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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Vulcan Materials Company

Equipment Operator

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$40.89 - $47.31/hr

Job Summary This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy off-highway ... The Equipment Operator will prioritize safety, perform equipment inspections and minor maintenance ...

Vulcan Materials Company

Equipment Operator

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$40.89 - $47.31/hr

Job Summary This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy off-highway ... The Equipment Operator will prioritize safety, perform equipment inspections and minor maintenance ...

Peterson

Heavy Duty Repair Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$45/hr

... in heavy equipment service; or an equivalent combination of education and work experience. Must be a member of Local 3 of the Operating Engineers or be willing to become one as a condition of ...

Anonymous Employer

Plant Operator

Middletown, CA

$40 - $50/hr

Power Plant Operators are responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power ... Operate heavy equipment (manlifts, forklifts) and handle/transfer bulk chemicals * **Process ...

Ongaro & Sons

Electrical Install Apprentice

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

As a family-operated business, we pride ourselves on integrity, service, quality, and commitment ... Reading and interpreting equipment manuals and work orders to perform the required repair or ...

Ongaro & Sons

Electrical Install Apprentice

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$100K/yr

As a family-operated business, we pride ourselves on integrity, service, quality, and commitment ... Reading and interpreting equipment manuals and work orders to perform the required repair or ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice information

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$15

$25

$36

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator apprentice in Santa Rosa, CA is $25.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $29.42 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 Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Heavy Equipment Operator jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Heavy Equipment Operator Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA 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 Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,934 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Equipment Operator

Petaluma, CA • On-site

Vulcan Materials Company
Coal, Metals and Minerals Mining • 10K+ employees

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

298th of 545 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about Vulcan Materials Companyexternal

$40.89 - $47.31/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of heavy off-highway equipment used to transport raw materials and/or finished products within the facility. The Equipment Operator will prioritize safety, perform equipment inspections and minor maintenance, and monitor plant operations to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
Essential Functions
Safely operate off-highway equipment to transport raw materials and/or finished products throughout the facility in a safe and efficient manner.
Perform thorough pre-trip and post-trip inspections and accurately completing daily mobile equipment reports and other relevant documentation.
Maintain equipment performance by checking vehicle fluid levels and adding correct fluids as necessary and assisting in performing other minor maintenance.
Monitor the plant and operations and report any necessary maintenance or adjustments that may be required to ensure safety.
Load and unload aggregate materials according to specifications and production demands.
Maintain accurate records of materials moved, equipment hours, and daily activities.
Adhere strictly to all company safety policies, procedures, and MSHA regulations.
Critical Competencies
Safety Awareness - Ability to recognize, understand, and adhere to safety protocols and procedures in the workplace; proactive in identifying potential hazards, taking steps to mitigate risks, and ensuring that both personal and collective safety are maintained in all tasks and environments.
Equipment Operation-Proficiency in operating large loaders with ability to accurately and smoothly maneuver and complete various tasks, such as loading, dumping, and transporting materials. Skill in handling attachments and understanding their applications.
Problem Solving - Identify, analyze, and resolve work-related issues efficiently and effectively using practical knowledge, experience, and hands-on skills. Finds practical solutions, implements fixes, and adapts to unexpected challenges.
Attention to Detail - Ability to thoroughly and accurately complete tasks; meticulous and precise when handling information, and is critical in ensuring the quality, accuracy, and integrity of the results.
Adaptability - Adapts to new conditions, is flexible and open-minded when facing challenges, and maintains high performance during change.
Teamwork and Collaboration - Ability to work effectively and harmoniously with others to achieve common goals; contributes positively to group efforts, sharing knowledge, and being open to others' ideas and feedback.

Education
High school diploma or equivalent.
Experience
Previous experience operating heavy construction equipment is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of general principles and practices of operating and servicing heavy construction equipment is preferred.
Strong understanding of MSHA regulations and a commitment to safety.
Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic equipment inspections and maintenance.
Good communication skills.
Other Requirements
Ability to sit for extended periods of time while operating equipment.
Ability to ascend and descend equipment safely.
Ability to work in outdoor environments, including exposure to dust, noise, and varying temperatures.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Hourly Range. The base hourly range for this role is between $40.89 - $47.31 per hour. This range is not inclusive of our discretionary bonus or equity package.  When determining a candidate's compensation, we consider a number of factors, including skillset, experience, job scope, and current market data.  
JD Disclaimer
Vulcan Materials Company is an equal opportunity employer.

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