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Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship Program Completed (Certificate in hand) CAC Criteria. Desired Knowledge and/or Skills: • Knowledge of construction machinery, capacities, and safe operating ...

Clow

Laser Operator Apprentice

Merrifield, MN · On-site

$20.80/hr

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 ...

Clow

Laser Operator Apprentice

Merrifield, MN

$20.80/hr

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 ...

Knife River Corporation

Equipment Operator

Boise, ID · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

Pavement and Construction Equipment Apprentice * Pavement and Construction Equipment Helper Army: * Motor Transport Operator * General Construction Equipment Operator * Heavy Construction Equipment ...

Weitsman Recycling

Equipment Operator

Allegany, NY

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

A completed apprenticeship would be advantageous. * Prior experience operating equipment. * Excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills. * Ability to follow orders, especially under pressure.

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship Program Completed (Certificate in hand) CAC Criteria. Desired Knowledge and/or Skills: • Knowledge of construction machinery, capacities, and safe operating ...

Toebe Construction

Equipment Operator

Wixom, MI

$18.25 - $25/hr

Whether you're an apprentice, a seasoned professional, or somewhere in between, we welcome driven ... Equipment Operator A pre-employment physical and drug screen are required. Responsibilities include ...

Toebe Construction

Equipment Operator

Wixom, MI · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Whether you're an apprentice, a seasoned professional, or somewhere in between, we welcome driven ... Equipment Operator A pre-employment physical and drug screen are required. Responsibilities include ...

Weitsman Recycling

Equipment Operator

Allegany, NY · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

A completed apprenticeship would be advantageous. * Prior experience operating equipment. * Excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills. * Ability to follow orders, especially under pressure.

Fountain Services LLC

Equipment Operator

Shelby, NC

$20 - $28/hr

Career Growth : We offer a North Carolina-accredited and Registered Apprenticeship Program ... Equipment Operator Fountain Services, LLC ( is seeking qualified and experienced equipment ...

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Lawton, OK

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

The Equipment Operator will be responsible for ditching of new house services, sub-division ... State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program * Paid Vacation * Servant Leadership ...

Davis H Elliot Company, Inc.

Equipment Operator

Edmond, OK

$14.25 - $19.50/hr

The Equipment Operator will be responsible for ditching of new house services, sub-division ... State and Federally accredited Lineman Apprenticeship program * Paid Vacation * Servant Leadership ...

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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:
Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs near you
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.
Heavy Equipment Operator - Finish Grade

Heavy Equipment Operator - Finish Grade

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Heavy Equipment Operator/Finish Grade – Grading Division
General Summary: Western Engineering Contractors Inc. is seeking a qualified Heavy Equipment Operator for our Grading, Underground, and Paving Divisions for full-time employment. Western Engineering is a local contractor that is based in Loomis and performs work in the greater Sacramento area and surrounding foothills. Western Engineering is a reputable company that has been rooted in the industry for over 40 years.
Essential Functions: Operates several types of power construction equipment, such as motor graders, excavators, asphalt paving machines, backhoes, tractors, and scrapers, to excavate, move, spread, compact and grade earth, rock, and asphalt paving materials.
Education Requirements: High school diploma preferable.
Experience Requirements: 5 or more years of Heavy Equipment Operator experience.
Bonus: Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship Program Completed (Certificate in hand) CAC Criteria.
Desired Knowledge and/or Skills:
• Knowledge of construction machinery, capacities, and safe operating procedures.
• Capable of performing close tolerance work safely and productively.
• Knowledge of material handling methods and procedures.
• Knowledge of local site conditions.
• Capability to cut finish grade with use of motor-graders and skip-loaders.
• Knowledge of GPS machine control systems such as Trimble and Topcon.
• Ability to read plans and stakes a plus.
• Familiar with OSHA regulations.
Benefits
• Health, vision, Life insurance, and dental insurance plans offered.
• Matching 401K contributions.
• Paid time off.
• Pay is $40-46 per hour based on experience.
About the Company
Western Engineering Contractors provide initial mass grading, utility installation, finish paving, and complete pre-construction services. Nearly every aspect of these services is completed in-house, utilizing Western employees and equipment. This full-service full-commitment approach, and over 40 years of experience, is what has established Western as the Sitework Specialist in the greater Sacramento area.
We often have Section 3 work. Preference will be given to Section 3 residents for hiring.
Please no phone calls.
No recruiters, please.
Western Engineering Contractors, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Revised 4.24.26

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