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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Duro Electric

Apprentice Electrician

Englewood, CO · On-site

Apprentice electricians will work under the observation of a Journeyman electrician to learn ... Follows all safety rules and regulations while on the job site and while operating company vehicles.

Speedy Glass

Apprentice Auto Glass Technician

Englewood, CO · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Our stores have varying operating hours, and we will work with you to establish a schedule that best suits you. Relax, you're covered. * Apprentices enjoy a comprehensive and customizable benefits ...

Murphy-Hoffman Company

Bodymen Apprentice

Denver, CO · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Job Details Job Title Bodymen Apprentice Business Function Body Shop Branch Name MHC Kenworth ... the operating, repairing, maintaining, or monitoring of heavy equipment, machinery, aircraft ...

Murphy-Hoffman Company

Bodymen Apprentice

Denver, CO · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Job Details Job Title Bodymen Apprentice Business Function Body Shop Branch Name MHC Kenworth ... the operating, repairing, maintaining, or monitoring of heavy equipment, machinery, aircraft ...

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$14

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How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Colorado is $21.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $22.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:
Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Colorado as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 21% Full Time, 78% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,112 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Apprentice Equipment Operator

Douglas County Sheriff's Office

Castle Rock, CO • On-site

$47.94K - $71.90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Apprentice Equipment Operator
Employment Type: 0 - Full-time Regular
Pay Range: $47,936.00 - 71,904.00
Location: Castle Rock, CO
Overtime Exempt: N
Elected Office / Department: DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
This is work responsible for operating and maintaining County vehicles, heavy equipment, and performing manual labor activities. Incumbent operates a variety of heavy equipment used in the repair, maintenance, and construction of native, gravel, and paved roads as well as the associated structures. Apprentices are taught the proper use, care, and safe handling of the equipment used in connection with their work and the important skills necessary to become a successful Equipment Operator. Apprentices are required to complete training and any prescribed courses related to the trade to complement on-the-job training and attain career progression.
The Biochar Apprentice Equipment Operator supports the production of biochar through the safe operation, maintenance, and monitoring of pyrolysis equipment and related systems. This entry-level role is designed for individuals interested in renewable energy, carbon sequestration, and sustainable land management, offering hands-on training in biochar production processes.
Generally, the hiring range is $47,936-$59,920 annually.Qualifications, education and experience as it relates to the position will betaken into consideration when determining hiring salary.
Yourfuture is important to us.
Douglas County offers a comprehensive benefits package - including medical,dental, vision, and retirement plans - plus a wide range of additionalresources to support your health, growth, and overall well-being. View the full Employee Benefits Guide
View the full job description here
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: (The following examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be all inclusive.)
Dependent on the type and class of License, the incumbent may be able to utilize a variety of equipment to accomplish the following tasks. Under provisions of a Commercial Learner's Permit, incumbents in training may operate some equipment off-road with close supervision to obtain mastery of equipment operation.
  • Operates equipment including pickups, rollers, water tankers, mowers, sweepers, loaders, backhoes, excavators, snowplows, sanders, motor graders, dozers, scrapers, paving equipment, milling machines, concrete mixers, mud jack pumps, sprayers, and other construction and maintenance equipment.
  • Performs a variety of road maintenance tasks involving the operation of the equipment stated above and manual labor tasks, including pothole repair, concrete repair, asphalt overlays, culvert repair and maintenance, bridge repair, shoulder maintenance, ditch maintenance, shoveling, raking, fence construction, tree trimming, etc.
  • Responds to emergency situations including, but not limited to blizzards, fires, floods, and other disasters.
  • Performs snow and ice removal, which includes the application of anti-icing and deicing materials.
  • Assists with placement of traffic control signage and provides traffic flagging during construction activities.
  • Performs daily inspection on equipment and vehicles used.
  • Provides good customer service. Collaborates with Supervisors to respond to customer service requests. Required to model good customer service and adherence to the code of conduct.
  • Helps ensure that all equipment is properly maintained. May perform equipment maintenance/fabrication.
  • Performs manual labor using various hand tools or equipment, including shovels, picks, jackhammers, power saws, and other tools.
  • Paints and sandblasts structures.
  • Installs and repairs guardrail, fencing, snow fence, culverts, and other road structures.
  • Establishes and maintains positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties.
  • Required to complete at least one external training session/class. Must be a minimum of four hours.
  • Performs miscellaneous minor maintenance work on vehicles and equipment.
  • Collects debris along County roads.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

GreenWorks - Biochar:
  • Assist in the operation of biochar production units, including kilns, retorts, or pyrolysis reactors
  • Monitor temperature, airflow, and feedstock input to ensure efficient and consistent biochar production
  • Load and unload biomass materials (e.g., wood chips, agricultural waste)
  • Perform routine equipment inspections, cleaning, and basic maintenance
  • Follow all safety procedures related to high-heat systems, machinery, and material handling
  • Support packaging, storage, and transport of finished biochar products
  • Record production data and assist with reporting and quality control
  • Maintain a clean and organized worksite
  • Work collaboratively with team members and supervisors to improve processes

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
  • A high school diploma or GED is required.
  • One year education or experience in highway maintenance or equipment operation is preferred.

CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, & REGISTRATIONS:
  • Must possess a valid State of Colorado Driver License Class R upon hire (preferably a Class C), with complying insurance. Review of motor vehicle record is required at time of hire and periodically throughout employment.
  • Must obtain a State of Colorado Commercial Driver License Class B with air brake endorsement within 12 months of hire.
  • Incumbent is expected to obtain a Commercial Driver License Class A to achieve career progression in this classification series. Incumbents in this position must meet the Department of Transportation physical exam and drug and alcohol testing requirements.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Closing Date: 6/12/2026 4:59PM MST. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable candidate is selected.
The job details outlined in this posting may represent amodified summary of the full job description. For a full copy ofthe job description CLICK HERE toview our job classifications.
In the event of an emergency/disaster in or near the County, all County employees are expected to make every effort to be available to assist the County Manager, Elected/Appointed Officials and Department Directors to ensure the continued operation of any and all necessary County functions. This may mean being available to perform additional duties and hours beyond what is normally required. In the event that an exempt employee does work more than 40 hours a week in support of County operations during an emergency, such employee may receive overtime or other appropriate wage compensation in accordance with existing County policies or at the discretion of the County.

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