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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs in California

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$26.84 - $28.52/hr

Description CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52 /Hour + Overtime | Company Paid Benefits | Paid Training | Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response Full-Time |Travel Up ...

Hulcher Services Inc

Apprentice Operator I

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$29.69 - $32.56/hr

Description CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I $26.84 - $28.52 /Hour + Overtime | Company Paid Benefits | Paid Training | Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response Full-Time |Travel Up ...

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 ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$27.79/hr

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$27.79/hr

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site ...

Waste Management

Heavy Equipment Operator

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$27.79/hr

Are you looking for stable work as a Heavy Equipment Operator II with benefits that provide financial security for you and your family? Aspiring to advance in your heavy equipment career at a site ...

Motive Companies

Heavy Equipment Operator

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

Purpose of Role The Heavy Equipment Operator will operate one or more types of heavy machinery-including excavators, dozers, backhoes, compactors, articulated dump trucks, and front‑end loaders-as ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Oakland, CA · On-site

$35 - $37/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment and machinery to support the construction, maintenance, and operations of our facilities and projects. This role ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Oakland, CA · On-site

$35 - $37/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment and machinery to support the construction, maintenance, and operations of our facilities and projects. This role ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

Oakland, CA

$35 - $37/hr

The ideal candidate will be responsible for operating a variety of heavy equipment and machinery to support the construction, maintenance, and operations of our facilities and projects. This role ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

San Diego, CA

Essel is looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will operate various types of heavy machinery and equipment to ensure the successful completion of our ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

Essel is looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will operate various types of heavy machinery and equipment to ensure the successful completion of our ...

Essel

Heavy Equipment Operator

San Diego, CA · On-site

Essel is looking for a skilled Heavy Equipment Operator to join our team. In this role, you will operate various types of heavy machinery and equipment to ensure the successful completion of our ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice information

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$13

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$33

How much do heavy equipment operator apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator apprentice in California is $23.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a heavy equipment operator apprentice?

A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice is an individual who is learning to operate large machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and cranes under the supervision of experienced operators. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, teaching safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and operational techniques. The goal is to gain the skills and experience necessary to become a certified heavy equipment operator. Apprenticeships typically last several years and may lead to full-time employment in construction, mining, or other industries that use heavy machinery.

What types of equipment and tasks can a heavy equipment operator apprentice expect to handle during their apprenticeship?

As a Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice, you will typically work with a variety of machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and graders under the supervision of experienced operators. Your daily responsibilities may include basic equipment operation, routine maintenance checks, adhering to safety protocols, and assisting with site preparation or cleanup. Apprentices often rotate between different tasks and machines to gain broad hands-on experience, preparing them for more advanced roles. Collaboration with other crew members and learning from mentors is a vital part of the apprenticeship, helping you develop both technical and teamwork skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy equipment operator apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of construction principles, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy machinery, safety protocols, and often OSHA certification or training in equipment-specific systems is valuable. Strong attention to detail, communication, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills for success in this hands-on role. These qualities ensure safe, efficient operation and the ability to progress to more advanced responsibilities in the field.

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

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator ApprenticeHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and on-the-job training or apprenticeship programsRequires completion of apprenticeship or certification, with experience in operating heavy machinery
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction, and industrial settings under supervisionFull responsibility for operating equipment on construction sites, mining, or infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageEmployers hire apprentices to train and develop skills in construction, mining, and infrastructure sectorsExperienced operators employed in similar industries, responsible for safe and efficient equipment operation

The main difference is that a Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice is in training and gaining skills under supervision, while a Heavy Equipment Operator is fully qualified and responsible for operating machinery independently. Apprenticeship programs prepare individuals for a career as a fully licensed operator, ensuring safety and proficiency in the field.

How to get a heavy equipment operator apprentice job with no experience?

To secure a heavy equipment operator apprentice position with no experience, applicants should focus on obtaining a high school diploma or GED, demonstrate physical fitness, and learn basic equipment operation through training programs or online courses. Many employers offer on-the-job training and look for candidates with a strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and safety awareness; obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can also improve chances.

What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in California?

For Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs?

Cities in California with the most Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings:

Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,684 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Apprentice Operator I

Hulcher Services, Inc.

Bloomington, CA • On-site

$29.69 - $32.56/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description:

CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I

$26.84 - $28.52 /Hour + Overtime | Company Paid Benefits | Paid Training | Build a Career in Railroad Emergency Response

Full-Time |Travel Up to 50% | 24/7 Emergency Response Operations


Turn Your CDL Into a Career


Hulcher Services is looking for motivated individuals with a Class A CDL who are ready to build a career operating specialized heavy equipment used in railroad derailment response and recovery.

This isn't a typical driving job. You'll receive hands-on training while working alongside experienced operators to learn how to safely recover derailed railcars and locomotives using cranes, hydraulic equipment, and other specialized machinery.

If you enjoy challenging work, operating equipment, traveling, and being part of a team that responds when others can't, this is an opportunity unlike any other.


Compensation & Benefits

  • $26.84 - $28.52 Per Hour
  • Overtime Opportunities
  • Weekly Pay
  • Company paid benefits 
  • Paid Training
  • Career Advancement Opportunities
  • Full-Time, Year-Round Employment

About Hulcher Services


Hulcher Services is a nationwide leader in railroad derailment response, engineering, track maintenance, environmental services, and disaster recovery. With more than 500 employees operating from over 25 divisions throughout the United States and Mexico, we respond to critical incidents 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our teams help restore rail service safely and efficiently using specialized equipment and highly trained personnel.


What You'll Do


As a CDL A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice I, you'll train alongside experienced crews while supporting emergency railroad operations throughout your assigned region.


Responsibilities include:

  • Transport specialized heavy equipment using tractor-trailers and escort vehicles.
  • Assist with railroad derailment recovery operations.
  • Learn to operate heavy recovery equipment under the guidance of experienced operators.
  • Handle heavy steel chains, wire rope, rigging equipment, lifting blocks, and recovery tools.
  • Climb on and beneath railcars and locomotives during recovery operations.
  • Perform equipment setup, maintenance, cleaning, and inspections.
  • Use hand tools, power tools, cutting torches, and welding equipment.
  • Perform physically demanding work, including digging, lifting, rigging, and equipment setup.
  • Work safely around heavy equipment, active railroads, bridges, waterways, and industrial environments.
  • Follow all company safety procedures and operational standards.


Requirements:

What We're Looking For


We're looking for dependable individuals who enjoy hands-on work and are ready to build a long-term career in heavy equipment and railroad operations.


Required Qualifications

  • Valid Class A CDL with no restrictions
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to travel up to 50%
  • Willingness to work in a 24/7 emergency response environment
  • Ability to pass required background screenings and pre-employment requirements
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 100 pounds occasionally and 50 pounds frequently
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Comfortable working at heights exceeding 25 feet and around water when required

Experience in any of the following is a plus:

  • Heavy Equipment Operation
  • Construction
  • Truck Driving
  • Rigging
  • Railroad
  • Crane Operations
  • Welding
  • Diesel Mechanics
  • Oil & Gas
  • Utilities
  • Military
  • Agriculture
  • Work Schedule

This position supports emergency railroad operations, which means flexibility is essential.

  • Standard work schedule Monday through Friday
  • 24/7 on-call rotation for emergency derailment response
  • Travel required throughout the assigned territory
  • Overtime available during emergency response operations

Why Join Hulcher Services?


Few careers offer the opportunity to operate specialized heavy equipment while helping restore critical railroad infrastructure across North America.


At Hulcher Services, you'll receive hands-on training, work alongside experienced professionals, earn excellent company paid benefits, and build a career in a unique industry where your skills make an immediate impact.

If you're looking for more than just another CDL driving job and want a career with challenge, stability, and advancement opportunities, apply today and become part of the Hulcher Services team.