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Apprentice Operator Jobs in Rochester, WA (NOW HIRING)

McCallum Rock Drilling

Rock Drill Apprentice

Chehalis, WA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Rock Drill Apprentice will spend most of their time learning how to safely and productively ... This is a great opportunity for someone that is eager to pursue a career operating heavy equipment.

McCallum Rock Drilling

Rock Drill Apprentice

Chehalis, WA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Rock Drill Apprentice will spend most of their time learning how to safely and productively ... This is a great opportunity for someone that is eager to pursue a career operating heavy equipment.

McCallum Rock Drilling

Rock Drill Apprentice

Chehalis, WA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Rock Drill Apprentice will spend most of their time learning how to safely and productively ... This is a great opportunity for someone that is eager to pursue a career operating heavy equipment.

Puget Collision

Body Tech Apprentice

Olympia, WA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Auto Body Collision Repair Technician Apprentice The Body Technician Apprentice is an in-training ... Perform all assigned responsibilities according to the Company Standard Operating Procedures.

Posted today

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All JobsApprentice Operator JobsApprentice Operator Jobs in Rochester, WA

Apprentice Operator information

See Rochester, WA salary details

$14

$21

$30

How much do apprentice operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice operator in Rochester, WA is $21.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $22.84 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 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 cities near Rochester, WA are hiring for Apprentice Operator jobs?

Cities near Rochester, WA with the most Apprentice Operator job openings:

Apprentice Operator jobs near you

Rock Drill Apprentice

McCallum Rock Drilling

Chehalis, WA • On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Join our team and help build the infrastructure of our community! This is a great entry-level opportunity for those interested in construction and skilled trades. We offer on-the-job training and opportunities for career advancement as well as great benefits and a fun team atmosphere. Every day is spent in the great outdoors and no two job sites are the same. The ideal candidate has humility and the willingness to learn, and wants to be part of a team to accomplish things bigger than they could on their own.


McCallum Rock Drilling (MRD) is a rock drilling and blasting contractor based out of Chehalis, WA, that has been in business since 1988. MRD operates in commercial quarries, timberlands and construction sites throughout the Western US.


We are hiring for a Rock Drill Apprentice to join our team. A Rock Drill Apprentice will spend most of their time learning how to safely and productively operate a rock drill machine. An apprentice will typically spend the first 3-6 months training on a stand beside machine or a cab machine with an experienced operator. This is a great opportunity for someone that is eager to pursue a career operating heavy equipment. The ideal candidate will be physically fit and willing to work in a fast-paced environment. Must be willing to travel and stay out of town when needed. If you have a great attitude, love to work hard, and are eager to build a career operating equipment, send us a resume today!


Minimum skills and qualifications include: 

  • Valid driver's license with proof of insurance 
  • Able to pass pre-employment drug test 
  • Clean driving record (no more than three moving violations within the last three years)
  • Clean background (no felonies)
  • Reliable transportation to our base shop in Chehalis, WA
  • Must have positive attitude and strong work ethic 
  • Must be a team player 
  • At least 1-3 years of prior construction and/or mining experience
  • At least one year of operating experience strongly desired 
  • Ability to work an occasional Saturday 
  • Must currently reside within 30 minutes of Chehalis shop 


Benefits include: 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage (100% paid for the employee)
  • 401k Option (4% match)
  • PTO (accrual based)
  • Paid Holidays 
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program 
  • Career Advancement Opportunities 
  • 40-50+ hours/week expected during spring and summer 
  • Hourly Rate: $21.00 - $25.00