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Operating Engineer Apprenticeship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC

$64K - $87K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary This position supports the Assistant and/or Chief Engineer and ... Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred Job Responsibilities * Ensure ongoing ...

Operating Engineer

Houston, TX

$66K - $89K/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

Concord, NC

$64K - $87K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary This position supports the Assistant and/or Chief Engineer and ... Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred Job Responsibilities * Ensure ongoing ...

Operating Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary This position supports the Assistant and/or Chief Engineer and ... Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred Job Responsibilities * Ensure ongoing ...

Operating Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$74K - $100K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC

$64K - $87K/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 ...

Must be a current member of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 399 Engineer Apprenticeship program * Must be enrolled in apprenticeship program through IUOE Local 399 * Must ...

Operating Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$66K - $89K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC

$64K - $87K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC

$64K - $87K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$66K - $89K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$66K - $89K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Concord, NC · On-site

$64K - $87K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$66K - $89K/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 ...

Operating Engineer

Hot Springs, AR

$56K - $76K/yr

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

Engineer Apprentice

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25/hr

Must be a current member of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 399 Engineer Apprenticeship program * Must be enrolled in apprenticeship program through IUOE Local 399 * Must ...

Showing results 21-40

Operating Engineer Apprenticeship information

See salary details

$44K

$106.4K

$173.5K

How much do operating engineer apprenticeship jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 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 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.

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:

$64K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 204 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title

Operating Engineer

Job Description Summary

This position supports the Assistant and/or Chief Engineer and Sr. Facilities Manager in the day-to-day maintenance, repair, and efficient operation of all building systems and equipment on behalf of the client. This position supports the Assistant and/or Chief Engineer and Sr. Facilities Manager in the day-to-day maintenance, repair, and efficient operation of all building systems and equipment on behalf of the client.
The Engineer will accurately and perform timely routine operation, inspection, maintenance, and repairs all HVAC, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing equipment, and systems in assigned facilities to obtain the most efficient operating results and life expectancy. Can include HVAC, boiler, heating, refrigeration, water, and energy systems to ensure the effective operation of the client facility.
Position assures that equipment is being maintained in an energy-efficient and safe manner, and downtime is reduced to a minimum by anticipation of necessary repairs and maintaining records of past operating experiences. Performs inspections and repairs to assigned property interior and exterior areas, including walls and flooring, installed fixtures, roofing systems, lighting, etc.
The Engineer will perform at the highest of ethical standards, reflecting the core values of C&W as defined in its Code of Conduct, Policies and Procedures Manual, and other related company policies.

Job Description

Years of Relevant Experience

  • Minimum of four (4) years of technical experience in all aspects of building engineering with strong background in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, equipment repair and maintenance, and overall system design and application

Licenses or Certifications

  • Valid state driver's license

  • Appropriate license/permit for trade as required (Journeyman/Master Electrician, City License, Operators License, Steam Engineers License, etc.)

  • Universal EPA Section 608 certification for CFC and HFC-based refrigerants

Education

  • High School Diploma or GED required

  • Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred

Job Responsibilities

  • Ensure ongoing preventive maintenance and repair work orders on facility mechanical, electrical, lighting, and other installed systems, equipment, and components

  • Maintain, operate, and repair all HVAC systems and associated equipment, electrical distribution equipment, plumbing systems, building interior/exterior repair, and related grounds for assigned client buildings

  • Perform major HVAC repairs (compressor, condenser, evaporator coil replacements, etc.)

  • Perform major plumbing replacements (domestic water piping, steam trap repairs, sewage line repairs, bathroom fixture repairs, etc.)

  • Perform electrical repairs (running/bending conduit, pulling cables, electrical panel maintenance, electric motor maintenance, predictive maintenance)

  • Conduct facility inspections and due diligence efforts; report conditions impacting client occupancy and operations

  • Operate, maintain, and repair:

    • Boilers, heaters, pumps, valves, and steam/water distribution lines

    • Refrigerant systems (compressors, condensers, evaporators, valves, refrigerant lines, air conditioning systems)

    • Pumps for water or secondary refrigerating liquids

    • Air compressors and distribution systems

    • Water filters, softeners, piping, pumps, sinks, toilets, drains, sprinkler systems

    • Electrical motors and engines powering pumps, compressors, and fans

  • Maintain elevators (except where serviced by specialized contractors)

  • Operate, maintain, and repair building automation systems for HVAC (consoles, data panels, sensors, indicators)

  • Maintain sanitary sewer systems, sump pumps, basins, water closets, urinals, and piping

  • Maintain and repair trash compactors (electrical and hydraulic systems)

  • Maintain and repair kitchen equipment (excluding tenant-owned equipment)

  • Recommend improvements to preventive maintenance program

  • Maintain stock and inventory control

  • Comply with all codes, regulations, and company directives related to building operations and safe work practices

  • Study and become familiar with equipment and systems at assigned locations (building automation, fire/life safety systems, etc.)

  • Submit monthly reports to keep management informed of building operations

  • Comply with safety procedures, maintain good housekeeping, and ensure safe work areas

  • Recognize hazards and propose solutions or use proper PPE

  • Respond effectively to emergencies (may require light travel during events)

  • Maintain all required Federal, State, or Local licenses

  • Complete all required C&W Safety Training annually

  • Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code and maintain a neat appearance

  • Perform other operational tasks typically expected of the Engineer role

General Maintenance May Include

  • Repairs on toilet facilities (including soap dispensers)

  • Repairs on registers and radiators

  • Replacement of lamps and cleaning of light fixtures

  • Removing ceiling tiles

  • Minor repairs on furniture and floors

  • Maintaining/replacing door hardware

  • Repair of floor maintenance equipment and Venetian blinds

  • Maintenance painting in equipment rooms, cooling towers, and other facilities

  • Assist in replacing HVAC filters

  • General cleaning in mechanical spaces and perimeter induction units

  • Cleanup of equipment in engine room and shop

  • Miscellaneous handyman work using hand tools

  • Replace fire extinguishers when needed

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • Experience in operation, maintenance, and basic repair of HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, gas lines, water systems

  • Knowledgeable in energy management systems, techniques, and operations

  • Thorough knowledge of all building systems operations, maintenance, and repair

  • Excellent interpersonal skills for tenant, client, and vendor interactions

  • Proficient computer skills required to navigate work order systems, including Outlook, Excel, Word, and ability to use smartphones/tablets for uploading documents and joining virtual meetings (Teams, Zoom, etc.)

Physical Work Requirements

  • Ability to stoop, stand, climb, and frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs.

  • Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment

  • Movement between departments, floors, and properties

  • Ability to speak clearly and read/understand information presented orally and in writing

  • Vision abilities for reading printed material, drawings, and schematics


Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate's experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $31.61 - $37.19Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or emailAccommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.

INCO: "Cushman & Wakefield"

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