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Operating Engineer Apprenticeship Jobs in Wisconsin

CNC Programmer III

Richfield, WI

$26.25 - $36/hr

Training & Apprenticeship Opportunities * Safety Shoe & Glasses Reimbursement Program * Gym ... Collaborates with machine operators, CNC machinists, and engineers to troubleshoot machining ...

Apprentice/CNC Technician

Fredonia, WI · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

KMC Stampings is a premier metal fabricator offering engineering and tooling expertise driven by ... operating with increased levels of independence. This is a company sponsored state apprenticeship ...

Nuclear Engineer

Bangor, WI

$96K - $116K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Middleton, WI

$98K - $118K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Mondovi, WI

$97K - $116K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Augusta, WI

$89K - $106K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Evansville, WI

$95K - $114K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Pulaski, WI

$96K - $116K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Laona, WI

$91K - $109K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Mount Pleasant, WI

$94K - $113K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Reeseville, WI

$97K - $117K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Mercer, WI

$99K - $118K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

King, WI

$95K - $114K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Appleton, WI

$96K - $115K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Marinette, WI

$90K - $107K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

Nuclear Engineer

Melrose, WI

$91K - $109K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

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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 Jun 25, 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 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 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.

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.
CNC Programmer III

$26.25 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

CNC PROGRAMMER III

BENEFITS

  • Medical & Vision Insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance Plans Available
  • Dental Insurance (Company paid)
  • STD and Life & AD&D Insurance (Company paid)
  • 401(K) Matching
  • PTO & Unpaid Excused Absences
  • Uniforms (Company paid)
  • Training & Apprenticeship Opportunities
  • Safety Shoe & Glasses Reimbursement Program
  • Gym Membership Reimbursement Program

JOB SUMMARY

CNC Programmer III creates and optimizes 3-axis and 5-axis programs for machining operations, ensuring the efficient and accurate production of parts while adhering to engineering specifications and production schedules. This role involves analyzing blueprints, selecting tooling, creating Powermill programs, and providing technical support to CNC operators and machinists.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Develops CNC programs using CAD/CAM software for 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machines.
  • Determines tool paths, speeds, feeds, and cutting parameters to optimize machining efficiency and quality.
  • Selects appropriate cutting tools, tool holders, and fixtures for each job.
  • Reviews engineering drawings, blueprints, and specifications to understand part requirements, tolerances, and materials.
  • Collaborates with machine operators, CNC machinists, and engineers to troubleshoot machining problems and implement process improvements.
  • Trains CNC Programmers on Powermill CAM and correct programming practices.

The above list reflects the general details describing the position's principles and essential functions. It shall not be construed as the only duties that may be assigned for the position. An individual in this position must successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • 2+ years of CNC programming experience.
  • 5+ years of experience working with CNC machinery.
  • Ability to read and interpret design blueprints.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and stick to a deadline.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • 5+ years of CNC programming experience.
  • Apprenticeship or vocational training.
  • High school degree or equivalent.
  • Previous experience with computer modeling software.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL DEMANDS

The physical and mental demands described here are representative of those that an employee must meet to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

  • Stand, walk, push, pull, reach overhead, and bend to the floor.
  • Exert 1 to 25 pounds of force 5% of the time.
  • Exert 26 to 50 pounds of force 5% of the time.
  • Exert 50 plus pounds of force 5% of the time.
  • Ability to read machine dial gages, blueprints, precision measuring instruments, and computer screens.
  • Read English and understand sketches, routings, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Communicate effectively with employees.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here represent those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

  • Office-based position. Occasionally required to perform work on the shop floor.
  • Moderate noise levels from operating machines.
  • Physical hazards from moving equipment and machine parts.
  • Machining fumes, dust, and mist.
  • Skin exposed to oils and cutting fluids.

Compensation details: 42-56 Hourly Wage


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