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Heavy Equipment Apprentice Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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Heavy Equipment Apprentice information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$20

$35

How much do heavy equipment apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment apprentice in Indiana is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a heavy equipment apprentice?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of mechanical concepts, manual dexterity, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as wrenches, hydraulic systems, and safety equipment, along with OSHA 10 certification, is often required. Strong work ethic, willingness to learn, attention to detail, and effective communication skills can set you apart in this role. These abilities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation and maintenance of costly machinery on job sites.

What is a heavy equipment apprentice?

A Heavy Equipment Apprentice is a trainee who learns how to operate, maintain, and repair heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders. They work under the supervision of experienced operators or mechanics to gain hands-on experience and technical knowledge. Apprentices may perform tasks like inspecting equipment, assisting with repairs, and practicing safe operation. This role is typically part of a formal apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. The goal is to develop the necessary skills for a career as a certified heavy equipment operator or technician.

What does a heavy equipment apprentice do?

As a Heavy Equipment Apprentice, your day often starts with safety briefings and inspecting machinery for readiness. You will work alongside experienced operators, assisting with basic equipment maintenance, performing site clean-up, and learning how to operate various machines under supervision. Apprentices commonly rotate between tasks to build a broad skill set and gain experience with different types of equipment. You can expect to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, collaborate closely with a team, and gradually take on more responsibility as your skills develop. This hands-on experience is essential for progressing toward a fully qualified heavy equipment operator position.

How long is a heavy equipment apprentice program?

A heavy equipment apprentice program typically lasts between 1 to 3 years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. The duration can vary depending on the program's structure, the employer, and the apprentice's prior experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Heavy Equipment jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Apprentice jobs in Indiana? For Heavy Equipment Apprentice jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Apprentice jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Apprentice jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Heavy Equipment Apprentice jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Heavy Equipment Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Apprentice job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,587 per year, or $21 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Dakota Excavating, Inc.

Lebanon, IN โ€ข On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Health, Dental and Vision Insurance Offered After 90 Days 
  • 401K Offered
  • Competitive Pay
  • Career Advancement
  • Pay Is Based On Experience
  • Paid Time Off
Job Summary
As a Heavy Equipment Operator with GPS Experience, you will be essential in executing excavation tasks on construction sites, ensuring precision and efficiency.  Reporting to the Site Supervisor, you will utilize your core skills in heavy equipment operation, particularly with excavators and dozers, while leveraging your GPS expertise for accurate site mapping.  

Responsibilities 
  • Operate heavy equipment equipped with GPS technology for precision grading and finishing work
  • Read and interpret blueprints and project plans to ensure accurate and efficient execution
  • Work independently with minimal supervision to complete tasks on time and to specification
  • Ensure safety and quality standards are adhered to throughout the project
  • Maintain and care for equipment to ensure optimal performance
  • Collaborate with team members and supervisors to ensure project goals are met
  • Perform other related duties as assigned
  • Operate power tools and/or industrial equipment
  • Other manual labor tasks as required by the foreman or supervisor
Qualifications
  • Experience: Proven experience in stie development, specifically operating excavators, dozers, skid steers, tractors and front-end loaders
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks including heavy lifting and working in varying weather conditions
  • Safety-Oriented: Must adhere to all safety policies and procedures
  • Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and team members to ensure smooth operations and project success
  • Valid Driver's License: Reliable transportation to and from job sites is required
  • Pre-Employment Screening:  Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and background check
  • Additional certifications or apprenticeship experience is a plus
  • Must provide 3 personal references