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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

State of Colorado

CO · On-site

$43K/yr

Apprentices will learn these skills ... Plowing snow Operating heavy equipment, such as tandem dump truck, loader, tractor mower, etc.

three amigos plumbing

Be Seen First

Plumbing Apprentice

Cimarron Hills, CO · On-site

Three Amigos Plumbing is seeking a motivated and dependable Apprentice Plumber to join our growing ... Company Description We are family owned and operated and would love to bring the next person in ...

State of Colorado

CO · On-site

$43K/yr

Apprentices will earn their Commercial Driver's License and the requirements to qualify for a ... Plowing snow Operating heavy equipment, such as tandem dump truck, loader, tractor mower, etc.

State of Colorado

CO · On-site

$43K/yr

Apprentices will earn their Commercial Driver's License and the requirements to qualify for a ... Plowing snow Operating heavy equipment, such as tandem dump truck, loader, tractor mower, etc.

Olgoonik Corporation

Electrician Apprentice

Aurora, CO · On-site

Apprentice level wireman in a commercial, industrial, or facilities operating setting required. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: * Knowledge of electrical theory and methods, materials, tools ...

West Star Aviation

WSAA Apprentice

Grand Junction, CO

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

This position is a full-time paid apprenticeship to include benefits eligibility from day 1. ... Operating Procedures. * Safety-sensitive positions require a commitment to being drug-free this ...

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All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Colorado

Apprentice Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 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.

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 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
Apprentice Mechanic Welder

Apprentice Mechanic Welder

Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, Inc.

Craig, CO

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Performs preventive maintenance, repairs, and replacements on mechanical equipment at the generating stations including, but not limited to turbines, pumps, valves, mills, fans, pulverizers, piping, conveyors, and rail cars.  Performs other maintenance jobs such as painting and plumbing as required.

Education and Training

  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Knowledge, Skills, and Ability:

  • Strong analytic, diagnostic direction, independent judgment, and ability to follow written procedures
  • Expected to work under remote supervision by initiating work plans, reporting them to supervision, a Control Room Operator, or Shift Supervisor, and executing the plan, which is jointly developed.

  • Ability to work independently with authority to analyze a situation and decide when supervision is needed.

  • Ability to read and interpret gauges, indicators, monitors, and other devices used to operate power plant equipment and to identify operating problems and troubleshoot equipment malfunctions.

  • Coal fired power plant maintenance experience preferred.

Other:

  • Must have a satisfactory work record
  • Must have and maintain a valid Colorado Class R driver's license.
  • Position may require working shift work.
  • Must have sufficient knowledge of and skill in, the safe use of mechanics and welding tools.

  • In addition to the above: 

  • Apprentice

    • Must successfully pass the Tri-State Apprentice Mechanic Welder General Knowledge Test (LMS) with a 65% or better score.

    • Requires any one of the following:

      • Two years mechanic/welding experience in preventative maintenance, repairs or installation of heavy industrial mechanical equipment, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

OR

  • Six months of Tri-State's Power Plant experience.

    • Tri-State may require you to demonstrate that you can perform the essential job functions.

  • Journey level

    • Must successfully pass the Tri-State Journey Level Mechanic Welder General Knowledge Test (LMS test) with a 75% or better score.

  • Journey level (cont.)

    • Requires any one of the following:

      • Must have successfully passed Tri-State's Mechanic Welder Apprentice Program,

OR

  • Must have successfully completed a three-year apprentice program recognized by Tri-State in mechanical maintenance and two years mechanical experience in preventative maintenance, repairs or installation of heavy industrial mechanical equipment, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience

OR

  • Five years' experience in the industrial field as a journey level mechanic.

    • Tri-State may require you to demonstrate that you can perform the essential job functions.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Physical demands:  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to walk extensively, twist, work in awkward positions, work at heights, climb, heavy lifting, bend, kneel, and stand for extended periods.
  • Mental demands: While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is required to utilize the application of independent reasoned judgements pertaining to the identification, analysis, evaluation, and disposition of the job duties listed above. The employee must have strong analytic, diagnostic, and troubleshooting skills.  Guidelines consist of supervisory direction, written procedures, and independent judgment, and the employee has independent authority to analyze a situation and decide when supervision is needed, although supervision is always available.
  • Work Environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to extremes of noise, temperature, fumes, and dust. In addition, the employee may be required to work in high and confined spaces. 

  • Performs preventive maintenance on the above-mentioned mechanical equipment, including, but not limited to, the following duties:

    • Utilizing a preventive maintenance computer program to determine what equipment needs to be inspected or maintained

    • Determining if it is necessary to get a clearance on the piece of equipment and performing necessary clearance procedures as appropriate.

    • Troubleshooting the equipment for defects visually, by sense of feel, using available tools for dismantling and reassembly and using knowledge and judgement concerning the function and normal operation of the equipment.

    • Changing oil and lubricating the equipment as necessary.

    • Cleaning the equipment as necessary.

    • Aligning the equipment as necessary.

    • Checking tolerances and working parameters of the equipment as necessary

    • Replacing worn and broken parts as necessary.

    • Requesting repair or replacement of the equipment as appropriate.

    • Responsible for keeping work areas clean and general plant housekeeping

  • Performs major and minor repairs on the above-mentioned mechanical equipment and installs new equipment, including, but not limited to the following duties:

    • Preparing or responding to a maintenance request

    • Identifying tools, parts, equipment, personnel assistance, and safety measures needed to satisfactorily complete the job

    • Requesting Clearance Orders and hot work permits as necessary

    • Preparing the work area and equipment so the necessary repairs can be performed

    • Identifying defects to repair the equipment

    • Completing the repair or installation by correcting, removing, replacing, or bypassing the defective equipment

    • Rebuilding the equipment and returning it to service

    • Filling out and completing the maintenance request and other paperwork involved in doing the job.

  • Safely operating equipment, including, but not limited to the following:

    • Respirators
    • Two-way radios
    • Cars and utility vehicles
    • Power tools
    • Pneumatic tools
    • Gas powered tools
    • Rigging equipment
    • Overhead crane
    • Ladders
    • Scaffolding
    • Cutting torch
    • Micrometer
    • Mobile cranes/skid loaders

  • Safely fabricate, install, and maintain structural systems, including, but not limited to, the use of the following welding processes to meet American Society of Mechanical Engineers section IX and American Welding Society Structural codes:

  • Oxy-acetylene cutting

  • Plasma-arc cutting

  • Oxy-acetylene welding

  • Fiberglass and plastic pipe joining.

  • ASME Section 9 position 3G Per Figure QW 4H1.3 Groove Weld in Plate.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

  • Contribute to overall plant safety by adhering to safety standards and assisting in the instruction and on-the-job training of apprentices as assigned.

  • Keep personal work areas clean and free of safety hazards.

  • Comply with work rules and other written or verbal expectations.

  • Clean areas as assigned per cleaning schedule.

  • Assist in the instruction and on-the-job training of apprentices as assigned.

  • Adhere to and demonstrate compliance with appropriate electric utility industry regulatory requirements.  Attain knowledge and remain knowledgeable of development in regulations, laws, standards, and best practices applicable to the functional area including, but not limited to, Standards of Conduct, Environmental, Employment Law, NERC Reliability Standards and Safety.  Must be familiar with, and comply with, all aspects of Corporate Policy C-54, Compliance. 

  • Demonstrate behavior consistent with Tri-State's culture embodied in the Cooperative principles and spirit and core values of technical competency, respect and dignity, accountability, integrity, trustworthiness, and servant leadership to empower or otherwise enable others to optimally perform their job responsibilities. Demonstrate and promote ethics and behaviors consistent with Tri-State's culture, Board policies, and business practices. Understand and fulfill the role and responsibility for all compliance programs within the company.

  • Because Tri-State is an electric utility with continuous service obligations to its customers, regular, reliable, and predictable performance of the essential functions and responsibilities is an essential function of the job.

  • Because Tri-State has an obligation to provide continuous, reliable electric service to its customers, the ability to work overtime at any time of the day or week is considered an essential function of the job.

SUCCESS FACTORS/JOB COMPETENCIES: 

  • Takes an active approach to safety, understands, utilizes, and enforces safe work practices. 

  • Promotes safety and inspires others working with them to work safely.

  • Planning:  Ability to think ahead and plan within timelines and resources; plan and schedule work; set priorities and goals; anticipate and adjust for problems; evaluate workload.

  • Time management: the ability to successfully plan and implement objectives within established timelines and work schedules.

  • Problem analysis and problem resolution at both strategic and functional levels.

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

  • Strong team player

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