Operating Engineers Local 4’s training programs prepare apprentices for today’s job opportunities with an eye on tomorrow’s needs. We offer apprenticeship programs to produce highly-skilled Operating Engineers as well as continuing learning opportunities throughout members’ careers.

Local 4 has two modern training facilities in Canton and Medway, Massachusetts, that include real-world training in hoisting, excavation, and maintenance, as well as classroom instruction.

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Our apprentices “earn while they learn,” getting experience in the training center, in the field, and in evening classes. After completing the four-year training program, apprentices graduate with jobs, great benefits, and no debt.


Apprenticeship Training FAQs

  • You learn on state-of-the-art equipment equivalent to what is used on today’s work 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 skills-building with many 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

Note: The below list provides the general qualifications and skills. Specific requirements and documents for apprenticeship application can found here. 

  1. Initiative, motivation, and responsibility.
  2. Ability to do the following work with others.
  3. 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

  • Ability to understand and follow directions
  • Comprehend schematic diagrams and manuals
  • Read gauges
  • Understand verbal and physical command
  • 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.

Take The Next Step

Visit our Training Center website for all you need to know about becoming a Local 4 apprentice.

Visit our training website