Operating Engineers Local 4 has a long history of delivering world-class results, and we’re excited that you’re interested in joining us. When you enter Local 4’s Apprenticeship and Training Program, you join a community of more than 5,000 members across New England. Our excellence starts with the apprenticeship and training opportunities we provide at our facilities in Canton and Medway, Massachusetts.

To meet our basic qualifications, Apprentices need to:

  • Be 18 years of age or older.
  • Be capable of performing the work of the trade (see Apprentice Job Description)
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Reside within Local 4’s jurisdiction. Check your eligibility.
  • Be a citizen or otherwise meet the requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.
  • Must have a driving record that won’t prohibit you from obtaining a CDL license.
  • Have a valid motor vehicle driver’s license in your possession.
  • Have a Social Security card in your possession.
  • Have an appointment scheduled through our office.
Applications open in November. Please see Notice of Public Distribution for more information.

1) Familiarity with the following equipment through completion of Basic Equipment Skills and on-the-job training:

  • C.D.L./Grease Truck
  • Clam/Gradall
  • Crawler Crane
  • Dozer
  • Excavator
  • Forklift
  • Grader
  • Hydraulic/Truck Crane
  • Loader/Backhoe-Loader
  • Skidsteer/Roller

2) Ability to successfully demonstrate proficiency in the following categories and evidenced by the ability to pass the Training Standards Project Examination (T.S.P.) (Minimum of two categories):

  • Crane
  • Dozer
  • Excavator
  • Loader
  • Maintenance

3) Ability to use the tools and/or equipment, including but not limited to:

  • Welding and cutting equipment
  • Hand tools lubricating equipment (i.e., grease guns, oil cans, etc.)
  • Pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric power tools.

4) Ability to perform related functions, including but not limited to:

  • Understand and follow directions; read and comprehend schematic diagrams and manual
  • Read gauges
  • Knowledge of verbal and physical commands
  • Maintain and clean equipment
  • Operate controls of equipment
  • Ability to react quickly in unexpected emergencies
  • Complete familiarity with and adherence to safety procedures

5) Initiative, motivation, and responsibility.

6) Ability to do the following work with others. In order to perform these essential job functions, all apprentices must have spatial aptitude, motor coordination, and manual dexterity, as well as, the ability to do the following:

  • Work requiring full-time and overtime hours outdoors in all types of weather
  • Be punctual and dependable
  • Take orders, work well and in harmony with other tradespeople, and be respectful
  • Communicate through hand signals with others; sit, stand, lift and/or carry for 10 hours or more per day
  • Lift a minimum of 50 pounds on a regular basis; work in enclosed spaces for significant periods of time
  • Climb a minimum of 25 feet
  • Ability to visualize target points, position machinery accurately, and pick up and deliver loads
  • Grasp and manipulate small and large tools, equipment, and controls
  • Be able to perform different operations with hands and feet simultaneously, and coordinate eyes, hands, and arms rapidly and accurately
  • Have a valid driver’s license, and be able to pass a Department of Transportation physical

Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for answers to some of our most Frequently Asked Questions about our Local 4 Apprenticeship Program.

  • You learn on state-of-the-art equipment equivalent to what is used on today’s job sites.
  • You learn on technologically advanced simulators.
  • You are mentored by veteran operators while working in the field.
  • Classroom instruction supports job site learning.

Local 4 apprentices will gain familiarity and skill-building with many types of equipment, including but not limited to:

  • C.D.L./Grease Truck
  • Clam/Gradall
  • Crawler crane
  • Dozer
  • Excavator
  • Forklift
  • Grader
  • Hydraulic/Truck Crane
  • Loader/Backhoe-Loader
  • Maintenance Equipment
  • Welding and cutting equipment
  • Hand tools and lubricating equipment, such as grease guns and oil cans
  • Pneumatic, hydraulic, and electric power tools

Local 4 Operating Engineer Apprentices will learn how to:

  • Understand and follow directions
  • Comprehend schematic diagrams and manuals
  • Read gauges
  • Understand verbal and physical commands
  • Maintain and clean equipment
  • Operate equipment controls
  • React quickly to unexpected emergencies
  • Be completely familiar with, and adhere to, safety procedures.
  • You also will have to demonstrate, among other requirements, specific physical abilities, show initiative and responsibility, visualize target points and position machinery accurately, and grasp and manipulate small and large tools.

During your interview, you will be asked about your work experience and your interest in the program.

As an apprentice Operating Engineer, you will earn while you learn. Apprentices are eligible for the same benefits enjoyed by all members of IUOE, including health insurance, pensions, and access to union training programs. IUOE offers training opportunities and employment to all, regardless of race, sex, creed, color, religion, or national origin.