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Excavator Apprentice Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Branch Civil

MECHANIC II (Heavy Equipment)

Chantilly, VA

$62K - $106K/yr

Repair and service equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, graders, loaders, backhoes, cranes ... Provide guidance and mentorship to Heavy Equipment Mechanic I positions and apprentices. * Assist ...

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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 Washington?

The most popular types of Excavator jobs in Washington are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Excavator Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Excavator Apprentice job openings:

Excavator Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Excavator Apprentice job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution.

MECHANIC II (Heavy Equipment)

The Branch Group

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$62K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
Branch is searching for an experienced and safety-oriented Mechanic to join our well-established, growing company. The Heavy Equipment Mechanic II is a skilled journey-level position responsible for performing preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on a variety of heavy construction equipment. This role requires troubleshooting skills, the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and the capability to train and mentor entry-level mechanics.
Duties/Responsibilities
  • Perform scheduled preventive maintenance services, adjustments, and equipment overhauls.
  • Utilize diagnostic tools, service manuals, and electronic equipment to identify and resolve mechanical issues.
  • Inspect, diagnose, and repair diesel and gasoline engines, hydraulic systems, transmissions, electrical systems, and undercarriages on heavy construction equipment.
  • Repair and service equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, graders, loaders, backhoes, cranes, and other specialized machinery.
  • Weld, fabricate, and modify equipment parts as needed to maintain operational standards.
  • Maintain accurate service records, work orders, and parts usage in compliance with company procedures.
  • Adhere to safety protocols, PPE standards, and environmental regulations while performing work.
  • Provide guidance and mentorship to Heavy Equipment Mechanic I positions and apprentices.
  • Assist in road calls and field repairs to minimize equipment downtime.
  • May perform other related duties as assigned.

Duties/Responsibilities Cont.
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent; completion of a vocational or technical program in heavy equipment repair preferred.
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of experience as a heavy equipment mechanic, including at least 2 years in construction equipment repair.
  • Valid driver's license (CDL preferred or ability to obtain).
  • Manufacturer or industry certifications (e.g., Caterpillar, John Deere, ASE Medium/Heavy Truck) highly desirable.
  • Ability to lift up to 75 lbs. and work in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.

Compensation
Salary Min: $62,167
Salary Max: $106,550
Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors.
Competencies
Dependability
Following Policies and Procedures
Working Safely
Productivity
Delivering High Quality Work
Travel
Supervisory Responsibility
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle, feel or operate objects, tools or controls, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to stand, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, taste and smell. The employee must frequently lift or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position which will typically involve 40+ hours a week. Due to the nature of the job, the employee must be available on-call early/late hours to deal with delays, bad weather and emergencies at the job site.
AAP/EEO Statement
It has been and will continue to be a fundamental policy of the Company not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or status as a veteran, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law, with respect to recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, and other terms and condition of employment.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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