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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Production Machine Operator

Danville, KY

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Job Designation The Machine Operator will be responsible for the setup and operation of a variety ... Vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field preferred Years ...

Bore Machine Operator

Lexington, KY ยท On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

The Bore Machine Operator requires experience with directional drilling or locating equipment on a ... State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program * Paid Vacation * Servant Leadership ...

Packaging Operator

Bowling Green, KY ยท On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

From apprenticeship programs and technical training to leadership development opportunities, ALPLA ... standard operating procedures. * Line clearance accuracy * Autonomous maintenance completion ...

Press Operator 3rd Shift

Bardstown, KY

$14.50 - $19/hr

Press Operator We are AUTOKINITON (pronounced auto-ken-i- TAHN ) AUTOKINITON is a Michigan-based ... apprenticeship. AUTOKINITON makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and ...

Press Operator 2nd Shift

Bardstown, KY ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Press Operator We are AUTOKINITON (pronounced auto-ken-i-TAHN) AUTOKINITON is a Michigan-based ... apprenticeship. AUTOKINITON makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and ...

Press Operator 3rd Shift

Bardstown, KY ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19/hr

Press Operator We are AUTOKINITON (pronounced auto-ken-i-TAHN) AUTOKINITON is a Michigan-based ... apprenticeship. AUTOKINITON makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Apprentice Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Kentucky is $17.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $18.99 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 Kentucky? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Kentucky as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,436 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
HVAC Technician

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 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.
Now expanding into HVAC, we're seeking skilled Technicians to join our family-oriented team and deliver top-tier heating and cooling services.
Job Description
As an HVAC Technician you will be required to perform all types of HVAC service work in commercial, residential, and healthcare environments. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:
  • Installing, maintaining, or repairing new and old heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems
  • Troubleshooting, testing, and maintenance existing HVAC systems to ensure they are working effectively and efficiently
  • Testing wiring, duct, and coolant systems
  • Receiving and completing work orders
  • Reading blueprints, drawings, schematics, and other reference material
  • Training apprentices
  • Operating tools and equipment according to company and OSHA safety procedures
  • Working in commercial, residential, and healthcare environments

Qualifications
  • STATE Journeyman's license is required.
  • Must be able to work with little or no supervision
  • Willingness to travel outside of Lexington to perform work as needed
  • Good customer relation and communication skills
  • Knowledge of good safety practices such as NFPA 70E, lock out/tag out, PPE, etc.
  • Eagerness to work collaboratively as part of a larger team
  • Valid driver's license
  • Own your own hand tools
  • Proficiency with NEC and local codes
  • Must be able to pass criminal background check and drug screening

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 include:
  • 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: hiring@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