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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

PeopleShare

Equipment Operator

Hamburg, PA

$19 - $21/hr

Join a growing leader in waste and recycling services with opportunities for candidates at all experience levels, from Apprentice Operators to Lead Operators. In these hands-on roles, you'll operate ...

New

A&E Paper Company

Boiler Operator Apprentice

Tyrone, PA · On-site

Boiler Operator Job Summary: Report to department supervisor all operating problems and equipment malfunctions. Responsibilities: * Maintain safe, reliable operation of all Boiler House equipment to ...

1-Tom-Plumber

Plumber Apprentice

Johnstown, PA · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

As a 1-Tom-Plumber apprentice, you will train under each of our plumbers. This will provide you ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

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All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania

Apprentice Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$13

$20

$29

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Pennsylvania is $20.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $21.92 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Pennsylvania?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:

Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,052 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Equipment Operator

PeopleShare

Hamburg, PA

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Join a growing leader in waste and recycling services with opportunities for candidates at all experience levels, from Apprentice Operators to Lead Operators. In these hands-on roles, you'll operate a variety of equipment including forklifts, balers, skid steers, and loaders while helping keep recycling operations running safely and efficiently. If you're looking for a stable career with competitive pay, skill development, and clear advancement opportunities, this is an excellent opportunity to grow with an industry-leading organization.

Equipment Operator Job Details:
  • Schedule: 6am - 6pm, Opportunities for Flexible schedule
    • Monday - Thursday
    • Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday
    • Wednesday - Saturday
  • Pay Rate: $19-$21 p/hour depending on position

Selling Points about Equipment Operator:
  • Temp to hire benefits such as health and 401K
  • Day shift position
  • Room for growth within the company

Equipment Operator Job Description:
Apprentice Operator
  • Learn the recycling process and company safety standards.
  • Complete required training to safely operate a forklift and recycling baler.
  • Develop a strong understanding of company policies, procedures, and core values.
Operator I
  • Safely operate forklifts and recycling balers while following all safety protocols.
  • Perform pre-operation inspections and complete equipment checklists.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of lockout/tagout procedures and show readiness to learn additional equipment.
Operator II
  • Build strong communication skills with customers and team members.
  • Identify acceptable and unacceptable recyclable materials.
  • Operate at least three pieces of equipment, such as a baler, forklift, skid steer, or loader/excavator.
  • Work toward obtaining a hoisting license and expanding equipment qualifications.
Lead Operator
  • Serve as a subject matter expert on recycling operations and material identification.
  • Operate all recycling facility equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Lead, train, and mentor other operators while helping develop team members.
  • Communicate effectively with customers, coworkers, and management.
  • Maintain required state hoisting licenses (2A and 1C) and assist with career development initiatives.

Equipment Operator Job Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Previous Equipment Handling Experience
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs
  • Read and Write in English

PeopleShare is the leading Staffing Agency in the region and has temporary to hire and permanent jobs across 8 states. Our openings include receptionist, data entry, customer service, collections, office managers, call center, administrative assistant, accounts payable clerk, accounts receivable clerk, file clerk, warehouse, assembly, production, pickers, packers, forklift, machine operators, and maintenance mechanics.
PeopleShare provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category or class under federal, state, and/or local laws. This policy applies to all locations and all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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About PeopleShare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Whether you’re a job seeker or a hiring manager, we have the experience, expertise and resources to provide hiring solutions that work for you. We specialize in temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire staffing roles in the clerical, financial and light industrial sectors. PeopleShare connects employers and temporary employees who hit the ground running on day one.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Collegeville, PA, US

Year founded

2005

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