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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Rio Rico, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Estimator I

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ... From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ... From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

Estimator I

Tucson, AZ ยท On-site

... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ... From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

Ironworker Journeyman

Patagonia, AZ

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ... From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

Ironworker Journeyman

Patagonia, AZ ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ... From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ... From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

Ironworker Journeyman

Patagonia, AZ ยท On-site

$20.75 - $27.25/hr

... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ... From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ... From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

... as operating a vehicle, operating equipment, operating machinery or power tools, repairing ... From apprentices to managers, we're passionate about the details and deliberate in everything we do.

... Modigent operating company, you will install, troubleshoot, repair, maintain, and optimize ... High school diploma or GED required; trade school, HVAC apprenticeship, or equivalent technical ...

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Showing results 1-20

Apprentice Operator information

See Rio Rico, AZ salary details

$12

$17

$26

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Rio Rico, AZ is $17.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 cities near Rio Rico, AZ are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs? Cities near Rio Rico, AZ with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:
Grade Checker -TUCSON

Grade Checker -TUCSON

Rummel Construction, Inc.

Tucson, AZ โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Construction Grade Checker -PHOENIX METRO AREA
ABOUT RUMMEL CONSTRUCTION, INC.
Rummel Construction, Inc. is a Heavy Civil General Contractor specializing in mass excavation and grading. We are 100% employee-owned, when you work at Rummel Construction, you're not just hiring on at a company, you're an owner of the company! We have been providing earth-moving services to the Southwest, United States since 1996. Unlike other heavy civil contractors, we diversify in a broad range of markets including mining, landfills, golf courses, residential, CMAR/JOC, wind and energy, recreation, flood control, and transportation. With over 400 pieces of equipment and upwards of 75+ jobs on our construction schedule, we aren't like the rest. We are dedicated to delivering safe, innovative solutions to our clients by means of our experienced and committed management team. Rummel goes above and beyond expectations to cultivate a loyal, reliable partnership with its clients.
Our key values include quality, teamwork, service, and attitude. Our foundations for success are not an afterthought; they are simply the summation of the values of the people we have on our team that have contributed to our success. We strongly believe in promoting within and growing our employees. We take pride in our in-house training and apprenticeship programs.
CONSTRUCTION GRADE CHECKER
Rummel Construction, Inc. is seeking experienced Grade Checkers. This is a safety sensitive position that is responsible for setting grade stakes to guide earth moving equipment operators in cut & fill, sloping, excavation, and backfilling work at residential, commercial, heavy civil, highway, and energy sites. Experience in the use of measuring instruments and hand tools are necessary. They must also have training in marking and reading survey stakes to determine grade specifications. A qualified Grade Checker must have the ability to observe, direct, and control equipment excavating activities to conform to stake references and communicate with equipment operators, supervision and management. This role will support projects throughout the state of Arizona and MAY REQUIRE OUT OF STATE TRAVEL.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE
  • Familiar with heavy equipment
  • 1+ years experience performing grade checking, substantial walking, bending, stopping, lifting, etc
  • Experience with Trimble GPS Rover System is a plus
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

WHY WORK FOR RUMMEL?
We offer an excellent work environment including a competitive salary, subsidized health insurance, paid-time off, paid holidays, 401k plan, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and voluntary dental and supplemental benefits. Rummel Construction is 100% employee owned.
Rummel Construction, Inc. is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate against employees or applicants based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. This commitment applies to all employment practices, including hiring, promotion, transfer, recruitment, compensation, training, and termination.
If you need accommodations due to a disability, please contact Human Resources at 480-222-9922. Our EEO Officer and HR team are available to address any questions or concerns regarding this policy.