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Maintenance Apprentice Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

Sawfiler Apprentice

Opelika, AL ยท On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

In the Sawfiler Apprentice role the expectation is that self-motivated individuals will advance into progressively skilled positions. The successful applicant will be allowed an appropriate amount of ...

SkillBridge Technician Apprentice

Fortson, GA ยท On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Yancey's SkillBridge Technician Apprenticeship is a training program for U.S. Military Service Members within or nearing 180-days of separation from active duty. You will complete a structured ...

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Maintenance Apprentice information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do maintenance apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for maintenance apprentice in Columbus, GA is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a maintenance apprentice?

Maintenance Apprentices are entry-level workers who assist experienced maintenance technicians in inspecting, repairing, and maintaining equipment, machinery, or facilities. They typically learn on the job while receiving formal instruction, gaining hands-on experience with tools, safety procedures, and various maintenance tasks. The apprenticeship is designed to build foundational skills that can lead to a full-time maintenance technician role or specialized trade positions. Maintenance Apprentices often work in industries such as manufacturing, property management, or construction.

What does a maintenance apprentice do?

A maintenance apprentice works alongside fully qualified maintenance technicians to learn the skills of the trade. As a maintenance apprentice, your responsibilities are to assist with a variety of duties, including installing equipment, maintaining mechanical systems, and repairing machines. You may also need to complete classroom or online training about HVAC structures, plumbing, and electrical and mechanical systems and components.

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

To thrive as a Maintenance Apprentice, you need basic mechanical aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety protocols, and, in some cases, exposure to computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) are beneficial. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure that apprentices can safely assist with repairs, learn efficiently, and contribute positively to maintenance teams.

What types of hands-on tasks can I expect as a maintenance apprentice, and how does on-the-job training typically work?

As a Maintenance Apprentice, you'll regularly assist with preventive maintenance, basic repairs, and troubleshooting under the supervision of experienced technicians. On-the-job training is a key component, where you'll shadow professionals, learn how to use tools and equipment safely, and gradually take on more complex tasks as you gain confidence. You'll often rotate through different areas or systems (such as HVAC, electrical, or plumbing) to develop a broad skill set. Collaboration is essential, as you'll work closely with team members to respond to maintenance requests and ensure all work meets safety standards.

What is the difference between Maintenance Apprentice vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectMaintenance ApprenticeMaintenance Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical certifications or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised training in industrial or facility settingsMore independent work, troubleshooting, and repairs in similar environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by manufacturing, facilities, and industrial companies for training rolesUsed across industries for skilled maintenance roles
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The Maintenance Apprentice role is an entry-level position focused on learning and gaining hands-on experience under supervision. Maintenance Technicians are more experienced, performing repairs and maintenance independently. Apprentices typically work towards becoming certified technicians, making this a training pathway within the same industry.

How much does a maintenance apprentice make?

A maintenance apprentice typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Apprentices often receive on-the-job training and may progress to higher wages as they gain skills and certifications in areas like electrical or mechanical systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Maintenance jobs in Columbus, GA?

The most popular types of Maintenance jobs in Columbus, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Maintenance Apprentice jobs in Columbus, GA?

For Maintenance Apprentice jobs in Columbus, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Maintenance Apprentice jobs in Columbus, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Maintenance Apprentice jobs in Columbus, GA are:

What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Maintenance Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Maintenance Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Maintenance Apprentice job openings in Columbus, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,511 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Birmingham, AL)

Norfolk Southern Corp.

Opelika, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform FRA-required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings

  • Install, maintain, and repair signal equipment including signal lights, switch machines, and electrical switch locks, crossing warning devices, interlocking systems, PTC, and cab signal systems

  • Read and interpret electrical schematics and technical diagrams


Job description

Requisition 40169: Electrical Apprentice Signal Trainee (Birmingham, AL)ย 

We are accepting applications to build a pipeline of qualified candidates for upcoming hiring needs. Candidates who successfully complete the hiring process may be considered for training classes between late 2026 and mid-2027, based on business needs and location availability.ย 

Descriptionย 

At Norfolk Southern, we believe that ourpeoplepower progress. Our culture is built on our SPIRIT values-Safety, Performance, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, and Teamwork-whichย guideย how we work, lead, and grow together. Ifyou'reready to launch a career in railroad signal maintenance and contribute to the safety and reliability of train operations, we invite you to explore the Apprentice Signal Trainee role.ย 

This hands-on, field-based position prepares individuals for a career in signal maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Apprentice Signal Trainees learn to install, inspect, andmaintainsignal systems that are critical to safe and efficient rail operations.ย 

What Should You Knowย 

  • This is a seniority-based union position.You willย be requiredย to bid onย available positions, which may beย locatedย outside your training location.Relocation may be necessary based on the outcome of the bid process.Relocationassistanceis not provided for this position.ย 

  • You must be available to work on-call, 24/7, includingholidays,nightsand weekends.ย 

  • Extensive travel isrequiredduring training (up to 75%).ย 

  • You willbe requiredto join the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) within60 daysofestablishingseniority.ย 

  • You must obtainย a Classย A CDL within90 daysof hire (training provided by Norfolk Southern)ย 

Trainingย 

Training lasts approximately52 weeksand includes both classroom and field instruction.ย 

Click on the link below tolearn more about our training program:ย 

https://vimeo.com/871474435/990fe84216ย 

  • Classroom Training:Three sessions (3 weeks each) at the NS Training Center in McDonough, GA. Hotel accommodations, mileage reimbursement, and meal stipends provided.ย 

  • Field Training:Hands-on experience with construction and maintenance crews across your seniority district.ย 

  • Evaluations:Periodic written and practical assessments.ย 

Successful completionof the training programplaces apprentices on the seniority roster and makes them eligible to bid on Signal Maintainerposition.ย 

SeniorityDistricts:ย 

  • Eastern Region North (ERN)ย 

  • Norfolk & Western (NW)ย 

  • Southern Lines East (SLE)ย 

  • Southern Lines West (SLW)ย 

  • WRE (Western Region East (WRE)ย 

  • Western Region West (WRW)ย 

A detailed overview of the seniority districts is available in the following video:https://statics.teams.cdn.office.net/evergreen-assets/safelinks/2/atp-safelinks.htmlย 

Job Responsibilitiesย 

  • Perform FRA-required inspections and testing of signal systems and grade crossings.ย 

  • Install,maintain, and repair signal equipment includingsignal lights, switch machines, and electrical switch locksย 

  • Crossing warning devices and interlocking systemsย 

  • Positive Train Control (PTC) and cab signal systemsย 

  • Read and interpret electrical schematics and technical diagrams.ย 

  • Operate hand tools, electrical testing instruments, and heavy equipmentย 

  • Accurately document inspections, repairs, and installations.ย 

  • Work safely in outdoor environments under varying weather conditions.ย 

  • Respond to on-call assignments, including nights and weekends.ย 

Qualifications - Requiredย 

  • You mustbe 18 years or older.ย 

  • High school diploma or GED.ย 

  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.ย 

  • You must obtainย a Classย A CDL within90 daysof hire (training provided by NorfolkSouthern)ย 

  • This includes passing acommercialdrivermedical certification examination.ย 

  • Must pass pre-employment Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) drug and alcohol screening.ย 

  • Must not have a conviction for, or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicledriverslicense for,operatinga motor vehicle while under the influence of or impaired by alcohol or a controlled substanceย 

  • In the past36 months,ย Mustย not have conviction for,or completed state action to cancel, revoke, suspend, or deny a motor vehicle driver's license for, refusal to undergo such testing as is required by State or foreign law when a law enforcement official seeks to determine whether a person is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substanceย 

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.ย 

Qualifications - Preferredย 

  • Technical certificate or associate degree in Electrical Technology, Electronics Engineering, or related field.ย 

  • OSHA 10/30, First Aid/CPR, TWIC card.ย 

  • 1-2 years in electrical, mechanical, or field service work.ย 

  • Strong mechanical and electrical aptitude.ย 

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.ย 

  • Proficient in basic computer applications (Excel, Word, Outlook).ย 

  • Effective time management and communication skills.ย 

Physical and Mental Job Requirementsย 

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.ย 

  • Capable of climbing, bending, stooping, and working at heights.ย 

  • Ability to walk long distances on uneven terrain.ย 

  • Must pass FRA/FMCSAphysical standardsincluding:ย 

  • Visual acuity (at least 20/40 in each eye separately and both together withorwithout corrective lenses).ย 

  • Color vision (must pass FRA-approved tests; lenses to improve color vision are notpermitted).ย 

  • Hearing (no hearing loss greater than 40B average at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in better ear; may be met with hearing aid).ย 

Work Conditionsย 

  • Outdoor field work in all weather conditions.ย 

  • Extensive travel during training (up to 75%).ย 

  • On-call and weekend availabilityrequired.ย 

  • Union membershiprequired(BRS).ย 

Compensation and Benefitsย 

  • Weeks 1-3 (Classroom): $1,200/weekย 

  • Apprentice Periods:ย 

  • First130 days: $36.48/hrย 

  • Second130 days: $36.85/hrย 

  • Post-Apprenticeship (Signal Maintainer): $37.98/hr+ย 

Benefits Include:ย 

  • Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hireย 

  • Health insurance (80/20 or 85/15 plan)ย 

  • $20,000 life insuranceย 

  • 401(k) eligibility from day oneย 

  • Dental and vision coverage after one year of serviceย 

Company Overview

Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is a Fortune 300 organization and one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern is a major transporter of industrial products, including chemicals, agriculture, and metals and construction materials. In addition, the railroad operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a principal carrier ofย coal, automobiles, and automotive parts.

At Norfolk Southern, we believe in celebrating our individuality. By leveraging the unique backgrounds and viewpoints of our employees, we can create a culture of innovation, respect, and inclusion. We know that employees thrive in a workplace where differing viewpoints, ideas, and experiences are freely shared and valued. As such, we encourage all employees to contribute their distinctive skills and capabilities to our organization.

Equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Together, we power progress.