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Apprentice Jobs in Sumter, SC (NOW HIRING)

West Fraser

Operating Apprentice 1

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing ...

West Fraser

Operating Apprentice 1

Columbia, SC

$16.50 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing ...

West Fraser

Operating Apprentice 1

Columbia, SC

$16.50 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing ...

West Fraser

Operating Apprentice 1

Columbia, SC

$16.50 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing ...

West Fraser

Operating Apprentice 1

Columbia, SC

$16.50 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing ...

West Fraser

Operating Apprentice 1

Columbia, SC

$16.50 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing ...

West Fraser

Operating Apprentice 1

Columbia, SC

$16.50 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing ...

West Fraser

Operating Apprentice 1

Columbia, SC

$16.50 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing ...

West Fraser

Operating Apprentice 1

Columbia, SC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing ...

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All JobsApprentice JobsApprentice Jobs in Sumter, SC

Apprentice information

See Sumter, SC salary details

$10

$19

$33

How much do apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice in Sumter, SC is $19.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice?

An apprentice is a person who is learning a trade or skill through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Apprenticeships are structured programs that allow individuals to earn while they learn, typically under the supervision of experienced professionals. These programs are common in skilled trades like construction, electrical work, and plumbing, but are also found in fields such as healthcare and information technology. Apprenticeships usually last from one to four years, after which the apprentice becomes a fully qualified worker in their chosen field.

What kinds of support or mentorship can an apprentice expect during their training period?

As an apprentice, you will typically be paired with an experienced mentor or supervisor who provides hands-on guidance, answers questions, and helps you develop essential skills in your chosen trade or field. Many apprenticeship programs also include regular check-ins, progress reviews, and classroom-based learning to supplement on-the-job experience. This structured support system is designed to help apprentices gradually take on more responsibility, build confidence, and address challenges as they arise, ensuring a smooth transition into a full-time professional role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice, you need a basic educational background, a willingness to learn, and a genuine interest in the specific trade or industry. Familiarity with basic tools, safety protocols, and sometimes entry-level certifications or coursework are typically required. Strong communication, reliability, and a positive attitude help apprentices stand out in the workplace. These skills and qualities are essential for learning effectively, ensuring safety, and building a solid foundation for career advancement.

What is the difference between Apprentice vs Journeyman?

AspectApprenticeJourneyman
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; may need enrollment in a training programCompleted apprenticeship; often holds a license or certification
Work EnvironmentLearning phase, supervised, entry-level tasksSkilled worker, independent, performs complex tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in trades like construction, electrical, plumbingUsed after apprenticeship completion, in similar industries

The main difference between an Apprentice and a Journeyman is experience and skill level. An Apprentice is in training, gaining foundational skills under supervision, while a Journeyman has completed training and can work independently on complex tasks. Both roles are essential in trades like construction and electrical work, with the Journeyman representing a higher level of proficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice jobs in Sumter, SC? For Apprentice jobs in Sumter, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice jobs in Sumter, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice jobs in Sumter, SC are:
What cities near Sumter, SC are hiring for Apprentice jobs? Cities near Sumter, SC with the most Apprentice job openings:
Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice job openings in Sumter, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 88% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,793 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Operating Apprentice 1

Operating Apprentice 1

West Fraser

Columbia, SC • On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

West Fraser rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies

Job description

This is an entry level position that is designed to train you on the basic operation in the planer or sawmill. You will learn a variety of machines and tasks. The majority of your time is standing and walking. This includes frequently picking up pieces of board from table height or the floor. These boards weigh on average 5 - 35 lbs., occasionally more. The job involves clean-up activities including sweeping, shoveling and lifting. You will eventually be assigned to a specific area and will be trained to perform the operator's job in that area, to assist and “break-out” the operator. There may be some heavy lifting requirements on occasions. Once certified on a machine you will qualify for a pay increase.

  • Minimal sitting
  • Occasional repetitive hand movements.
  • Frequent bending, walking,
  • Frequent pushing, pulling, reaching.
  • Occasional twisting, climbing, stooping, kneeling
  • Occasional crawling or squatting
  • Sweeping/shoveling
  • Bending, pushing, lifting (up to 50 lbs)
  • Wood dust below the PEL
  • Occasional skin exposure to oil/grease
  • Temperature extremes (the work area is typically inside but not centrally heated or cooled. A local heater/ fan is provided)
  • Noise –hearing protection is required.
  • >1%: Cramped positions
  • 65 - 85%: Standing
  • 5% Sitting
  • 65 - 80% Walking
  • 5% Climbing (stairs/ladders)
  • 35 - 45% Extended reach forward or overhead, push/pull/twist, grasp/handle, bend/stoop/squat,
  • 5% fine hand dexterity,
  • 5-15% repetitive motion operating a control console
  • 5-15 pounds: Frequent
  • 16-30 lbs: Moderate
  • 31-45 lbs: Occasional
  • Greater than 46 lbs.: Minimal

Our highly competitive compensation package and outstanding benefits include:

Benefits starting Day 1
Competitive starting pay
On-the-job training and
A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within
Medical
Dental
Vision

401k with company match
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
Paid vacations and holidays
Safety is one of West Fraser's core values and our employees can expect a challenging, stable work environment with career development opportunities.

Apply:

If you are ready to build your career in a company that thrives on growth, internal promotions, training, safe work environment, rewarding work, challenge, and opportunity, come build your career with us at West Fraser: www.westfraser.com/jobs

We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please apply through our online application process. Be sure to attach your resume to your online profile as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please.

West Fraser is a diversified wood products company producing lumber, OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and energy with over 60 facilities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. We are the largest lumber producer in North America, a leading global manufacturer of wood-based panels, and the world's largest producer of oriented strand board (OSB). We are a growing company, believe strongly in promoting from within, and pride ourselves on providing a challenging environment with continuous development. The successful candidate should be interested in future growth opportunities within the company.

West Fraser is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D & Drug-Free Workplace

EducationRequired
  • GED or better

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What West Fraser employees say

Pay

Benefits

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About West Fraser

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

West Fraser is a well-established wood products company with a diverse portfolio of more than 60 facilities across Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. As a leader in sustainable forestry practices and high-efficiency wood product manufacturing, we have gained recognition for our commitment to excellence. Our core business involves producing lumber, engineered wood, and various other products, including pulp, newsprint, and renewable energy. With a focus on modern manufacturing facilities and product innovation, we are shaping a promising future.

Industry

Forestry

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Vancouver, BC, CA

Social media

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