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Operating Engineer Apprenticeship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

No education required. * 6 months of operating engineer apprentice experience. * must be in good standing with in the union. Physical Demands/Requirements: * Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

No education required. * 6 months of operating engineer apprentice experience. Physical Demands/Requirements: * Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. * Be at least 18 years old (21 if operating ...

Operating Engineer

Little Rock, AR

$57K - $77.10K/yr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As an Operating Engineer, you will independently perform ... four year apprenticeship program in power plant operation or equivalent within Healthcare or ...

High school diploma or GED required; trade school or apprenticeship program preferred * Minimum of ... of Operating Engineers Local 94. * All terms and conditions of employment, including wages ...

Operating Engineer

Conroe, TX · On-site

$59.50K - $80.50K/yr

We are searching for an Operating Engineer -- someone who works well in a fast-paced setting. In ... DLA - Dept of Labor Apprenticeship by the Department of Labor * SMA - Systems Maint Administrator ...

Operating Engineer

Conroe, TX · On-site

$59.50K - $80.50K/yr

We are searching for an Operating Engineer -- someone who works well in a fast-paced setting. In ... DLA - Dept of Labor Apprenticeship by the Department of Labor * SMA - Systems Maint Administrator ...

Operating Engineer

Little Rock, AR

$57K - $77.10K/yr

As an Operating Engineer, you will independently perform journeyman-level duties, responsible for ... four year apprenticeship program in power plant operation or equivalent within Healthcare or ...

Operating Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$76K - $102.80K/yr

High school diploma or GED required; trade school or apprenticeship program preferred * Minimum of ... of Operating Engineers Local 94. * All terms and conditions of employment, including wages ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Houston, TX

$66.30K - $89.70K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Maintenance & Repairs Perform preventive maintenance and ... High School Diploma or GED (trade school/apprentice program preferred) * 4+ years of technical ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE • 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$69K - $93.30K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Seeking electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and facility operating ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related work ...

Operating Engineer

Chevy Chase, MD

$73.40K - $99.20K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... apprentice program or trade school preferred IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE 5+ years of related trade ...

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Operating Engineer Apprenticeship information

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$44K

$106.4K

$173.5K

How much do operating engineer apprenticeship jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer apprenticeship in the United States is $106,386.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,000.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to excel in an Operating Engineer Apprenticeship, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Engineer Apprentice, you need a strong mechanical aptitude, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with heavy equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, and loaders, along with safety certifications like OSHA 10, are commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help apprentices adapt to dynamic job sites and learn from experienced engineers. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient operation of complex machinery and support career advancement in the construction and engineering industries.

What kind of hands-on experience can I expect during an Operating Engineer Apprenticeship?

During an Operating Engineer Apprenticeship, you can expect to gain hands-on experience operating heavy machinery such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and loaders under the supervision of experienced journeypersons. Apprentices often rotate through different job sites and equipment to build a broad skill set, learning not only operation but also basic maintenance and safety procedures. You'll work closely with mentors and team members, developing both technical abilities and teamwork skills essential to the construction industry. This real-world experience is complemented by classroom instruction to ensure you’re well-prepared for advancement in the field.

What is an Operating Engineer Apprenticeship?

An Operating Engineer Apprenticeship is a structured training program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to prepare individuals for a career as an operating engineer. Operating engineers operate and maintain heavy equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators used in construction, roadwork, and other industries. Apprenticeships typically last three to four years and provide apprentices with the skills and certifications needed for the job. Completion of the program often leads to journey-level status and increased employment opportunities. Apprentices are usually paid while they learn, making it an attractive pathway into the trades.

What is the difference between Operating Engineer Apprenticeship vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectOperating Engineer ApprenticeshipHeavy Equipment Operator
CredentialsApprenticeship program, certifications in machinery operationTypically requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) and on-the-job experience
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, power plants, industrial facilitiesConstruction sites, mining, landscaping, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageUnion and non-union construction and industrial companiesConstruction firms, mining companies, government agencies

Both roles involve operating heavy machinery, but the Operating Engineer Apprenticeship provides formal training and certification, often leading to a broader range of machinery and industrial systems. Heavy Equipment Operators typically focus on specific machinery and may have more on-the-job training. The apprenticeship offers a structured pathway into the industry with potential for career advancement.

More about Operating Engineer Apprenticeship jobs
What states have the most Operating Engineer Apprenticeship jobs? States with the most job openings for Operating Engineer Apprenticeship jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer Apprenticeship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer Apprenticeship jobs are:

$24.97/hr

Contractor

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Application Instructions
When you are ready to apply, please submit a complete and accurate online application including as much information regarding your past work experience as possible. If your skills and experience align with what we are looking for to fill this role, we will contact you directly with the next steps in our process.
Position Description
Core Values
All SB employees are expected to support and exemplify SB's core values:
1. Learn, innovate, & grow
We believe in the power of ideas, the courage to challenge former ways of doing things, the willingness to change, and the fact that everyone has a voice.
2. Listen, really listen
Listening is a commitment to give value to another's words and ideas. Listening to hear - not just to respond - creates a teamwork culture that's empowering.
3. Have each others' backs
The feeling that we're in this together builds a sense of common purpose. We look out for each other, seek out safer practices, and speak out when it's necessary.
4. Always act with integrity
It requires a high degree of personal pride to give your best, hold yourself to the highest quality standards, and do the right thing-even when no one is watching.
5. Respect all relationships
Our goal is to always be a good partner and operate in a manner that reflects well on the company. Our interactions and impressions are part of leaving legacies.
Union Membership
As a signatory of the Heavy Constructors of Greater Kansas City , SB hires the following classifications of operating engineers from the Operating Engineers Local 101 in the Kansas City Metro Area:
  • Apprentice Operating Engineer
  • Journeyperson Operating Engineer

Non-union applicants are encouraged to apply; however, maintaining union membership in good standing with a union local within our operational jurisdiction is a condition of employment.
Union Wage Rates
Wage rates are set during the collective bargaining process between the Heavy Constructors Association contractors and unions. 2022 wage rates for operating engineers are as follows effective 1 April 2022:
Basic Wage Rate Fringe Benefits Rate Straight Time Hourly Rate Overtime Hourly Rate Apprentice Operator 65% $24.97 $20.84 $45.81 $58.30 Apprentice Operator 75% $28.82 $20.84 $49.66 $64.06 Apprentice Operator 85% $32.66 $20.84 $53.50 $69.83 Group I Operator $38.42 $20.84 $59.26 $78.47 Group II Operator $37.38 $20.84 $58.22 $76.91 Group III Operator: Mechanic's Helper Field $35.70 $20.84 $56.54 $74.39 Oiler $32.91 $20.84 $53.75 $70.21 Oiler Driver $36.26 $20.84 $57.10 $75.23 Mechanic Permanent Shop $37.07 $20.84 $57.91 $76.45 Mechanic's Helper Shop $30.72 $20.84 $51.56 $66.92
In the Heavy Constructors Association union system, overtime rates are as follows:
  • Any hour after 10 hours in a single workday
  • Any hour after 40 hours in a single work week (work weeks are Sunday thru Saturday)

Note that basic wage rates and overtime rates can fluctuate from job to job depending on (1) the wage rate effective at the contract bid date and (2) whether a prevailing wage determination is controlling for a particular public works contract.
Position Requirements
Apprenticeship Program
Applicants who do not have at least three full years of verifiable professional experience in the heavy construction industry likely need to apply as applicants for the unions' apprenticeship programs. For apprenticeship information, requirements, and class schedules, see:
  • Local 101 Apprenticeship Program Info
  • Local 101 Apprenticeship Program Application (816-640-2336)
Drug, Alcohol, Violence, & Discrimination-Free Workplace
SB is a drug-, alcohol-, violence-, and discrimination-free workplace. All offers of employment are contingent upon completing pre-employment drug screens. Drugs, alcohol, weapons, and violent or discriminatory behavior of any kind are prohibited at all times. SB maintains a drug and alcohol random testing program for every level of employment.
OSHA 10-Hour for Construction
Missouri state statute requires public works construction workers to obtain an OSHA 10-Hour for Construction certification. Members of all four unions affiliated with the Heavy Constructors Association of Greater Kansas City may obtain this training at no cost through the Construction Industry Laborers Training Fund. SB union member employees who do not yet have this certification are required to complete this training within 60 calendar days from the first day of employment.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Superior Bowen is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, national origin or any other legally protected status.