We operate a hybrid apprenticeship program that combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction to train heavy equipment operators and riggers for commercial and industrial construction. The program serves 101 counties in southeast Texas and focuses on safety-based training.
Our hybrid approach measures progress through both time spent in training (hours) and demonstrated competence in workplace skills. This ensures apprentices gain both practical experience and proven job skills
You’ll complete 4,000 to 6,000 hours of paid on-the-job training (O.J.T.) plus 432 hours of classroom instruction over the three year program.
Classroom training consists of 144 hours per year for three years (432 total hours). Classes are held at our training facility in Dayton.
Yes! The on-the-job training portion (4,000-6,000 hours) is paid. However, the classroom instruction hours are not paid, as this is considered educational time.
O.J.T. takes place at various job sites throughout our 101-county jurisdiction in southeast Texas with participating contractors and employers. If you enjoy traveling, some companies may have you work outside our jurisdiction, and you can also explore opportunities through other unions’ Out-of-Work Lists (OWL).
Applications are only accepted during April, May, and June each year. Make sure to submit your complete application during this window.
The online application can be found on our home page during the application period.
You must provide:
You must:
The selection process follows this timeline:
You must pass your application review to be eligible for aptitude testing. The test evaluates your basic math, reading comprehension, and mechanical reasoning skills relevant to heavy equipment operation. Aptitude testing is conducted in person in Dayton.
Only candidates who pass the aptitude test are eligible for interviews. The interview assesses your motivation, work history, physical capability for the job, and commitment to completing the program. Interviews are conducted in person in Dayton.
The “fit for duty” examination ensures you can safely perform the physical demands of heavy equipment operation and rigging work. This may include vision, hearing, and physical capability assessments.
The Board of Trustees determines the number of apprentices selected annually based on industry demand and training capacity. We select the top candidates and place other qualified applicants on a waiting list.
If you’re on the waiting list, you may be contacted if openings become available.
Heavy equipment operators often need to transport equipment between job sites. A Class A CDL allows you to operate the large trucks and trailers used to move heavy machinery.
You must be able to obtain a Class A CDL, but you don’t need to have it before applying. You’ll typically get your CDL during the apprenticeship program.
You can substitute a GED with official transcript for a high school diploma. Both are acceptable for program entry.
You must be at least 18 years old. There is no maximum age limit.
Upon successful completion, you’ll be a journeyman-level heavy equipment operator and rigger qualified to work throughout the unionized construction industry. You’ll have skills recognized by employers across the region and become a full member of IUOE Local 450.
For full details, please see the Scholarship Agreement under the Info & Resources section.
Wages vary by contractor and progress in the program. Apprentice wages typically start at 65% journeyman rates but increase by 5% for every 1,000 hours worked.
*Based off of Current Contract with Maxim Crane. *Hourly Wages vary depending on contactor. This chart is an example of what wages can look like. | Operator | Apprentice 65% |
Crane Rental (Maxim) | $41.89 | $27.23 |
MCA Industrial | $37.63 | $24.46 |
MCA Commercial Rate | $31.74 | $20.63 |
AGC Commercial Rate | $32.79 | $21.31 |
Pipeline | Full Scale | |
Pipeline Group 1 | $47.30 | |
Pipeline Group 2 | $37.09 | |
Pipeline Group 3 | $26.75 | |
Pipeline | Addendum Scale | |
Pipeline Group 1 | $37.84 | |
Pipeline Group 2 | $29.67 | |
Pipeline Group 3 | $21.40 | |
You may need to purchase work boots, hard hats, safety glasses, and other personal protective equipment (PPE).
We encourage applicants and apprentices to keep their current job until they are dispatched for union work. However, apprentices must attend all mandatory classes as scheduled.
Each case is evaluated individually during the background check process. Minor offenses may not disqualify you, but serious criminal history could affect your eligibility.
Yes. You’ll be tested before program entry and again before each employment. Maintaining a drug-free status is essential for safety and continued participation. Random drug testing may also occur during the apprenticeship.
Review basic math (fractions, decimals, percentages), reading comprehension.
We operate as a time-based apprenticeship program, which means all apprentices complete the full 3-year duration regardless of prior experience or accelerated learning.
While obtaining certifications before applying to the program is acceptable, certified and uncertified applicants are evaluated in the same category. Prior certifications will not place you in a separate or preferential application pool.
The most impressive candidates demonstrate thorough knowledge about our specific program and union. We look for applicants who have taken the time to research and understand what we do, our values, and how our apprenticeship operates.
