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Apprentice Operator Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

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Apprentice Operator information

See New Mexico salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in New Mexico is $19.55, 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 New Mexico?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in New Mexico are:

What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs?

Cities in New Mexico with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:

Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,654 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Shop Apprentice, Service Maintenance

Carlsbad, NM • On-site

Mesa Power Solutions
See more jobs at Mesa Power Solutionsexternal

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Mesa Natural Gas Solutions LLC is a growth-oriented company, manufacturing and providing superior responsible, reliable, power solutions to industrial markets. We manufacture best-in-class power systems and deliver industry leading service and customer support. We continue to be on the leading edge of generator technology by manufacturing sound attenuated, temperature-controlled generator sets in the United States to operate in any climate, and utilizing the best telemetry putting real time information in the hands of all customers.
Mesa strives to create an environment where all employees feel they are safe, respected, that their contributions are valued, and have equal access to growth and development opportunities. We offer our employees competitive base pay and a 401k plan; paid time off for vacation, holidays, birth or adoption of a child, and bereavement; Health, Dental, and Vision insurance where all employee and dependent's health care premiums are 100% paid for; Employee Assistance Programs; Life insurance, Short and Long term disability insurance, and Critical Health and Accident insurance.
Website: www.mesangs.com
Job Description:
Under general supervision, the shop apprentice performs a variety of light mechanical repair and preventive maintenance and assists Shop Technicians and Mechanics with corrective maintenance on Internal Combustion (IC) engines, natural gas and liquefied petroleum (LP) generators. This is entry level position with opportunities for advancement to a Shop Technician position upon sustained outstanding job performance. Shop Hands perform routine task and as proficiency increases, may perform more difficult assignments as they prove themselves capable.
Essential Duties:
  • Wash units, trucks and other equipment to include cleaning units inside and out.
  • Perform preventive maintenance on pressure washer.
  • Move generator units to and from locations using a forklift.
  • Perform forklift daily, weekly, monthly inspections.
  • Assist the Shop Mechanics in their daily tasks to include but not limited to removing/installing parts, checking Standard Operating Procedures and assisting in routine inspections.
  • Assist other team members in their daily tasks to include but not limited to removing/installing parts, verifying engine specifications, and repair and maintain shop tools/equipment.
  • Ensure the work area and shop are clean and tools put away.
  • Perform light mechanical work on Internal Combustion engines and Natural gas engines and generators.
  • Performs all other job duties as assigned.

Education:
Required:
  • High School or equivalent.

Experience:
Required:
  • None

Preferred:
  • Relevant experience.
  • Honorably discharged service veterans.
  • Forklift experience.

Certifications, Licenses & Registrations:
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a driving record satisfactory to the company and its insurers.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • Possess a positive and energetic self-starter attitude, with excellent drive, ambition and work ethic.
  • Adaptability and ability to work in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment.
  • Possess the ability to be a team player.
  • Ability and willingness to learn new processes and business functions to facilitate the mission.
  • Able to handle frequent interruptions and handle conflict in an effective manner.
  • Able to work independently and ensure tasks are completed with little supervision.

Physical Demands:
  • Sitting
  • Standing
  • Walking or moving throughout facility
  • Talking
  • Seeing (Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus)
  • Hearing
  • Use hands to type, touch, handle, or feel
  • Bending or stooping
  • Squatting or crouching
  • Reaching
  • Kneeling
  • Pushing
  • Pulling
  • Frequently required to stand and reach with arms and hands
  • Occasionally required to walk and climb or balance
  • Regularly lift and/or move up to 25lbs

Working Conditions:
  • General maintenance shop working conditions.
  • Outdoors

Equipment & Software:
  • None

Additional Job Requirements:
  • Willing to consent to and pass a background check and drug screening.
  • Must be able to pass a WorkSTEPS physical.
  • Willing to work Monday-Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM.

Supervisory Responsibility:
None
Number of Direct Reports:
None
Number of Indirect Reports:
None
Mesa Natural Gas Solutions LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, citizenship status, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability or any other legally protected status. EOE/M/F/D/V

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