1

Apprentice Operator Jobs in Fort Collins, CO (NOW HIRING)

The Apprentice Lineman, with supervision, performs construction and maintenance of the electric ... Experience operating mechanical and electrical tools is preferred. We are proud to offer a ...

Apprentice Sign Installer

Windsor, CO · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

Operating and maintaining the tools and equipment in accordance with safety protocols. * A sound understanding of the applicable installation methods, materials, and safety measures. * The ability to ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Apprentice Operator information

See Fort Collins, CO salary details

$13

$19

$29

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Fort Collins, CO is $19.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $21.63 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 Fort Collins, CO?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Fort Collins, CO are:

What cities near Fort Collins, CO are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs?

Cities near Fort Collins, CO with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Operator job openings in Fort Collins, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,525 per year, or $20 per hour.

Apprentice/Journey Equipment Operator (DOQ)

Larimer County

Loveland, CO

$28.84 - $38.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Overview The Larimer County Road & Bridge Department is looking for Apprentice/Journey Equipment Operators to join our team. At the Larimer County Road & Bridge Department, we are responsible for the operation and maintenance of 419 centerline miles of non-paved roads, 384 centerline miles of paved roads, and 101 miles of subdivision roads in Larimer County. An Apprentice Operator must meet the minimum requirements of a Journey Operator within two years of employment.

These positions are considered essential employees, filling a snow and ice removal position during inclement winter weather. When a local declaration of emergency or disaster is declared by the Board of Commissioners, all Larimer County employees may be required to work as a Disaster Service Worker. The typical schedule for this position is 7am-3:30pm Monday to Friday in the Winter and 7am-5:30pm Monday to Thursday in the Summer, with a 24 hour/365 day nonrestrictive call back.

To learn more about what we do, visit www.larimer.gov/roads. Responsibilities What you'll be doing: Ensuring all work meets departmental expectations. Operating heavy construction equipment as assigned

Plowing snow and participates in snow and ice control activities; is a critical member of our snow removal operations. Performing physical labor for extended periods of time outdoors in all weather conditions, day or night, including activities and physical demands requiring strength to lift, carry, push, pull, and otherwise move objects of up to 50 pounds on a regular basis. To view the full job description, visit- https://www.larimer.gov/hr/careers/job-descriptions#/app/detail/Equipment_Operator_Apprentice & https://www.larimer.gov/hr/careers/job-descriptions#/app/detail/Equipment_Operator_Journey

What we're looking for: Have knowledge of street/highway maintenance, repair, construction, and safe work zone practices. Perform maintenance and construction of paved roads. Operate heavy construction equipment.

Work independently in the absence of supervision. Demonstrate effective interpersonal communication skills. Read and comprehend department and County rules, regulations, policies, and standard operating procedures.

Use Larimer County-approved computer programs, as needed. Qualifications All candidates will be screened for the following required minimum qualifications. Any candidate who does not meet all of the qualifications listed as required will be eliminated from the process.

Depending on qualifications, this position may hire as an Apprentice Equipment Operator or a Journey Equipment Operator. Apprentice Equipment Operator One (1) year of work experience required. May be achieved with experience in any industry, not specific to construction or road maintenance.

Possession of, and ability to maintain, a Class "B" or a Class 'A' commercial driver license (CDL) without the following restrictions: 'L' -air brake restriction, 'O' -no/trctr/trlr restriction(s), "E" -no manual transmission, "X"-no cargo in CMV tank vehicle or "Z" - no full air brake equipped CMV required. Ability to obtain 'N' - tank endorsement by date of hire required. Ability to obtain an 'X' haz-mat/tanker endorsement within 6 months of hire or within six (6) months of turning 21 years old required.

Operation of a vehicle requiring a class 'A' or 'B' commercial driver license (CDL), required. Ability to obtain a Colorado Flaggers Certification within six (6) months of employment required. Ability to qualify as a Journey Operator within 2 years of hire required.

Journey Equipment Operator One (1) year of experience working, operating equipment, or driving a CDL vehicle in the following construction industries: Civil Construction, Road Maintenance/Construction,Earthwork, or Underground Utilities required. Possession of, and ability to maintain, a Class "A" commercial driver license (CDL) without the following restrictions: 'L' -air brakes restriction, 'O' -no/Trctr/Trlr restriction(s), "E" - no manual transmission, "X"- no cargo in CMV tank vehicle or "Z" - no full air brake equipped CMV required. Ability to obtain 'N' - tank endorsement by date of hire, required.

Ability to obtain an 'X' haz-mat/tanker endorsement within six (6) months of employment or within six (6) months of turning 21 years old required. Operation of a vehicle requiring a Class 'A' or 'B' commercial driver license (CDL) required. Ability to obtain a Colorado Flagger's Certification within six (6) months of employment required.

Benefits Here's what Larimer County offers for all Regular, Limited Term, and Appointed positions: Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits FSA or HSA (depending on the medical plan) Short- and Long-Term Disability Employee Assistance Program Basic Life/AD&D Insurance Accident and Critical Illness Insurance Retirement Plan 401(a) with employer match 457(b) Deferred Compensation Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays Want to dive into the details. Check out Larimer County's Benefits. https://www.larimer.gov/hr/benefits Supplemental Information Please Note An Apprentice Operator must meet the minimum requirements of a Journey Operator within two years of employment

These positions are considered essential employees, filling a snow and ice removal position during inclement winter weather. When a local declaration of emergency or disaster is declared by the Board of Commissioners, all Larimer County employees may be required to work as a Disaster Service Worker. Other Information An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of required pre-employment checks or testing.

All application components must be submitted by 11:59 PM MT on the closing date listed. Larimer County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment in all employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity or expression, and sexual orientation), national origin, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, military status, or any other characteristic protected by law or regulation.