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Excavator Apprentice Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Matrix Service

Laborer Journeyperson

Ferndale, MI

$35 - $48/hr

Support excavation, concrete, demolition, and general project activities while maintaining clean ... May be required to train and supervise apprentices. * Perform other responsibilities as required or ...

Levy

Field Millwright - Applegrove, WV

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Operate mobile equipment (including but not limited to excavator, loader, skidsteer, etc.) * Feed ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

Levy

Field Millwright - Arkansas

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Operate mobile equipment (including but not limited to excavator, loader, skidsteer, etc.) * Feed ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

Levy

Field Millwright - Kentucky

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Operate mobile equipment (including but not limited to excavator, loader, skidsteer, etc.) * Feed ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

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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 Michigan?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Michigan are:

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

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

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

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

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

Replacement Heavy Equipment Operator - Dirt/Earthwork (2026 Paving Season)

Rieth-Riley Construction

Lansing, MI • On-site

$40.43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Join Rieth-Riley as a replacement worker and help our team Pave the Road to Success! With over a century of providing products and services, Rieth-Riley's asphalt paving experience expands throughout the construction markets for highway, roadway, aviation, commercial, industrial, residential, and track paving projects. Join a team of motivated, highly qualified individuals who are committed to the success of each and every project.
Summary
Operate heavy equipment in a safe, efficient and proper manner for road construction, underground utility, and sitework projects.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Ability to operate various pieces of heavy equipment specifically excavators, bulldozers, and graders.
  • Perform general maintenance and inspection on the equipment.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or (GED)
  • (3) to five (5) years of operating heavy equipment preferred
  • Clean driving record and ability to obtain a CDL.
  • Must have a "Safety First" attitude
  • Follow all Safety Practices, Policies and Procedures
  • Capability to work outdoors in all seasons
  • Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment
  • Must be willing to work nights, weekends and unexpected longer hours when necessary
  • Be a Team player

COMPENSATION PACKAGE AS REPLACEMENT WORKER
  • Base Wage $40.43 per hour
  • Vacation $ 5.00 per hour
  • 401k (company contribution) $11.60 per hour
    • Includes health care coverage for employee and family
    • Applies to all hours on all projects worked

It is the policy of Rieth-Riley to assure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to their veteran status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, citizen status, and/or any other applicable legally recognized protected class under local, state or federal law. Such action shall include: employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and/or on-the-job training. Further, Rieth-Riley will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the religious observations and practices of employees, unless to do so would cause Rieth-Riley an undue hardship.
Individuals with disabilities that require reasonable accommodation in order to complete the application process should contact Rieth-Riley's Human Resources Department by phone 574-875-5183 or by email hr@rieth-riley.com.
It is the policy of Rieth-Riley to assure that applicants are employed, and that employers are treated during employment, without regard to their veteran status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, citizen status, and/or any other applicable legally recognized protected class under local, state, or federal law. Such action shall include: employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer; recruitment or recruitment advertising; layoff or termination; rates of pay or other forms of compensation; and selection for training, including apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and/or on-the-job training. Further, Rieth-Riley will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the religious observations and practices of employees, unless to do so would cause Rieth-Riley an undue hardship.
BY SIGNING THIS APPLICATION, YOU ARE CERTIFYING THAT THE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY YOU HEREIN IS TRUE AND COMPLETE TO THE BEST OF YOUR KNOWLEDGE. IF THE INFORMATION YOU PROVIDE IS FALSE, OR IF YOU OMIT SIGNIFICANT INFORMATION, THEN YOU MAY BE DISQUALIFIED FROM FURTHER EMPLOYMENT CONSIDERATION, OR IF HIRED, SUBJECT TO TERMINATION IF DISCOVERED AT A LATER DATE.
You are making application for employment with a company that takes its safety, environmental, drug and alcohol, and sexual harassment policies very seriously. You should understand now that if you are hired, your failure to follow these policies could result in your immediate termination.

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