Operator, SMS

Osceola, AR · On-site

The Heavy Equipment Operators perform all functions as it pertains to operating heavy off-road ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

Sundt

Forklift Operator

Morrilton, AR · On-site

$13.50 - $16/hr

From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do ... operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery, or power tools, repairing ...

Sundt

Forklift Operator

Morrilton, AR

$13.50 - $16/hr

From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do ... operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery, or power tools, repairing ...

Sundt Construction, Inc.

Forklift Operator

Morrilton, AR · On-site

$13.50 - $16/hr

From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do ... operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery, or power tools, repairing ...

Sundt

Forklift Operator

Morrilton, AR

$13.50 - $16/hr

From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do ... operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery, or power tools, repairing ...

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All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Arkansas

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:
Apprentice Operator jobs near you

Equipment Operator

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Fort Smith, AR • On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

For over seven decades investor-owned utilities, municipalities, cooperatives, and others have entrusted their electrical construction and maintenance needs to Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc. (Elliot).
Elliot is a full-service electrical contractor specializing in overhead and underground distribution, transmission, substations, lighting, traffic signaling, utility locating and industrial/commercial services.
Job Description
The Equipment Operator will be responsible for ditching of new house services, sub-division services, and large trench projects to the customer's satisfaction. This includes trenching with trenchers, as well as hand digging due to congestion or working in areas where equipment cannot access. The Equipment Operator will also learn to work around, and in, electric equipment.
Qualifications
  • Experience with excavators of all sizes, as well as with crossing/digging across utilities
  • Ability to effectively lead a crew
  • Willing to travel when necessary
  • Must have, or be eligible to obtain, a Class A CDL

Benefits/Culture
Today, we are listed among Engineering News-Records Top 150 Specialty Contracting firms. Our success is based on our customers' confidence in us; the loyalty, hard work and performance of our people; and the traditions with which Mr. Davis H. Elliot began the company in 1946. We understand that having the best team requires people being treated like family. Some of the benefits we offer our team includes:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance w/ additional Voluntary Life Insurance
  • 401K w/ company match
  • Employee Stock Ownership Program
  • State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program
  • Paid Vacation
  • Servant Leadership Training
  • Uniforms and PPE provided

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources at
Phone: 859-263-5148 x1504Email: clester@dhec.com
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.
If you want to view the Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal poster, click HERE
If you want to view the Pay Transparency Policy Statement, please click the link: English

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