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Operating Engineer Apprenticeship Jobs in Wisconsin

Senior CNC Programmer

Richfield, WI · On-site

$42 - $56/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Collaborate with machinists, operators, engineers, and manufacturing teams to improve processes and ... Apprenticeship, technical degree, or equivalent training * Experience with fixture design and ...

Senior CNC Programmer

Richfield, WI

$42 - $56/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Collaborate with machinists, operators, engineers, and manufacturing teams to improve processes and ... Apprenticeship, technical degree, or equivalent training * Experience with fixture design and ...

Senior CNC Programmer

Richfield, WI · On-site

$42 - $56/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Collaborate with machinists, operators, engineers, and manufacturing teams to improve processes and ... Apprenticeship, technical degree, or equivalent training * Experience with fixture design and ...

Learns PLCs and works with Automation Engineers in a laboratory environment.Learnsto perform work ... operators, and operate equipment to detect equipment problems, analyze malfunctions, and verify ...

Gain experience operating CNC equipment and learning basic machining and programming principles ... Participate in apprenticeship training, classroom instruction, and on-the-job learning ...

Field Services Engineer I

Madison, WI · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

... equipment operating safely, this is an excellent opportunity. What you'll do: Install, maintain ... and apprenticeships welcome) Strong troubleshooting, communication, and organizational skills ...

Field Services Engineer I

Madison, WI · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

... equipment operating safely, this is an excellent opportunity. What you'll do: Install, maintain ... and apprenticeships welcome) Strong troubleshooting, communication, and organizational skills ...

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Showing results 1-20

Operating Engineer Apprenticeship information

See Wisconsin salary details

$44.4K

$107.4K

$175.1K

How much do operating engineer apprenticeship jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer apprenticeship in Wisconsin is $107,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,700.00 and $133,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer Apprenticeship jobs in Wisconsin?

For Operating Engineer Apprenticeship jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer Apprenticeship jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer Apprenticeship jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer Apprenticeship job openings in Wisconsin as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,381 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

$16 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description

NASL is seeking a Maintenance Apprentice who supports the reliability and safety of production by assisting with preventive maintenance, basic repairs, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement projects across multiple departments and facilities. This entry-level role combines hands-on work with structured training to build foundational skills in mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems. 


Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, 

  • Perform Preventative Maintenance tasks (lubrication, inspections, adjustments, filter changes) per schedule and document work in the CMMS. 
  • Assist technicians in diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic issues to minimize downtime. 
  • Follow Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), machine guarding, and hazard communication procedures at all times; maintain clean, safe work areas (5S). 
  • Routinely check belts, bearings, chains, knives, cutters, dust collection connections, and guards; replace consumable materials/parts. 
  • Use a multimeter to verify voltage, continuity, and fuses; replace cord ends, sensors, and limit switches as needed. 
  • Inspect air lines, regulators, valves, cylinders, and hydraulic hoses; assist in replacing seals and tightening fittings. 
  • Help maintain compressors, dust collection systems, lighting, HVAC, and emergency systems. 
  • Log work orders, parts used, and downtime causes; update equipment history and contribute to root-cause notes. 
  • Assist with squaring, alignment, machine offsets, and simple calibration checks. 
  • Installation and movement of equipment within the facility. 
  • Shadow senior technicians on complex repairs. 
  • Source and purchase replacement equipment, tools, and parts when directed. 
  • Work independently to complete list of projects in timely fashion. 
  • Maintain clear communication with senior technicians and operators. 

Requirements

Education, Experience, and Skills 

  • High school diploma or GED. 
  • Basic mechanical aptitude; able to use hand/power tools and read a tape, calipers, and micrometers. 
  • Fundamental electrical knowledge (AC/DC basics, reading simple schematics and basic PLC inputs/outputs). 
  • Two years of manufacturing environment experience. 
  • Willingness to work safely and follow procedures. 
  • Technical diploma/certificate (Industrial Maintenance, Mechatronics, Electrical, HVAC, or similar) preferred.
  • Welding experience.
  • Experience in a manufacturing environment (wood products/cabinetry a plus). 
  • Familiarity with 5S, LOTO, dust collection fundamentals. 
  • Troubleshooting mindset; curious and systematic, solution oriented. 
  • Clear communication with operators, engineers, and leadership. 
  • Time management-able to prioritize PMs vs. urgent repairs. 
  • Teamwork and coachability; accepts feedback and applies learning. 
  • Computer literacy (ERP, email, basic spreadsheets). 
  • Ability to uphold company Core Values of Integrity, Solutions, Service and Quality as part of the NASL Team. 
  • Ability to work in the following environment: Industrial manufacturing floor with moderate to high noise and heat levels.Â