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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Fireplace & Chimney Autho

Air Duct Cleaner Apprentice

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$14 - $18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Apprentice, you will be responsible for helping ensure that our clients' air ducts are clean ... HVAC systems Operating various tools and equipment, including power drills, ladders, and ...

CBRE

RME Operator

Markham, IL · On-site

$48K/yr

The RME Operator role is a structured entry point into the RME organization designed for ... Apprenticeship (MRA) program. As automation continues to grow across our sites, technical roles ...

AccorHotel

Engineer Apprentice

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25/hr

Must be a current member of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 399 Engineer Apprenticeship program * Must be enrolled in apprenticeship program through IUOE Local 399 * Must ...

AccorHotel

Engineer Apprentice

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25/hr

Must be a current member of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 399 Engineer Apprenticeship program * Must be enrolled in apprenticeship program through IUOE Local 399 * Must ...

Alsip MiniMill

Boiler Operator / Stationary Engineer

Alsip, IL · On-site

$48.54/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Powerhouse systems are maintained by our Steam Plant Operators, which give our employees the ... Completion of 2-year apprentice program preferred. 4 + years at Journeyman level without an ...

SWISSOTEL

Engineer Apprentice

Chicago, IL

Must be a current member of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 399 Engineer Apprenticeship program * Must be enrolled in apprenticeship program through IUOE Local 399 * Must ...

Culligan

Plumber Apprentice

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This location is independently owned and operated. Your application will go directly to the owner, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this location. All inquiries about ...

Prime Healthcare

Plant Operator I

Olympia Fields, IL

$21 - $31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operator apprenticeship preferred. * Able to troubleshoot, read schematics, and/or blueprints. * Valid state driver's license. * High School Diploma or equivalent required. Olympia Fields Hospital ...

Olympia Fields Hospital

Plant Operator I

Olympia Fields, IL

$21 - $31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operator apprenticeship preferred. * Able to troubleshoot, read schematics, and/or blueprints. * Valid state driver's license. * High School Diploma or equivalent required. Pay Transparency Olympia ...

Olympia Fields Hospital

Plant Operator I

Olympia Fields, IL · On-site

$21 - $31/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operator apprenticeship preferred. * Able to troubleshoot, read schematics, and/or blueprints. * Valid state driver's license. * High School Diploma or equivalent required. Pay Transparency Olympia ...

Levy

Crane Operator, IFS

Chesterton, IN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

The Crane Operator will operate a power-driven crane equipped with a magnet, perform visual ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

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Showing results 41-60

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.

Air Duct Cleaner Apprentice

Fireplace & Chimney Autho

Elmhurst, IL • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 hours ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Quality Air Duct Cleaning in Elmhurst, Illinois is seeking an Air Duct Cleaner Apprentice to join our team at the ORIGINAL air duct cleaning company in the Chicagoland. As an Apprentice, you will be responsible for helping ensure that our clients’ air ducts are clean, safe, and functioning efficiently. You will be working alongside experienced professionals, learning the skills and techniques required to become a successful air duct cleaner & run your own route.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Cleaning air ducts, dryer vents, and HVAC systems
  • Inspecting air ducts for blockages, leaks, and other issues
  • Performing repairs and maintenance on air ducts and HVAC systems
  • Operating various tools and equipment, including power drills, ladders, and scaffolding
  • Maintaining a clean and safe work environment

In addition to the above responsibilities, the Apprentice will also be responsible for:
  • Keeping accurate records of work performed
  • Communicating with customers in a professional and courteous manner
  • Providing estimates for repair and maintenance work
  • Assisting with the marketing and promotion of our services
  • Maintaining inventory of tools and equipment

Qualified candidates should:
  • Be 18 years of age or older. (required)
  • Be comfortable working at heights
  • Be able to lift 50 lbs.
  • Have consistent attendance.
  • Be able to pass a background check.
  • Have strong people skills.
  • Be prompt, timely, and have reliable transportation to and from work.
  • Have a strong value for work safely.
  • Must have a valid IL drivers license.

As an Air Duct Cleaner Apprentice, you will receive on-the-job training and guidance from experienced professionals. You will have the opportunity to learn about all aspects of air duct cleaning and HVAC maintenance. We are looking for someone who is passionate about learning this important trade and excited to join our team.