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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship information

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$33

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy equipment operator apprenticeship in the United States is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a heavy equipment operator apprenticeship?

A Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship is a structured training program that combines on-the-job learning with classroom instruction to teach individuals how to safely operate and maintain heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and cranes. Apprentices learn essential skills like equipment operation, safety procedures, routine maintenance, and site preparation under the guidance of experienced professionals. The program typically lasts several years and allows apprentices to earn wages while they learn, ultimately leading to certification or journeyman status in the field.

What can I expect during the on-the-job training phase of a heavy equipment operator apprenticeship?

During the on-the-job training phase, apprentices typically work under the supervision of experienced operators, gradually taking on more complex tasks as their skills improve. You'll learn to operate various types of heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, while adhering to strict safety protocols. Apprentices often rotate through different job sites and projects, gaining hands-on experience with excavation, grading, and site preparation. Collaboration with site supervisors, mechanics, and other tradespeople is common, helping you build teamwork and communication skills vital for career advancement.

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 machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with construction equipment, GPS systems, and completion of OSHA safety training or similar certifications is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and a willingness to learn help apprentices excel in challenging environments. These skills are critical for ensuring safe, efficient equipment operation and laying the foundation for a successful career in construction.

What is the difference between Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship vs Heavy Equipment Technician?

AspectHeavy Equipment Operator ApprenticeshipHeavy Equipment Technician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes certificationsTechnical certifications, associate degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projectsRepair shops, maintenance facilities, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, mining, agricultureEquipment repair companies, manufacturing plants

The Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship focuses on training individuals to operate heavy machinery in construction and industrial settings, emphasizing hands-on experience. In contrast, Heavy Equipment Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining heavy machinery, requiring technical skills and certifications. Both roles are vital in the heavy equipment industry but serve different functions and career paths.

How to get a heavy equipment operator apprenticeship with no experience?

To start a heavy equipment operator apprenticeship with no experience, applicants should focus on gaining basic knowledge of machinery, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent, and consider completing pre-apprenticeship programs or certifications such as OSHA safety training. Many apprenticeships accept beginners and provide on-the-job training combined with classroom instruction, making prior experience less critical.
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Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,330 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator 2 (Ephrata)

Ephrata, WA • On-site

Grant County
See more jobs at Grant Countyexternal

$59K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Position Summary Resume & Cover Letter Required This position is located at District 1, Ephrata Shop Shift: Monday-Thursday 6:00 AM - 4:30 PM Heavy Equipment Operators provide skilled labor for Public Works roadway maintenance, roadway repair, and new construction work including truck operations, light equipment operations, multiple equipment operations, bridge crew operator, traffic technician operator, crane operator, new roads construction grader, and machine control operations leader. Heavy equipment operators may be promoted within their existing position, as they perform progressive levels of duties and responsibilities subject to Employer approval. 2 Apprentice Level: Apprentice level operators conduct truck operations to support journey level operators.

Apprentices can perform any operator duty once they are trained for the task. Alternatively, they may aid the work of a journey level operator, as an apprentice, for work they are still learning how to conduct. Essential Duties and Responsibilities The following examples of duties and accountabilities illustrate the general range of tasks assigned to the position but are not intended to define the limits of required duties.

Other essential duties may be assigned consistent with the general scope of the position. Employee must comply with all County and department policies, procedures, WAC's, or other regulatory bodies. Heavy equipment operators may be promoted within their existing position, with progressive levels of duties and responsibilities.

In addition, heavy equipment operators typically specialize in one or more areas of expertise as they promote. The Heavy Equipment Operator 2 has expertise to include the following: Truck Operators (Level 2): Truck operators provide for the operations of trucks including pickups, light trucks, cars, dump trucks, and truck tractor-trailer combinations with a variety of attachments including bottom dumps, auxiliary dump box trailers, liquid tanks and tank trailers, asphalt storage tanks, pavement patchers, lifting booms, snowplows, spreader boxes, compressors, generators, tilt trailers, power brooms, and paint trailers. In addition, truck operators provide skilled labor for hand tools (mechanical, motorized, or pneumatic), routers, crack fillers, pumps, washers, concrete saws, augers, scales, and assistance in operating the chip spreader.

Education, Experience, and Licensing Heavy Equipment Operators may advance or be placed within their positions by work experience, apprenticeship, or by certification. The table below shows the minimum requirements for the Heavy Equipment Operator 2. Level 2 Apprentice Level: Work Experience: 1 Year of Construction, Agricultural, or Public Works Operations Work Experience.

Apprenticeship and Special: Enrollment in Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship Program or previous Truck Driver employment at County and CDL w/ Manual Endorsement. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Any combination of education and experience may be substituted as long as it provides the desired skills, knowledge and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Required Valid Driver's License: Proof of automobile insurance required.

Valid CDL w/Manual Endorsement. Background Check: Must have an acceptable background record. Driving Abstract: Must have an acceptable driving record.

Physical Abilities and Working Conditions Work is performed both in an office and in the field of various terrain and in various weather conditions. During Field work, incumbents may be exposed to dangers to traffic. Physical Requirements The physical abilities 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 walk, sit, write, hear, speak, and lift up to 50 lbs. of unequal weight. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close and distance vision, peripheral, and depth perception.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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