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Natural Gas Apprentice Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

NWI Defense

Maintenance Technician / LME

Albany, OR · On-site

... Natural gas fired furnaces, facility systems, and production support equipment to minimize downtime ... Technical school, apprenticeship, or industrial maintenance certifications preferred PREFERRED ...

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Natural Gas Apprentice information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$21

$39

How much do natural gas apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for natural gas apprentice in Oregon is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a natural gas apprentice do?

As a natural gas apprentice, your job is to work your way through a training program and learn how to install, repair, and service natural gas systems. Most natural gas apprentices focus specifically on pipes and distribution systems rather than devices that use natural gas, though individual companies may teach different products. In this role, you may learn more about safety techniques, practice detecting leaks, and otherwise ensure that pipes have the correct fit. This job title refers exclusively to working with natural gas pipes and systems. It does not apply to drilling jobs that harvest natural gas from the ground.

What does a natural gas apprentice do?

A Natural Gas Apprentice works under the supervision of experienced technicians to learn how to install, maintain, and repair natural gas lines and related equipment. Their duties often include assisting with pipeline inspections, helping with leak detection, and following strict safety protocols. Apprentices receive both on-the-job training and classroom instruction to build their technical skills and knowledge of industry regulations. This role is essential for ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of natural gas to customers.

What are some common challenges faced by natural gas apprentices during their training period?

Natural Gas Apprentices often encounter challenges such as adapting to physically demanding tasks, learning complex safety protocols, and mastering the use of specialized tools and equipment. Working in varying weather conditions and responding to emergency situations can also be demanding. However, apprentices are supported by experienced mentors and structured training, which helps them gradually build confidence and competence in the field.

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

To thrive as a Natural Gas Apprentice, you need a foundational understanding of mechanical systems, safety protocols, and basic math, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as pipe threaders, gas detectors, and adherence to OSHA safety standards are typically required, along with participation in on-the-job training programs. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure safety, efficient operation, and successful integration into skilled trade teams in a high-risk environment.

What is the difference between Natural Gas Apprentice vs Natural Gas Technician?

AspectNatural Gas ApprenticeNatural Gas Technician
CertificationsTypically in training, may require basic safety or technical coursesRequires relevant certifications, such as gas safety or technical licenses
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training, supervised work sites, learning phaseFull-time work on gas systems, maintenance, and repairs
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in utility companies, contractors, or construction firmsSkilled worker employed by utility companies or service providers

The main difference is that a Natural Gas Apprentice is in training and gaining experience, while a Natural Gas Technician is a qualified professional performing maintenance, repairs, and system installations. Apprenticeship prepares individuals for a technician role, which requires more experience and certifications.

More about Natural Gas Apprentice jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Natural Gas jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Natural Gas jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Natural Gas Apprentice jobs in Oregon?

For Natural Gas Apprentice jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Natural Gas Apprentice jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Natural Gas Apprentice jobs in Oregon are:

Natural Gas Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Natural Gas Apprentice job openings in Oregon 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 $45,498 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Maintenance Technician / LME

NWI Defense

Albany, OR • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain CNC machines, Mechanical Forging Presses, and facility systems to minimize downtime.

  • Perform preventative and predictive maintenance on CNC machines and facility equipment, and support equipment installation, upgrades, and machine moves.

  • Diagnose electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic issues, and support facility maintenance needs including compressors and coolant systems.

Job description

Maintenance Technician/LME
Job Description
Report To: Technical Director
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Salary Level: Hourly
Shift: Days (Some swing may be required)
POSTION SUMMARY
We are seeking a hands-on Maintenance Technician / LME to support the operation, reliability, and continuous improvement of our CNC machining facility. This role is responsible for troubleshooting, repairing, maintaining, and improving CNC machines, Mechanical Forging Presses, Natural gas fired furnaces, facility systems, and production support equipment to minimize downtime and support production goals. The ideal candidate is mechanically and electrically skilled, able to work independently, and comfortable in a fast-paced manufacturing environment supporting precision machining operations.ESSENTIAL DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES amp; ACCOUNTABILITIES
include the following:
  • Troubleshoot and repair Forging amp; CNC machining equipment and manufacturing systems
  • Diagnose electrical, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic issues
  • Perform preventative and predictive maintenance on CNC machines and facility equipment
  • Support machine uptime and quickly respond to production downtime events
  • Troubleshoot electrical control systems including:
    • Motors
    • Drives
    • Sensors
    • Relays
    • Contactors
    • VFDs
    • Fanuc-controlled systems
  • Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and machine manuals
  • Perform electrical repairs and component replacement within LME licensing scope
  • Assist with equipment installation, upgrades, and machine moves
  • Maintain preventative maintenance schedules and maintenance documentation
  • Work closely with Operations, Engineering, and Production teams to prioritize repairs and improvements
  • Support facility maintenance needs including compressors, coolant systems, and support equipment
  • Maintain a safe and organized work environment Work closely with Operations, Manufacturing Engineering, and Production teams to prioritize repairs and improvements
Accountabilities of All Employees
  • Using your best efforts and full capability daily to the work assigned to you by your manager
  • Advising your manager if you do not understand the work, they have assigned to you, or if the assignment does not fit with your knowledge of the circumstances, current skills or available time and resources.
  • Advising your manager of any situations or obstacles that could keep you from accomplishing the work assigned to you.
  • Advising your manager of any situations or opportunities that could help you complete or improve the work assigned to you.
  • Demonstrating work behaviors consistent with the company values and work within prescribed boundaries, including company policies, standards, procedures and any legislative requirements – Core Competencies of SuccessFactors.
ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Maintains safe operations by keeping work area clean and organized and by adhering to safety procedures and regulations.
  • Maintains equipment by completing basic preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer's instructions; initiating repair work orders.
  • Maintains continuity among work shifts by documenting and communicating actions, irregularities, and continuing needs.
  • Documents actions by completing required paper etc.
  • Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading technical publications, etc.
  • Participate in required meetings amp; trainings
  • Able to cross train into other departments as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Current Oregon Limited Maintenance Electrician (LME) license required
  • 3+ years of industrial maintenance experience preferred
  • Experience supporting CNC machining equipment strongly preferred
  • Strong troubleshooting skills in:
    • Industrial electrical systems
    • Hydraulics
    • Pneumatics
    • Mechanical systems
    • Servo and motion control systems
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical documentation
  • Familiarity with industrial control systems and CNC controls
  • Welding, fabrication, or machining experience is a plus
  • Ability to work independently with limited supervision
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Technical school, apprenticeship, or industrial maintenance certifications preferred
PREFERRED EQUIPMENT EXPERIENCE
Experience with one or more of the following is preferred:
  • DMG MORI
  • Fanuc controls
  • Mazak
  • Haas
  • CNC lathes and machining centers
  • Air compressor systems
  • Coolant systems
  • Industrial facility electrical systems
DESIRED TRAITS
  • Strong sense of ownership and urgency
  • Self-motivated problem solver
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Team-oriented mindset
  • Commitment to safety, quality, and reliability
  • Continuous improvement mindset
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. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The table below illustrates the frequency and types of physical requirements for this job.
Physical Requirements
Frequency
required to lift/carry objects weighing less than 15 pounds
routinely (26% - 75%)
lift/carry objects weighing between 15 and 44 pounds
rarely (0% - 5%)
required to lift/carry objects weighing 45 pounds and over
rarely (0% - 5%)
stand
often ( gt; 75%)
walk
routinely (26% - 75%)
Kneel or sit
rarely (0% - 5%)
climb
rarely (0% - 5%)
reach above the shoulders
routinely (26% - 75%)
use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls
routinely (26% - 75%)
Vision - close
often ( gt; 75%)
Vision - distant
rarely (0% - 5%)
Vision – color perception
rarely (0% - 5%)
Repetitive Motion / Repetitive Work
rarely (0% - 5%)
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The table below illustrates the frequency and elements the work environment for this job.
Element
Frequency
Exposure to moving mechanical parts
often ( gt; 75%)
Exposure to toxic chemicals
occasionally ( lt;10%)
Risk of Electrical Shock
rarely (0% - 5%)
Nominal Noise Level
lt;80 db routinely
Peak/Occasional Noise Level
gt;81 db rarely

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