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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Central, SC (NOW HIRING)

GE Aerospace

Machine Operator-Weekend Night Shift

Piedmont, SC · On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Summary The Greenville Machine Operator is a skilled role that involves the manufacturing of ... apprenticeship or certification program * Must be willing to work Weekend Shift * Must successfully ...

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All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Central, SC

Apprentice Operator information

See Central, SC salary details

$11

$17

$25

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Central, SC is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $18.70 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 cities near Central, SC are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs?

Cities near Central, SC with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:

Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Central, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,895 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Plant Operations Apprentice Level I

Oglethorpe Power Corporation

Hartwell, GA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Plant Operations Apprentice Level I

Hartwell, GA, USA

26.50-27.00 per hour

Full Time

Position Summary:

The Plant Operations Apprentice Level I will be introduced to, learn and support safe work practices and skills for the operation and maintenance of a combined cycle energy facility and simple cycle energy facility. Apprentice Level I will provide entry level support in both areas of operations and maintenance. The individual will learn, assist and be mentored on performing operator rounds, troubleshooting, preventive, corrective and predictive maintenance on plant systems/equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable plant operations, as well as learn about the safety, environmental, reliability and corporate policies/procedures for compliance and governmental regulations. Individual will be responsible for working toward completion of all requirements listed in Department of Labor Apprenticeship Program as power-plant operator.

Required Qualifications

Education :

High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Experience :

Entry Level-Experience in skilled trades such as construction, electrical, maintenance, automotive, welding preferred.

Specialized Skills :

  • A strong ability to work in a team environment.
  • The ability to extract, comprehend and develop instructions from technical manuals, journals, and drawings, technical literature, and other job-related material; and to effectively communicate orally and in writing using the English language.
  • The ability to discern the colors red, green, amber and blue as used in troubleshooting electrical diagrams, control system process and in color coding used in electronic and electrical component repairs.
  • The ability to lift weights or twist with a force of up to 75 pounds, as in the removal and replacement of access doors to equipment, turning of valves, and hoisting of material overhead.
  • The ability to work in confined spaces and at heights, as in entering internal areas of the turbine for inspection or repairs during outages, climbing ladders to gain access, working within tight quarters of surrounding piping and conduit to perform troubleshooting functions.

Licenses, Registrations, and/or Certifications :

Valid Driver's License which meets the insurance eligibility requirements under Oglethorpe Power's qualification program.

Percent of travel involved:

10%

Unusual hours required of this position:

Will require scheduled and call out overtime as plant operating and maintenance needs dictate. Production schedules require 24-hour coverage, rotating shift schedules are required.

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