Building America's Future
Ever since you were a kid, you wanted to drive heavy equipment and build roads and bridges, buildings and airports.
You wanted to be part of building America's future.
Now, you're closer than ever as you begin the first of a four-part challenge to become an apprentice Operating Engineer.
It's a competition for a limited number of openings, and you are the only one who can determine if you're better than your
competitors.
Application
There are several forms to fill out, and each must be done accurately and truthfully, and any requests for information must be supplied by a specific date and must be on time.
Testing
Once your completed application and a $10 application fee are submitted, you will be advised when and where you must appear
to take a four-hour series of trade-related tests.
They include math, reading, mechanical aptitude, abstract reasoning, manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Upon completion you will be informed of test scores, or you will be informed of a time to be interviewed. Once again,
be on time.
Interview
If you have proven to be better than your competitors, you will be chosen for an interview. Only the highest scoring
applications will achieve this level.
Interviews will be conducted by one union and one contractor representative. Applicants selected will participate in a
12-hour Pre-Apprenticeship Orientation.
Pre-Apprenticeship Orientation
This component will let you know "what it takes to be an Operating Engineer." It combines classroom instruction with in-the-seat training on heavy equipment in all kinds of weather.
Additional Responsibilities
In addition to on-the-job training, an apprentice is expected to attend a minimum of 160 hours of training each year at
one of Local 18's training centers. These are scheduled with 40 hours each in the fall and spring and 80 hours in the winter.
Each block is held over five consecutive 8-hour days, Monday through Friday.
Apprentices who are employed at the trade when classes are scheduled will be required to leave those jobs and report to the
training center. They will not be paid for these training hours.
To graduate from the Apprenticeship Program requires:
- 160 hours at the training site each year for four years
- Commercial Drivers License (Class B) to be obtained during first year of apprenticeship
- Machine upgrades (proficiency) on one machine per year in each year of the four year program
- 4,000 hours of on-the-job training (OJT)
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