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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Millwright Apprentice This role involves installing, maintaining, and repairing industrial ... You will work on-site as part of a large crew of approximately 120 people, typically operating in ...

Automation Engineering Apprentice - JLL What this job involves As an Automation Engineering ... Operating safely around energized equipment and moving conveyors. At JLL, we work together to ...

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Apprentice Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$18

$27

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Iowa is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,403 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Controls Technician Apprentice

Controls Technician Apprentice

trane technologies

Davenport, IA • On-site

$22.59 - $30.67/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Trane Technologies rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 297 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

113th of 534 rated manufacturers


Job description

Be a part of our mission! As a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable, and efficient climate solutions for buildings, homes and transportation, it's our responsibility to put the planet first. For us at Trane Technologies, and through our businesses including TraneandThermo King, sustainability is not just how we do business-it is our business. Do you dare to look at the world's challenges and see impactful possibilities? Do you want to contribute to making a better future? If the answer is yes, we invite you to consider joining us in boldly challenging what's possible for a sustainable world.

Learn about our benefits designed for you to Thrive at work and at home.

We boldly go.

Where is the work:

Prioritize engaging with customers. When not directly interacting with customers; collaborate with colleagues in your office.

As a HVAC Technician Apprentice, you will be primarily responsible for assisting seasoned Service Technicians in the installation and repair of environmental control systems, utilizing knowledge of refrigeration theory, control systems, pipe fitting, and structural layouts. Trane Technologies affords you the opportunity to work directly for a leading manufacturer, giving you access to technical support, training on the newest technology and comprehensive career paths with opportunity for growth.

What you will do:

  • Ensure customer satisfaction by servicing products, equipment, and systems at customer's locations to include: identifying, examining, diagnosing, and planning for equipment repair.
  • Work with supervising field technician, project manager and customers to precisely understand requirements for all on-site installations such as: forecasting issues, gathering materials and synchronizing on-site work.
  • Use cutting edge software and technology, a variety of hand-tools, and blueprints / engineering specifications to diagnose and repair units.
  • Continually enforce safety to the highest standards and maintains security and accountability of company issued and procured assets.

You will have the opportunity for consideration for our unique, highly sought after Trane Commercial HVAC Technician Apprenticeship Program (TAP). This is a robust, four-year apprenticeship program Nationally Registered through the US department of Labor for aspiring technicians in the United States that includes paid instruction time and on-the-job training.

When a part of the program, program participants are paired with dedicated mentors who help participants learn everything they need to know about the HVAC industry. As participants advance through the program, they will receive regular pay increases, and upon successful completion, they'll be awarded with a nationally recognized industry credential and be promoted to a HVAC Service Technician.

What you will bring:

  • No Industry Experience Required.
    • Technical school certificates and/or formal HVAC training/experience is not required but will be considered when determining proficiency level for the program and starting compensation.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age when you start on day 1.
  • A High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license for a minimum of 12 months, with no major or frequent traffic violations in the last 3 years.
  • A strong desire to learn a trade and directly impact the world around you.

Additional Requirements and Environmental Exposure:

  • Must be able to safely and legally operate a vehicle using a seat belt
  • Must be able to wear helmets, safety goggles, fall protection harness and safety boots to safely perform job duties
  • Must be able to twist the trunk of your body 90 degrees in each direction
  • Must be able to squat and touch the floor with both hands
  • Must be able to reach your hands over your head
  • Must be able to stand on concrete surfaces for extended periods, routinely up to 4 hours
  • This position is highly physical and requires regular use of hands, fingers, walking, stooping, kneeling and climbing ladders. It requires employees to regularly lift and or move up to 10 lbs., frequently lift and/or move up to 40 lbs. and occasionally lift and/or move more than 40 lbs.
  • Must be able to safely use a ladder with a 375 lb. total weight limit, while carrying equipment of 50 lbs. or less
  • Must be able to maneuver confined access areas, as small as 30" vertical x 45" horizontal
  • Must be able to comfortably and routinely access rooftops with extension and/or fixed ladders at heights of 15' to 20', and occasionally, up to 50 feet +
  • This role may be exposed to variable weather conditions, moving mechanical parts, heights, risk of electrical shock, noisy operating equipment and other variable environmental conditions based on location

Annual Base Salary Range or Hourly Base Pay Range:

$22.59 - $30.67

Compensation Type:

Hourly

Incentive Eligible:

No

Sales Commission Eligible:

No

Disclaimer: We strive to provide competitive compensation for this position, tailored to a variety of factors. The actual compensation will depend on elements such as seniority, merit, geographic location, education, experience, travel requirements, and union designation. Our compensation range is generally based on the national average for the country. Additionally, benefits may vary depending on the region, business alignment, union involvement, and employee status.

Safety Sensitive Role:

Yes

The company designates certain roles as Safety Sensitive. Safety Sensitive roles may require that you pass additional drug screening.

We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits and programs. We are an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, pregnancy, age, marital status, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any legally protected status.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Trane Technologies employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Trane Technologies logo

About Trane Technologies

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Trane Technologies and through our businesses including Trane® and Thermo King®, we create innovative climate solutions for buildings, homes, and transportation that challenge what's possible for a sustainable world. We're a team that dares to look at the world's challenges and see impactful possibilities. We believe in a better future when we uplift others and enable our people to thrive at work and at home. We boldly go.

Industry

Industrial machinery manufacturing and machinery manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US