ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Apprentice Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Mr. Rooter

Plumbing Apprentice

Hebron, IN · On-site

The Plumbing Apprentice is key member of our team, performing service work on plumbing systems in ... All independently owned and operated franchised businesses operate under the service brands' marks ...

Mr. Rooter

Plumbing Apprentice

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

The Plumbing Apprentice is key member of our team, performing service work on plumbing systems in ... All independently owned and operated franchised businesses operate under the service brands' marks ...

IBM

Cybersecurity Analyst Apprentice

Chicago, IL · On-site

Introduction As an apprentice, you'll join with other apprentices in a local cohort. You'll go ... Operating Systems like Windows, Linux * General networking and infrastructure fundamentals ...

1-800-Plumber

Apprentice / Helper

Naperville, IL · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

We are looking for a motivated Helper / Apprentice that enjoys teamwork and learning new things ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

New

Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc.

Maintenance Apprentice

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

What this job involves Embark on a rewarding career path with JLL as a Maintenance Apprentice. This ... This position operates under the Operating Engineers Local 399 collective bargaining agreement.

JLL

Maintenance Apprentice

Chicago, IL

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

What this job involves Embark on a rewarding career path with JLL as a Maintenance Apprentice. This ... This position operates under the Operating Engineers Local 399 collective bargaining agreement.

Surface Experts

Apprentice

Lincolnwood, IL · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Problem-solve repairs with creativity Surface Experts of Chicago North is a locally owned, owner-operated business, not a corporate job where you're just a number. You'll work directly alongside the ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Apprentice Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$20

$30

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Chicago, IL is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $22.55 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:

Apprentice Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,250 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Service Apprentice/Trainee - Chicago

DMG MORI USA, INC

Hoffman Estates, IL • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Title: Service Engineer Apprentice

Reports to: Regional Service Manager

Location: Central Region - Chicago

Hours: Monday through Friday, Core Business Hours

Classification: Non-Exempt

Salary Range: $55,000

Travel: 75%

Employment is conditioned on DMG MORI's ability to obtain and maintain any necessary export licensing.

Service Apprentice will participate in training and development where the incumbent learns to repair, install and move all DMG MORI machines.

Essential Job Functions:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Responsibilities include up to and not limited to:

  • Complete all Classroom, factory training and online classes, and pass with 80% or higher scores.
  • Shadow Service Engineers on service calls, which require traveling with the Service Engineer to customer sites.
  • Learning through observation, while assisting Service Engineers on the call.
  • Must hold a current passport and able to travel internationally for periods of time to attend training
  • Progression in the apprentice program is competency based, participants are enrolled for 2 years before they receive certification and promotion to Service Engineer.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Demonstrates mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, or electronic aptitude.
  • Experience in CNC manufacturing, maintenance, a related field, a journeyman certificate and/or experience in machine/manufacturing maintenance or related field - such as military maintenance training and experience preferred.
  • Analytical/problem solving abilities.
  • High interpersonal and social skills required to successfully complete assignments in stressful situations.
  • Ability to communicate professionally and create positive relationships with customers.
  • Verbal skills to effectively communicate varying levels of internal technical staff and customers.
  • Time management skills to plan work and travel schedules to minimize downtime/nonproductive time.
  • Adaptability to abrupt changes in work schedule and travel arrangements
  • Proven written skills and discipline to complete required technical documents and Reports in a timely fashion.
  • Ability to travel domestic and/or internationally to visit customer locations and/or trade shows.
  • Ability to follow complex written and verbal instructions correctly.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Work Environment:

Exposure to manufacturing/machining environments which may present possible hazards such as noise, electricity, chemicals, heavy equipment, and other automated and manual machinery. General office environment experienced at DMG MORI office.

Physical Demands:

Frequent: Travel, operating a vehicle, sitting, standing, walking, bending, squatting, stooping, and reaching. Pushing, pulling, and lifting objects. Repetitive foot, leg, hand, arm, shoulder, and torso movements.

Periodic: Operating power equipment, sitting at desk, utilizing computers and phones.

Occasional: Lifting or moving up to 50lbs.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform per-employment substance abuse screening.