Program Specifics

There are four programs with different timeframes: Equipment operators and mechanics, both four years; and lubrication technician and surveyor, both two years. All four have the same pay range, starting around $17/hour and ending at $28/hour as a journeyperson. Additional benefits like medical, dental and vision insurance and a retirement pension increase the total wage value. Mechanics need to have a commercial driver’s license, which may be obtained in-house at the training center in the Fernley area. Applications are taken year ‘round. They may be obtained at the Union Hall at 1290 Corporate Blvd. in Reno or mailed from the apprenticeship coordinator’s office.

▲ Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and live in northern Nevada.

▲ Applicants must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent. They have a year upon beginning the apprenticeship to obtain this.

▲ Applicants must be physically capable of performing the essential functions of the apprenticeship program and subsequent work.

▲ Apprentices must successfully pass a drug test once they are accepted into and enter the program.

▲ The apprenticeship program offers equal opportunity to all people regardless of race, age, color, gender, religion, nationality or sexual orientation.

▲ A 2-hour written test is given at 9:30 a.m. every third Wednesday of the month at the Union Hall. The test has three parts: math, English comprehension and mechanical comprehension.

▲ After successful completion of the test, an interview is set within the next 4-6 weeks. The interview committee is comprised of labor and contractor management.

▲ If accepted, an applicant remains on the list for two years. The program hopes to accept up to 10 new apprentices this year.

▲ Orientation for new applicants is usually in April or May. This takes 10 hours on four Saturdays, for a total of 40 hours.

▲ Work begins in June or July.

▲ Classroom instruction runs from November 15-March 30 for 144 hours a year.

▲ There is no cost for school or books but tools may run $100-$150.

▲ Apprentices must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.   

▲ Once applicants are indentured as apprentices, they are expected to become a member of the Operating Engineers Union, the fees of which are: 

        ↘ Initiation fee of approximately $474 (paid in full or set up on a weekly
           payroll deduction of $50). 

        ↘ Quarterly dues are approximately $105 ($35/month).

For more information contact:

Operating Engineers Joint Apprenticeship Committee
Greg Smith
1290 Corporate Blvd., P.O. Box 20962, Reno, NV 89515
Phone: 775-575-2729 Fax: 775-575-2825
Email: nnvjac@aol.com 
Web: http://www.iuoe.org