Operating Engineers Local 627 Apprenticeship – Oklahoma City & Tulsa
Trade Schools and Apprenticeships in Oklahoma / Operating Engineers Local 627 Apprenticeship – Oklahoma City & Tulsa
Operating Engineers Local 627 Apprenticeship – Oklahoma City & Tulsa, OK
Program Information
Operating Engineers Local 627 trains apprentices to safely operate and maintain heavy construction equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and graders. This program blends rigorous classroom education with field instruction in heavy machinery operation, earthmoving, site preparation, and equipment maintenance. Apprentices learn to interpret blueprints, grade specifications, and survey data — critical skills for ensuring precision and safety on large construction projects.
The training center features modern equipment simulators and outdoor training fields where apprentices gain hands-on experience in realistic jobsite scenarios. The program emphasizes environmental protection, workplace safety, and professional conduct to prepare graduates for long-term success in the construction and infrastructure industries.
Program Length
The three-year program includes 4,000 hours of paid on-the-job training and 144 classroom hours annually. Instruction is provided year-round through training facilities in both Oklahoma City and Tulsa.
Programs Offered
- Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship
- Crane and Excavation Training
- Equipment Maintenance and Safety
Certifications & Career Opportunities
Graduates receive certifications in crane operation, CDL licensing, OSHA safety, and equipment inspection. Career opportunities include operator, foreman, equipment mechanic, or project site supervisor. Local 627 graduates are in high demand by contractors across Oklahoma and the surrounding region.
Program Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- High school diploma or GED
- Valid Oklahoma driver’s license
- Physically able to perform demanding outdoor work
- Pass aptitude test, interview, and drug screening
Compensation & Benefits
Apprentices begin earning 65% of journeyman wages, with scheduled raises. The program provides health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits. Training is tuition-free and fully funded by the union and participating contractors.
Apprenticeship Cost & Career Outlook
Operating Engineers Local 627 Apprenticeship – Oklahoma City & Tulsa is a Registered Apprenticeship Program — meaning you can earn while you learn through paid on-the-job training in Heavy Equipment.
Compensation & Benefits Snapshot
Apprentices begin earning 65% of journeyman wages, with scheduled raises. The program provides health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits. Training is tuition-free and fully funded by the union and participating contractors.
Registered apprenticeships are overseen by the U.S. Department of Labor or a State Apprenticeship Agency. Because these programs aren’t traditional colleges, College Scorecard tuition and earnings data usually doesn’t apply.
Step-by-Step Career Guides
The programs and apprenticeships listed on this page relate to hands-on skilled trades. Explore the guides below to learn about training paths, licensing, salaries, and what to expect in each career field.