Operating Engineer at International Union of Operating Engineers Local #917
at International Union of Operating Engineers Local #917 in Niota, TN
About This Program
The Operating Engineer Apprenticeship sponsored by International Union of Operating Engineers Local #917 is a union JATC program based in Niota, TN. This registered apprenticeship prepares individuals to operate heavy construction equipment on job sites across the region, with the full backing of an established labor union and its training infrastructure.
The program runs for four years and combines 6,000 hours of paid on-the-job training with 432 hours of related technical instruction. Apprentices learn to safely operate equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, cranes, and graders. Classroom instruction covers equipment maintenance, safety regulations, grade-setting, and site preparation techniques. Apprentices earn wages from day one, with pay typically increasing as they advance through the program.
Upon completing the apprenticeship, graduates earn journeyman status as Operating Engineers — a credential recognized across union job sites nationwide. Journeyman Operating Engineers are in consistent demand in construction, infrastructure, and civil engineering projects, making this a strong foundation for a long-term career in the trades.
Wage & Training
OJT Hours
6,000
RTI Hours
432
Duration
4 years
How to Apply
What to Expect as an Operating Engineer Apprentice
Duration
4 years of combined on-the-job training and classroom instruction
On-the-Job Training
~30 hours/week of hands-on work under journeyman supervision (6,000 total hours)
Classroom Instruction
432 hours of related technical instruction (~108 hours/year)
Paid Training
You earn a wage from day one, starting at a percentage of the journeyman rate and increasing as you progress
Time-based program: You'll progress through the program based on completing a set number of hours in both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
This is a union-affiliated program. Union apprenticeships typically offer strong benefits packages, pension contributions, and structured career advancement through the local hall.
Trade School vs. Apprenticeship for Operating Engineer
Apprenticeship
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