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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

MP Nexlevel

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Maple Lake, MN

$24 - $30/hr

Position Title: Directional Bore Operator / Locator Reports To : Project Manager Summary of ... Apprenticeship Program, and a Commercial Driver's License obtainment program. All qualified ...

Forward Traffic & Marking

Rumble Operator

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$47.68/hr

High school diploma, equivalent, or acceptance into the MN IUOE Local 49 Apprenticeship Program ... Experience operating rumble strip milling or heavy equipment preferred * Mechanical aptitude and ...

MP

DB OPERATOR/DRILL LOCATOR

Maple Lake, MN · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Position Title: Directional Bore Operator / Locator Reports To : Project Manager Summary of ... Apprenticeship Program, and a Commercial Driver's License obtainment program. All qualified ...

Forward Traffic & Marking

Rumble Operator

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$16.75 - $22.75/hr

High school diploma, equivalent, or acceptance into the MN IUOE Local 49 Apprenticeship Program ... Experience operating rumble strip milling or heavy equipment preferred * Mechanical aptitude and ...

Fehn Companies, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Albertville, MN · On-site

$45.61/hr

The pay range for this position is based on the 49-union wage scale, ranging from Apprentice level ... Individuals must have experience with heavy equipment operating safely and efficiently. The ...

Up Closets

Apprentice Closet Installer

MN · On-site

$25/hr

This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchisee, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this franchisee.

ConGlobal

Terminal Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$25.66/hr

Apprentice $25.66/hour Status: Full-Time | Immediate Hire Schedule: Open availability required ... As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ...

ConGlobal

Terminal Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$25.66/hr

Apprentice $25.66/hour Status: Full-Time | Immediate Hire Schedule: Open availability required ... As an Intermodal Equipment Operator (also known as a Terminal Operator), you'll play a critical ...

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All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Apprentice Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Minnesota is $19.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $21.44 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 Minnesota? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:
Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,087 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Heavy Equipment Operator

Heavy Equipment Operator

Landwehr Construction, Inc.

Saint Cloud, MN

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title:Heavy Equipment OperatorExemption Status:UnionAuthorization/Supervision:Superintendent/Foreman

Job Specifications

Education:High School Diploma or equivalent required.Experience:3+years of construction-related experience in the civil construction industry preferred. Willing to train apprentice level operators.Objective:Heavy Equipment Operators for Heavy-Civil construction projects focusing on earthwork, GPS machine control, underground utilities, energy-related and demolition work.


Nature and Scope

Company Environment: Since 1895, Landwehr Construction has built a reputation for outstanding customer service and commitment to excellence. As a turn-key site contractor, we provide comprehensive site solutions including crane & rigging, demolition, environmental remediation, highway heavy, machinery moving, renewable energy, site work & utilities, and wetland specialty. With locations in St. Cloud, MN, and Sioux Falls, SD, our expansive fleet empowers us to tackle any project, regardless of scale or complexity.

Job Environment: This position requires most of the time spent in the field. Travel may be required, at times overnight.

Relationships/Management: The position will interact with all levels of personnel within the company including union and non-union employees, executive leadership team, senior leadership team and other department managers and support personnel.

Essential Functions 

  • Operates heavy equipment to complete tasks at the construction site. Heavy equipment operation includes front end loader, dozer, motor grader, skid loader, backhoe/excavator, off road truck, scraper, roller and/or tractor to move material and equipment.
  • Inspecting equipment before and after use to ensure it's in good working order.
  • Monitoring loads/unloads during use.
  • Communicate with crew using hand signals and 2-way radios.
  • Travels to job sites as needed.
  • Support the crew and perform additional tasks as need to ensure project success.

Skills/Qualifications

  • Places safety as a top priority
  • Must be a team player but work collaboratively with crew.
  • Current OSHA 10 or 30 is a plus.
  • CDL License is a plus.

Landwehr Construction is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Apply