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Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs in Washington

Equipment Operator

Manassas, VA

$19 - $26/hr

ResponsibilitiesWhat You'll Do as an Equipment Operator As an Equipment Operatorat Lewis Services ... apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay-off and termination, and all other terms and ...

Equipment Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Responsibilities What You'll Do as an Equipment Operator As anEquipment Operator at Lewis Services ... apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay-off and termination, and all other terms and ...

Equipment Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

ResponsibilitiesWhat You'll Do as an Equipment Operator As an Equipment Operatorat Lewis Services ... apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay-off and termination, and all other terms and ...

Equipment Operator

Manassas, VA

$19 - $26/hr

What You'll Do as an Equipment Operator As an Equipment Operatorat Lewis Services, you'll ... apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay-off and termination, and all other terms and ...

Equipment Operator

Manassas, VA

$19 - $26/hr

ResponsibilitiesWhat You'll Do as an Equipment Operator As an Equipment Operatorat Lewis Services ... apprenticeship, promotion, demotion, transfer, lay-off and termination, and all other terms and ...

Carpenter Apprentice

Washington, DC

$20.50 - $27.25/hr

Care for tools and equipment. * Keeps materials stocked for journeyman. * Develops knowledge thru ... Ability to comprehend documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and ...

Communication Apprentice

Tysons, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

This level Apprentice will be given instruction and work experience installing basic communication ... operating equipment, and assisting in the transportation of various materials. Proper lifting ...

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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, and why are they important?

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 Washington? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Equipment Operator Apprentice / I, Grade 12/15

Montgomery County (MD)

Rockville, MD

$55K - $86K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

About the Position Please note: The salary range below represents this position's earning potential. The anticipated hiring range for this position will be as follows, based on the candidate's qualifications and experience. Equipment Operator Apprentice, Grade 12: $51,351 to $53,374 Equipment Operator I, Grade 15: $57,099 to $68,213 WHO WE ARE The Montgomery County Department of Transportation's mission is to move people and connect places with seamless, equitable transportation options that are safe, environmentally responsible, and support economic growth and vibrancy in Montgomery County.??MCDOT supports its residents, commuters and visitors with transit options and infrastructure that provides seamless transportation services to the public

The Division of Highway Services manages the maintenance of all transportation infrastructure within the County right-of-way including more than 5,200 lane miles of rural, residential, and primary roadways, as well as nearly 1,000 miles of concrete curb, gutter, and sidewalk. The Tree Maintenance Section manages an inventory of over 250,000 street trees and more than 200,000 trees in the rural areas. WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is seeking Equipment Operators for the Division of Highway Services (DHS).

This is entry level semi-skilled work involving the use of hand tools (shovels, rakes, lutes, picks, mattocks, tampers, etc.) small gasoline power equipment (push and commercial walk behind mowers, weed cutters, edgers, plate tampers, chain saws, pole saws, air compressors, jack hammers, paint sprayers, concrete mixers, concrete saws, trenchers, etc.) and the operation of 26,000-35,000 GVW dump trucks to perform basic highway construction maintenance related tasks. Knowledge of baseline characteristics of assigned vehicles/equipment and ability to effectively and safely operate and perform operator-level general inspections and preventive maintenance tasks on them. Knowledge of applicable Motor Vehicle Administration and highway regulations for safe, legal operation of the vehicles/equipment used

What You'll Be Doing As an Equipment Operator, this person will perform following duties: Operates and performs federally mandated, manufacturer-recommended and other driver-level general inspections and preventive maintenance tasks on one or more of the following pieces of equipment: 26,000-35,000 GVW dump trucks; asphalt distributor (towed); 11/2-3 cubic yard front end loaders; 4-6 ton vibratory and non-vibratory rollers; skid loaders with attachments (including but not limited to the backhoe, sweeper and paving profiler); pavement saw, tractor mowers, box pavers; woodchippers; and other types/makes of similar equipment. Mechanically and manually loads, secures, and unloads cargo and equipment, complying with federal motor carrier and state requirements. Operates a variety of power equipment such as mowers, sidewalk grinders, chainsaws, and similar equipment.

Participates in seasonal activities including snow removal and leafing operations. Performs unskilled and semi-skilled manual labor work as an integral member of a crew; this includes use of chainsaws, plate tampers, concrete-finishing tools, etc. The work involves moderate physical effort.

This is required to perform manual labor tasks that include pushing, pulling, lifting and carrying materials weighing up to 50 pounds, as well as occasionally transporting heavy loads over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces, or intermittently pushing, pulling, and lifting objects weighing up to 100 pounds. Additional Information: The individual selected for this position will be considered an "Essential Employee." Essential employees must report to work during a period of general emergency or liberal leave. This individual selected is REQUIRED to work overtime during inclement weather situations and emergencies, which may include overnight stays

Minimum Qualifications Equipment Operator Apprentice: Experience: None. Education: Ability to read and write in English and carry out oral and written instructions. Equivalency: None.

License: At the Time of Employment Application Must possess and maintain at all times either a valid Class "B" Commercial Driver's License or an Instructional Permit for a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License issued by the state of residence. First Day of Employment Must possess and maintain at all times either a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or an Instructional Permit for a Class "B" Commercial Driver's License issued by the state of residence. Upon Completion of Probationary Period Must possess and maintain at all times a valid Class "B" (or equivalent) Commercial Driver's License (CDL) issued by the state of residence.

Medical Exam Protocol: This position requires successful completion of a pre-employment medical evaluation, which includes a physical examination and drug screening. Equipment Operator I: Experience: One (1) year of experience operating the vehicles/equipment assigned under this specification. Education: Ability to read and write in English and carry out oral and written instructions.

Equivalency: None. License: Possession and maintenance at all times of a valid Class B (or equivalent) Commercial Driver's License (CDL) from the applicant's state of residence with mandatory endorsements. Medical Exam and Background Investigation: This position requires successful completion of a pre-employment medical evaluation, which includes a physical examination and drug screening.

All Levels - Physical Demands: Moderate to significant physical effort is required to perform manual labor tasks that include pushing, pulling, lifting, and carrying materials weighing up to 100 pounds, as well as occasionally transporting heavy loads over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces, or pushing, pulling, and lifting objects and tools weighing over 100 pounds. Preferred Criteria, Interview Preferences There are NO Preferred Criteria Assessments. All Applicants will be reviewed by the Office of Human Resources (OHR) for minimum qualifications.

Those applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be rated "Qualified", placed on the eligible list, and may be considered for an interview. Employees meeting minimum qualifications of the same grade or higher will be placed on the Eligible List as a "Transfer" candidate and may be considered for an interview. IMPORTANT INFORMATION The Office of Human Resources (OHR) reviews the minimum qualifications of all applicants, irrespective of whether the candidate has previously been found to have met the minimum requirements for the job or been temporarily promoted to the same position.

This evaluation is based solely on the information contained in the application/resume submitted for this specific position. Montgomery County Government(MCG) is an equal opportunity employer, committed to workforce diversity. Accordingly, as it relates to employment opportunities, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities, in accordance with the law.

Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should email OHR at Hiring@montgomerycountymd.gov. Individual determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made in accordance with all applicable laws. MCG also provides hiring preference to certain categories of veterans and veterans/persons with a disability

For more information and to claim employment preference, refer to the Careers webpage on Hiring Preference. All applicants will respond to a series of questions related to their education, relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities required to minimally perform the job. The applicant's responses in conjunction with their resume and all other information provided in the employment application process will be evaluated to determine the minimum qualifications and preferred criteria or interview preference status.

Based on the results, the highest qualified applicants will be placed on an Eligible List and may be considered for an interview. Employees meeting minimum qualifications who are the same grade will be placed on the Eligible List as a "Lateral Transfer" candidate and may be considered for an interview. This will establish an Eligible List that may be used to fill both current and future vacancies.

If selected for consideration for this position, you may be required to provide evidence that you possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities indicated on your resume. Montgomery County Ethics Law: Except as provided by law or regulation, the County's "Public Employees" (which does not include employees of the Sheriff's office) are subject to the County's ethics law including the requirements to obtain advanced approval of any outside employment and the prohibitions on certain outside employment. The outside employment requirements of the ethics law can be found at 19A-12 of the County Code.

Additional information about outside employment can be obtained from the Ethics Commission website.