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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52/Hour + Overtime | Company Paid Benefits | Paid Training | Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response Full-Time |Travel Up to ...

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Apprentice Operator I

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description: CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52/Hour + Overtime | Company Paid Benefits | Paid Training | Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response Full-Time |Travel Up ...

Semblex Corporation

Manufacturing Apprentice

Elmhurst, IL

$17 - $22/hr

At the completion of the Apprenticeship Program, the Apprentice will become a fully established skilled machine operator with equipment and production responsibilities, joining the Semblex family in ...

Semblex

Manufacturing Apprentice

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

At the completion of the Apprenticeship Program, the Apprentice will become a fully established skilled machine operator with equipment and production responsibilities, joining the Semblex family in ...

Semblex

Manufacturing Apprentice

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

At the completion of the Apprenticeship Program, the Apprentice will become a fully established skilled machine operator with equipment and production responsibilities, joining the Semblex family in ...

AB SPECIALTY SILICONES L LC

Chemical Operator

Waukegan, IL

$18.25 - $21/hr

Help with training of new operators/apprentice operators Volunteer and work weekends to maintain production demands Additional duties as assigned. Requirements Job Requirements and Qualifications ...

STUDS

Apprentice Piercer

Wilmette, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Apprentices undergo a minimum 6-week paid piercing training program inclusive of classroom style ... Becomes well-versed in piercing operating procedures and regulations to ensure client experience ...

STUDS

Apprentice Piercer

Wilmette, IL · On-site

$24/hr

Apprentices undergo a minimum 6-week paid piercing training program inclusive of classroom style ... Becomes well-versed in piercing operating procedures and regulations to ensure client experience ...

AB Specialty Silicones

Chemical Operator

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21/hr

... apprentice operators • Volunteer and work weekends to maintain production demands • Additional duties as assigned. Requirements Job Requirements and Qualifications Work Experience: 1+ years of ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$340 - $360/day

Pilot Apprentice - Ottawa, IL This is a full-time, non-exempt level position. Position Summary ... Operating a keyboard * Kneeling and climbing stairs/ladders * Ability to work near or on large ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$343 - $360/day

Pilot Apprentice - Ottawa, IL This is a full-time, non-exempt level position. Position Summary ... Operating a keyboard * Kneeling and climbing stairs/ladders * Ability to work near or on large ...

Swiss Automation Inc

CNC Apprentice

Cary, IL · On-site

$18/hr

CNC Apprentice The CNC Apprentice works in a production CNC environment with the expectation of ... Learn how to produce custom precision parts by operating Multi-axis CNC Swiss-style machines ...

Swiss Automation Inc

CNC Apprentice

Barrington, IL · On-site

$18/hr

CNC Apprentice The CNC Apprentice works in a production CNC environment with the expectation of ... Learn how to produce custom precision parts by operating Multi-axis CNC Swiss-style machines ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Illinois

Apprentice Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Illinois is $19.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.54 and $21.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice operator?

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 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 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 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 Illinois?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:

Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,652 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Apprentice Operator I

Hulcher Services Inc

Chicago, IL

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description

 CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I


$26.84 - $28.52/Hour + Overtime | Company Paid Benefits | Paid Training | Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response

Full-Time |Travel Up to 50% | 24/7 Emergency Response Operations


Turn Your CDL Into a Career

Hulcher Services is looking for motivated individuals with a Class A CDL who are ready to build a career operating specialized heavy equipment used in railroad derailment response and recovery.

This isn't a typical driving job. You'll receive hands-on training while working alongside experienced operators to learn how to safely recover derailed railcars and locomotives using cranes, hydraulic equipment, and other specialized machinery.

If you enjoy challenging work, operating equipment, traveling, and being part of a team that responds when others can't, this is an opportunity unlike any other.


Compensation & Benefits

  • $26.84 - $28.52 Per Hour
  • Overtime Opportunities
  • Weekly Pay
  • Company paid benefits 
  • Paid Training
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Full-Time, Year-Round Employment

About Hulcher Services

Hulcher Services is a nationwide leader in railroad derailment response, engineering, track maintenance, environmental services, and disaster recovery. With more than 500 employees operating from over 25 divisions throughout the United States and Mexico, we respond to critical incidents 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel.


What You'll Do

As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train alongside experienced crews while supporting emergency railroad operations throughout your assigned region.


Responsibilities include:

  • Transport specialized heavy equipment using tractor-trailers and escort vehicles.
  • Assist with railroad derailment recovery operations.
  • Learn to operate heavy recovery equipment under the guidance of experienced operators.
  • Handle heavy steel chains, wire rope, rigging equipment, lifting blocks, and recovery tools.
  • Climb on and beneath railcars and locomotives during recovery operations.
  • Perform equipment setup, maintenance, cleaning, and inspections.
  • Use hand tools, power tools, cutting torches, and welding equipment.
  • Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup.
  • Work safely around heavy equipment, active railroads, bridges, waterways, and industrial environments.
  • Follow all company safety procedures and operational standards.



Requirements

What We're Looking For


We're looking for dependable individuals who enjoy hands-on work and are ready to build a long-term career in heavy equipment and railroad operations.


Required Qualifications

  • Valid Class A CDL with no restrictions
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to travel up to 50%
  • Willingness to work in a 24/7 emergency response environment
  • Ability to pass required background screenings and pre-employment requirements
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally and 50 pounds frequently
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Comfortable working at heights exceeding 25 feet and around water when required

Experience in any of the following is a plus:

  • Heavy Equipment Operation
  • Construction
  • Truck Driving
  • Rigging
  • Railroad
  • Crane Operations
  • Welding
  • Diesel Mechanics
  • Oil & Gas
  • Utilities
  • Military
  • Agriculture
  • Work Schedule

This position supports emergency railroad operations, which means flexibility is essential.

  • Standard work schedule Monday through Friday
  • 24/7 on-call rotation for emergency derailment response
  • Travel required throughout the assigned territory
  • Overtime available during emergency response operations

Why Join Hulcher Services?

Few careers offer the opportunity to operate specialized heavy equipment while helping restore critical railroad infrastructure across North America.

At Hulcher Services, you'll receive hands-on training, work alongside experienced professionals, earn excellent company paid benefits, and build a career in a unique industry where your skills make an immediate impact.

If you're looking for more than just another CDL driving job and want a career with challenge, stability, and advancement opportunities, apply today and become part of the Hulcher Services team.

Apply