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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Nordson Corporation

CNC Machinist |||

East Providence, RI

$20.75 - $28.25/hr

High school diploma or GED * 5 or more years of experience with operating production/machining ... Completed trade school or an apprenticeship in machining * CNC lathe and milling experience * Multi ...

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Rigger

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

Experience operating Crawler Crane * Vocational, Technical and Community Colleges or Apprentice programs * Understanding of basic crane hand signals * Experience working in the construction ...

Brownhealth

HVAC MECHANIC

Providence, RI · On-site

$38.18 - $47.46/hr

... Operators License, and the State of Rhode Island Refrigeration Journeyman License.EXPERIENCE:Completion of three years accredited Apprenticeship HVAC Program.SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: None Pay ...

Brown University Health

HVAC MECHANIC

Providence, RI

$38.18 - $47.46/hr

... Refrigeration Operators License, and the State of Rhode Island Refrigeration Journeyman License. EXPERIENCE: Completion of three years accredited Apprenticeship HVAC Program. SUPERVISORY ...

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Rigger

North Kingstown, RI

$23.25 - $30/hr

Experience operating Crawler Crane * Vocational, Technical and Community Colleges or Apprentice programs * Understanding of basic crane hand signals * Experience working in the construction ...

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Rigger

North Kingstown, RI

$23.25 - $30/hr

Experience operating Crawler Crane * Vocational, Technical and Community Colleges or Apprentice programs * Understanding of basic crane hand signals * Experience working in the construction ...

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Rigger

North Kingstown, RI · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

Experience operating Crawler Crane * Vocational, Technical and Community Colleges or Apprentice programs * Understanding of basic crane hand signals * Experience working in the construction ...

Sysco

Meat Packer

Newport, RI

$10 - $48/hr

Tasks would include boxing and scanning * Assist machine operators in running machines and orders through the machine properly (apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes ...

Sysco

Poultry Packer

Newport, RI

$10 - $48/hr

Tasks would include boxing and scanning * Assist machine operators in running machines and orders through the machine properly (apprentice type situation) Skills * Ability to adjust to sudden changes ...

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All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Rhode Island

Apprentice Operator information

See Rhode Island salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Rhode Island are:
Apprentice Operator jobs near you
CNC -Machinist

CNC -Machinist

General Dynamics Electric Boat

North Kingstown, RI • On-site

$19.75 - $27.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

Do you have programming experience or training-CNC/G-Codes, experience with milling/lathes, have strong  mathematical skills.....then this is the position for you!!!!

Join our team, the nation's premier designer and builder of nuclear powered submarines.

Duties include but are not limited to:

  • Set up, program editing, and operation of CNC milling and turning centers
  • Requires the verification of parts and parts configuration to plan requirements using various high tolerance precision measuring tools
  • Must have the ability to read and interpret mechanical detail and assembly drawings, including GD&T, weld- joint symbols, and NDT requirements

    Benefits:

    • Medical, Dental, Vision
    • Prescription Coverage
    • HSA
    • Health and Wellness Programs
    • 401K
    • Commuter/Van Services
    • Paid Vacation and holidays
    • Paid training
    • Advancement Opportunities

    Relocation Assistance provided to qualified candidates.

    This position is located at our Quonset Point facility in North Kingstown, RI location.


    Required:

    • High school diploma or equivalent OR a minimum of 2 years relevant technical experience

    • Machining experience or relevant formal training 
    • Ability to interpret technical manuals, shipyard procedures, test documents, blueprints, diagrams, and perform basic layout functions
    • Available to work all shifts 
    • Individuals are required to possess their own basic hand tools

    Preferred:

    • Experience including setup, operating, with vertical and/or horizontal turning/lathes/mills 
    • Strong mathematical skills 
    • Mazak experience 
    • Vocational, Technical, Community Colleges or Apprentice programs
    • Machine technology educational program 
    • Shipbuilding/Marine Advanced Manufacturing Institute (SAMI) program completion
    • Military

    • Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
    • Self-starter with good problem solving skills
    • Ability to work in a collaborative and team environment to meet organizational goals

    Climbing, Crawling, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
    Acids or Alkalis, Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily, Wet

    What General Dynamics Electric Boat employees say

    Pay

    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

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