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Excavator Apprentice Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Excavator Apprentice information

What is an excavator apprentice?

An Excavator Apprentice is an entry-level worker who is learning to operate excavators and other heavy equipment under the supervision of experienced operators. Apprentices receive on-the-job training and may also attend classroom instruction to learn about safety procedures, equipment maintenance, and proper operating techniques. The goal of the apprenticeship is to gain the skills and experience needed to become a qualified excavator operator. Duties often include assisting with digging, grading, and site preparation on construction projects. Over time, apprentices take on more responsibilities as they progress through their training.

What can I expect from the typical training and mentorship process as an excavator apprentice?

As an Excavator Apprentice, you will typically begin with hands-on training under the supervision of experienced operators. You'll learn essential skills such as machine operation, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols. Apprentices often rotate through different job sites to gain exposure to various tasks and conditions, and regular feedback from mentors helps you improve your technique and understanding. This collaborative environment allows you to gradually take on more responsibility as your skills develop.

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

To thrive as an Excavator Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of construction safety, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy equipment, basic hand tools, and willingness to earn OSHA safety certifications are common requirements. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help apprentices work effectively with experienced operators and crews. These skills are crucial for maintaining safety, learning proper techniques, and progressing in the construction industry.

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

AspectExcavator ApprenticeHeavy Equipment Operator
Required CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly a basic certificationCommercial driver's license (CDL), certification in equipment operation
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, training environmentsConstruction, mining, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, contractorsConstruction firms, mining companies, government agencies

Excavator Apprentices typically undergo training and gain experience operating excavators under supervision, focusing on skill development. Heavy Equipment Operators have more advanced certifications and experience, often operating multiple types of machinery independently. While apprentices are in training, operators are fully qualified workers. Both roles are essential in construction projects, but the apprentice role is a stepping stone toward becoming a certified heavy equipment operator.

What are the most commonly searched types of Excavator jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Excavator Apprentice jobs in Florida?

For Excavator Apprentice jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Excavator Apprentice jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Excavator Apprentice jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Excavator Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Excavator Apprentice job openings:

Excavator Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Apprentice job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Underground Fire Sprinkler Apprentice - Ft Myers, FL

WAYNE AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLERS INC

Fort Myers, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

 Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers Inc. is a family business whose success is driven by our amazing Team Members who save lives daily!

We’re an open-book company that offers Weekly Pay, Performance Bonuses (PIPs), Excellent Benefits, and a Company Culture that we are proud of!

Join the WAFS family TODAY!

Who are we?

Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers, Inc. has been in business for over 48 years and currently has 7 branches across Florida and North Carolina. We’re a family business at our core and are proud to be a part of a life-saving industry. Here at WAFS, we offer a company culture that promotes continuous growth in your career and treats our team members like family. We are an open-book company and share our financials with all team members. We are proud to be an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company, which means every eligible team member is also an employee-owner, sharing in the growth and long-term success of Wayne Automatic.  Learn more about our company and history at www.waynefire.com or visit our company's Facebook page at Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers Inc.  

Underground Fire Sprinkler Apprentice

Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers is looking for an Underground Fire Sprinkler Apprentice in our Ft. Myers branch to work in the surrounding areas. The Underground Apprentice assists with installation, repair, testing, and maintenance of underground fire protection piping systems. Under the direction of an Underground Foreman, the apprentice learns excavation safety, underground pipe installation, thrust blocking, restraint systems, hydrants, post indicator valves (PIVs), fire department connections (FDCs), flushing, hydrostatic testing, and site restoration. Work is performed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with NFPA standards, local codes, and WAFS procedures.

Day to Day:

  • Follow procedures and direction from the Underground foreman for the installation of underground work and related fire protection components, working to complete projects on schedule, within budget, and to required standards.
  • Follows the direction of the Underground foreman for the layout, assembly, and installation of underground fire mains, ductile iron and C900 piping, fittings, valves, hydrants, post indicator valves (PIVs), fire department connections (FDCs), thrust restraints, and related underground fire protection components. This includes gaining knowledge of underground system operations and interpreting blueprints and installation instructions.
  • Learn to read civil, utility, and fire protection plans and locate underground utilities before excavation
  • Perform maintenance and replacement work on system components, such as valves, gauges, tamper switches, etc.
  • Proactively notify the foreman of any issues, concerns, or changes on the job site.
  • Comply with all work and safety rules and proper safety protocols on the job site.
  • Loads the trucks with all necessary materials, tools, and equipment.
  • Responsible for the care, maintenance, and safekeeping of assigned tools and equipment.
  • Assist with excavation, trench preparation, pipe laying, backfilling, compaction, and restoration of work areas.
  • Assist with flushing, hydrostatic testing, inspections, and final acceptance of underground fire protection systems.
  • Learn safe trenching and excavation practices, including working around existing underground utilities and following all OSHA trench safety requirements.
  • Wear a clean company uniform at all times.
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly work area.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Underground foreman or superintendent/manager.

What are the Qualifications for this position?

  • Construction experience is preferred but not required.
  • Basic knowledge of hand tools
  • Ability to wear required protective equipment and adhere to safety guidelines on job sites.
  • Successful completion of a pre-employment drug test, background check, and 10-year employment verification is required.

Why should I join Wayne Automatic?

  • We provide a highly competitive compensation package, including performance incentive pay (PIPs) based on the work you perform and the branch/department you work in
  • We are an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company, which means every eligible team member is also an employee-owner, sharing in the growth and long-term success of Wayne Automatic
  • Weekly Pay 
  • 401(k) plan with company match based on profits 
  • Excellent medical/dental/vision/life/disability insurance plans 
  • Paid time off and holidays 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Many Administrative positions offer flexible work schedules and/or hybrid opportunities 
  • General Motors Vehicle Discount Program for all WAFS employees 
  • Home fire sprinkler system discounts 
  • Ability to move up in the company (we promote from within!)  
  • Excellent training including Wayne Academy  
  • State-of-the-art technology and tools 
  • Offsite Company Team Building & Celebration Events  
  • A company culture that promotes continuous growth in your career!
  • Wayne Automatic is proud to be an Employee-Owned company!

Apply