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Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operator Apprentice

Mcdavid, FL

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Benefits starting Day 1! Operator Apprentice Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level ... Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations * Relieving production positions; operating various ...

Operator Apprentice

FL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Benefits starting Day 1! Operator Apprentice Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level ... Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations * Relieving production positions; operating various ...

Operator Apprentice

Dudley, GA

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated ... Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations * Relieving production positions; operating various ...

Operator Apprentice

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

SUMMARY  Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator Apprentice that will be responsible for ... Operate equipment such as scraper, forklift/telehandler, bobcat/skid. * Follow prescribed safety ...

Operator Apprentice

Dudley, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated ... Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations * Relieving production positions; operating various ...

Operator Apprentice

Blackshear, GA

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated ... Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations * Relieving production positions; operating various ...

Operator Apprentice

Kenosha, WI · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator Apprentice that will be responsible for ... Operate equipment such as blade, dozer, loader, scraper, forklift/telehandler, crane, bobcat/skid ...

Operator Apprentice

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator Apprentice that will be responsible for ... Operate equipment such as scraper, forklift/telehandler, bobcat/skid. * Follow prescribed safety ...

Operator Apprentice

Lincoln, NE

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking an Operator Apprentice that will be responsible for ... Operate equipment such as scraper, forklift/telehandler, bobcat/skid. * Follow prescribed safety ...

Operator Apprentice

Dudley, GA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry-level role with the expectation that self-motivated ... Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations * Relieving production positions; operating various ...

Operator Apprentice

Blackshear, GA

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated ... Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations * Relieving production positions; operating various ...

Operator Apprentice

Blackshear, GA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated ... Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations * Relieving production positions; operating various ...

LASER OPERATOR APPRENTICE - PAID TRAINING and $1000 hiring bonus after 6 months ... Start a skilled manufacturing career with hands-on training on advanced laser cutting equipment. At ...

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Equipment Operator Apprentice information

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How much do equipment operator apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for equipment operator apprentice in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

More about Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs
What cities are hiring for Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs? Cities with the most Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Equipment Operator jobs? The most popular types of Equipment Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs? States with the most job openings for Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs include:
Infographic showing various Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $41,951 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Operator Apprentice

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


West Fraser rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies


Job description

Come join our West Fraser team and grow with us!

Benefits starting Day 1!

Operator Apprentice 

Our Operator Apprentice position is an entry level role with the expectation that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions.

What you will do: 

  • Maintaining safe work areas, collecting debris and disposing of sawdust and dropped lumber in assigned areas
  • Cleaning industrial equipment and workstations
  • Relieving production positions; operating various light and heavy industrial machinery
  • Showing a willingness and flexibility to perform various job assignments that may change daily
  • Supporting our culture of safety by adhering to mill safety policies and procedures at all times

What you need to be successful: 

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum of six (6) months in a manufacturing or industrial environment preferred
  • Ability to work outdoors in all temperatures in loud, high-volume environments performing physical tasks throughout the shift
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the position which includes walking, standing, sitting, climbing stairs, bending and lifting up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to perform all tasks in accordance with West Fraser safety policies and procedures
  • Recognize and support our team culture, communicating effectively with all team members
  • Ability to work rotating shifts, holidays and weekends
  • Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check, drug screen test and physical

Our highly competitive compensation package and outstanding benefits include:

  • Benefits starting Day 1
  • Competitive starting pay
  • On-the-job training
  • A culture that strongly believes in promoting from within
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401k with company match
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Insurance
  • Paid vacations and holidays

Apply:

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

West Fraser is a diversified North American wood products company producing southern yellow pine lumber and wood chips across the Southern US and Western Canada. We are the largest lumber producer in North America!

Our employees operate in a culture that values safety first and rewards hard work. We recognize and support our team culture and focus on growing our team by promoting from within – many of our employees have built their careers with us. West Fraser is a growing company that believes strongly in promoting from within and prides itself on providing a challenging environment with continuous development. The successful candidate should be interested in future growth opportunities within the company.

We thank all candidates for their interest. Please apply through our online application process as resumes will not be accepted at the site. No phone inquiries, please.

West Fraser believes inclusive, diverse teams build a more vibrant workforce, safer operations, and a stronger company overall. We strive to create workplaces and leadership teams that are reflective of the diverse communities we are a part of. We will not discriminate against any applicant for employment on the basis of race, gender, national origin, or any other protected legal characteristic.

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


What West Fraser employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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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

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