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Millwright Apprentice Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Millwright I

Merced, CA

$26.75 - $35/hr

The Millwright I performs tasks involving physical labor at heavy construction projects. The position may operate a variety of hand and power tools and may clean and prepare sites, assist in ...

Millwright Apprentice information

See Merced, CA salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do millwright apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for millwright apprentice in Merced, CA is $22.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $28.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a millwright apprentice do?

A millwright apprentice assists experienced millwrights in installing, maintaining, and repairing industrial machinery and equipment. They learn to read blueprints, use hand and power tools, and follow safety protocols while gaining practical skills in mechanical systems and troubleshooting. The role often involves working in manufacturing plants, factories, or power plants and may require completing an apprenticeship program or technical training.

How to be a millwright with no experience?

Becoming a millwright apprentice with no experience typically involves completing a high school diploma or equivalent, gaining basic mechanical skills, and applying to apprenticeship programs that provide on-the-job training and technical education. Demonstrating strong problem-solving abilities, physical fitness, and a willingness to learn can improve your chances of starting in this trade.

What Is a Millwright Apprentice?

A millwright designs, builds, installs, repairs, and maintains mills and similar machinery for a variety of industries, such as automotive, food processing, or nuclear. As a millwright apprentice, you learn this trade from a journeyman millwright or private company and work with systems like conveyors, compressors, and processing equipment. You typically help with a range of daily duties, including dismantling machines, constructing foundations, and installing components.

How much does a millwright apprentice earn?

A millwright apprentice typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the stage of their apprenticeship. As they gain skills and certifications, their wages generally increase, and they may also receive benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

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

To thrive as a Millwright Apprentice, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, blueprint reading, and, in some regions, enrollment in a recognized apprenticeship program are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively make you stand out in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient installation, maintenance, and repair of industrial machinery in demanding work environments.

What are millwright apprentices?

Millwright apprentices are individuals who are training to become skilled millwrights. They work under the supervision of experienced millwrights, learning how to install, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot industrial machinery and equipment. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, covering topics such as blueprint reading, machinery alignment, hydraulics, and safety protocols. This hands-on experience prepares apprentices for a career as a certified millwright, often leading to well-paying positions in manufacturing, construction, and other industries.

Is 30 too old for an apprenticeship?

Millwright apprenticeships are open to individuals of various ages, including those in their 30s. Age is generally not a barrier, and many apprentices start later in life, bringing valuable experience and skills to the program. Success depends on motivation, physical ability, and commitment to learning the trade.

What are some common challenges Millwright Apprentices face during their training, and how can they overcome them?

Millwright Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, mastering a wide variety of tools and machinery, and understanding detailed technical blueprints. Balancing on-the-job learning with classroom instruction can also be demanding. To overcome these challenges, apprentices are encouraged to ask questions, seek guidance from experienced journeymen, and consistently review safety procedures. Embracing a proactive attitude toward learning and safety will help apprentices build confidence and progress successfully through their training.

What is the difference between Millwright Apprentice vs Millwright?

AspectMillwright ApprenticeMillwright
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or GED; apprenticeship programs often include on-the-job training and technical coursesRequires completion of an apprenticeship or technical training, along with experience
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised, working under experienced millwrightsFull responsibility for installation, maintenance, and repair of machinery in industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in manufacturing, construction, and industrial sectorsSkilled trades in manufacturing plants, power plants, and industrial facilities

The main difference between a Millwright Apprentice and a Millwright is experience and responsibility. An apprentice is in training, gaining skills under supervision, while a Millwright is a fully qualified professional responsible for complex machinery work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Millwright jobs in Merced, CA? The most popular types of Millwright jobs in Merced, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Millwright Apprentice jobs in Merced, CA? For Millwright Apprentice jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Millwright Apprentice jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Millwright Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Millwright Apprentice job openings in Merced, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,380 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

$26.75 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

  • Summary/Objective: The Millwright I performs tasks involving physical labor at heavy construction projects. The position may operate a variety of hand and power tools and may clean and prepare sites, assist in installing conveyor systems, assist in installing safety guarding, assist in installing platforms and catwalks, clean up debris and remove waste materials. The position may assist other workers.
  • Essential Functions:
    Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  1. Performs a variety of tasks involving strenuous manual labor in heavy construction projects; performs manual work in preparing work environment.
  2. Maintains a clean job site: picks up all tools and equipment and secures job site each day to eliminate potential hazards.
  3. Performs materials handling and storage.
  4. Loads and unloads trucks and hauls and hoists materials.
  5. Ensures that proper safety and incident reporting procedures are followed. Brings problems to the attention of the project supervisor or safety manager.
  • Competencies:

  1. Communication Proficiency.
  2. Customer/Client Focus.
  3. Diversity and Inclusion.
  4. Results Driven.
  5. Stress Management/Composure.
  6. Teamwork Orientation.
  • Supervisory Responsibility: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

  • Work Environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles, moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to a variety of extreme conditions at construction job sites. The noise level in the work environment and job sites can be loud. The position regularly works near moving mechanical parts and in outside conditions that include inclement weather, heat and humidity, and exposure to dust and asphalt.

  • Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

    The position lifts heavy objects, walks and stands for long periods of time and performs strenuous physical labor under adverse field conditions. The employee lifts, pushes, pulls or carries objects; uses abdominal and lower back muscles to provide support over time without fatigue; and effectively jumps, sprints or throws objects. The position requires good manual dexterity (hand, hand with arm, two hands) and multi-limb coordination. The position requires the ability to quickly move arms and legs. The employee must have excellent stamina.

  • Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work vary depending on the needs of the customer. This position frequently requires long hours and weekend work.

  • Travel: This position requires frequent travel, more than 75% travel. Most travel is outside the local area and overnight.