The Joint Apprenticeship Committee for Operating Engineers, Local Union #17, will conduct a recruitment from October 19, 2026 through October 23, 2026 for 10 Operating Engineer (Heavy Equipment) apprentices. Please note that the seven openings listed for apprentices represent the total number for two recruitment regions - the Finger Lakes and Western regions of the state. Applications must be obtained in-person at the Operating Engineers Local Union #17, 2342 Pleasant Avenue, Lake View, New York 14085, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, during the recruitment period. For Thursday, October 22, 2026, applications will be available from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Applicants will have 10 days to return the applications either by mail or in person. They may be completed on site, returned in person, or mailed at the above address (see instructions below). Applications must be received within 10 business days of the date candidate picks up application if returning in person (at the same scheduled times listed above); postmarked within 10 days if returning by mail after the date it gets picked up. Incomplete or late applications will not be processed. The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED). Transcripts or copy of proof must be presented upon selection. Must self-attest that they are physically able to perform the work required of an Operating Engineer as stated on application, which may include: Climbing and working from heights. Lifting heavy tools and equipment. Performing tasks involving coordination, motor skills, and dexterity. Working outdoors in extreme weather conditions such as heat, cold, wind, rain and snow. Must be able to do heavy manual labor over extended periods. Must pass a DOT physical, drug and alcohol test after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. May need respiratory test according to OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134, paid for by the sponsor. Must have a valid NYS CDL Class A drivers license or CDL-B drivers license with air brakes to drive company vehicles. Proof will be required after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must be able to operate Standard Transmission trucks. Must have reliable means of transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must be a citizen of the USA or legally entitled to work in the United States. Must provide DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must reside in one of the following counties within the jurisdictional territory of Local Union #17, which includes the counties of: Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Orleans, Wyoming, and Western part of Genesee County (excluding the city of Batavia). For further information, applicants should contact Operating Engineers Local # 17 at (716) 627-2311. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers). Apprentice programs registered with the Department of Labor must meet standards established by the Commissioner. Under state law, sponsors of programs cannot discriminate against applicants because of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, disability, or marital status. Women and minorities are encouraged to submit applications for apprenticeship programs. Sponsors of programs are required to adopt affirmative action plans for the recruitment of women and minorities.