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Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Press Apprentice

Columbus, OH · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Press Operator Apprentice We are seeking a motivated and dependable Press Operator Apprentice to ... Learn to safely operate and monitor production press equipment. * Assist with machine setup ...

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Coater Apprentice

Vandalia, OH · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

We are hiring immediately for Coater Operator Apprentice! Why Independent Can? At ICC, not only do ... They must also learn how to safely use all equipment on coating line. In order for the apprentice ...

Press Apprentice

Columbus, OH · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a motivated and dependable Press Operator Apprentice to join our ... Learn to safely operate and monitor production press equipment. * Assist with machine setup ...

Operator

Findlay, OH

$30 - $40.02/hr

We are looking for Equipment Operators with experience in heavy highway road construction ... There are apprenticeship opportunities as well! Helms & Sons promotes a safety-first work ...

Operator

Findlay, OH · On-site

$30 - $40.02/hr

We are looking for Equipment Operators with experience in heavy highway road construction ... There are apprenticeship opportunities as well! Helms & Sons promotes a safety-first work ...

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Equipment Operator Apprentice information

What is an equipment operator apprentice?

An Equipment Operator Apprentice is an individual who is learning to operate heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and cranes, under the supervision of experienced operators. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing apprentices to gain practical experience while learning about safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and operational techniques. The goal is to prepare apprentices for a career as a fully qualified equipment operator, often leading to certification or licensing upon completion of the program.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an equipment operator apprentice?

To thrive as an Equipment Operator Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with construction equipment, safety protocols, and potentially certifications like OSHA 10 are commonly required. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and strong communication skills help apprentices excel and work safely on site. These skills and qualities ensure safe equipment usage, efficient operations, and successful progression to more advanced operator roles.

What are some common challenges equipment operator apprentices face during their training period?

Equipment Operator Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering precise control of heavy machinery, understanding safety protocols, and adapting to various job site environments. Balancing hands-on learning with classroom instruction can also be demanding, especially when it comes to retaining technical information and applying it on the job. However, these challenges are typically addressed through mentorship, structured training programs, and gradual increases in responsibility, helping apprentices build confidence and skill over time.

What is the difference between Equipment Operator Apprentice vs Equipment Operator?

AspectEquipment Operator ApprenticeEquipment Operator
CredentialsOften requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training; may need OSHA safety certificationsTypically requires similar certifications and experience, sometimes with additional licensing
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, or industrial settings; supervised training environmentSame environments, often with more independent responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by construction, mining, and heavy equipment companies during training phasesFull-time role in construction, infrastructure, and industrial sectors

The main difference is that Equipment Operator Apprenticeship is a training position designed to develop skills, while Equipment Operators are fully qualified workers responsible for operating heavy machinery independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Ohio are:
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

COATER OPERATOR APPRENTICE

INDEPENDENT CAN COMPANY

Vandalia, OH • On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Independent Can Company rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

SUMMARY: The Coater apprenticeship on the coating line is a two-year program. The coater apprenticeship will be responsible for learning correct procedures for set-up, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting problems on all equipment on the coating line. They must also learn how to safely use all equipment on coating line. In order for the apprentice to remain in the program, they must demonstrate dependability, enthusiasm, cooperation and an ability to perform the duties of the job in an efficient and capable manner. Excessive lateness or absences result in the cancellation of the program. The apprentice must maintain a written log of work performed and other pertinent information. Must be the site leader in living and driving the Company Core Values and High-Performance Work Culture.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Learn the proper use of tools and proper mechanical methods
  • Learn the Company's safety rules and participate in safety audits
  • Learn and understand Lockout/Tagout points for each machine
  • Learn fire protection plan and action (training and supervisory)
  • Learn responsibility for assigned maintenance schedule
  • Learn responsibility for set up and operation of all welded can line equipment
  • Learn work order and production tracking systems
  • Display good housekeeping practices - must keep equipment and area clean and orderly
  • Report mechanical problems
  • Maintain and lubricate equipment
  • Make minor mechanical repairs to keep machinery running until full repair can be implemented
  • Be receptive to instructions, take notes, ask questions, and be pro-active
  • Must be able to use efficiently, micrometer, Vernier, dial indicator, and general tools
  • Follow company personnel and product safety requirements including standards such as those from SQF and internal GMP's
  • Willing to help wherever needed
  • Travel is required as needed for this position
  • All other duties as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Successful accomplishment of duties and responsibilities requires the following:
  • Operate the stacker on all lines
  • Recognize and identify common coating and litho defects
  • Be Trained on the forklift
  • Operate the waxer
  • Mix Inks
  • Make plates
  • Feed on litho presses

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Better than average mechanical ability. Testing will be done to determine math and reading levels. Mechanical aptitude will be tested. Additional courses may be required as deemed necessary by management. Training will be done on the job and/or through courses at local schools and/or colleges. It may be necessary to attend classes outside of scheduled work hours. Successful completion of all classes is necessary for the apprentice to remain in the program.
LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to read, write, and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos in English. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure; using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percentage.
REASONING ABILITY: Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, and diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, and sit;use hands and fingers to handle and feel; reach with hands and arms; climb, balance, and hear. The employee is frequently required to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, and crouch. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
NOTE: This job description identifies the general nature and scope of work to be performed. Independent Can reserves the right to revise all or any part of this job description and to add or eliminate essential job functions at any time. Designation of any job duty as an essential function is not intended as an assurance or guarantee that a team member has any right to perform the particular job duty, except as required by Independent Can. This job description is subject to change based on the needs of the position and/or the Company.

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