Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

When the third shift clicks on and the shop floor comes alive, you’ll be at the heart of the action—supporting the laser operator and keeping precision metal cutting on pace. In this entry-level, hands-on role, you’ll learn to run horizontal and vertical band saws, read detailed work orders and blueprints, and verify exact measurements so every cut is right the first time. Expect steady hours, real responsibility, and overtime potential as you grow your skills in a production environment.

• Location: Decatur, AL 35601
• Pay: $18/hr
• Status: Temp to hire/Full time
• Shift: Monday–Thursday 11pm–7am; Friday 10pm–6am

• Assist the laser operator and handle repetitive machine operations to keep production flowing.
• Operate horizontal and vertical band saws to cut metals to specification.
• Set up saws and adjust cutting parameters based on work instructions.
• Read work orders, blueprints, and use measuring tools (tape measures, calipers) to verify accuracy before and after cutting.
• Inspect finished pieces to ensure they meet quality standards.
• Safely move materials (when authorized) using forklifts, overhead cranes, or other handling equipment.
• Perform routine safety checks and basic maintenance on equipment.
• Keep your workstation clean, organized, and compliant with company safety procedures.

You’ll work around heavy machinery in conditions that can include extreme heat and cold, noise, vibration, oils, dust, fumes, and metallic particles. Required PPE includes a hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toed boots with metatarsal protection, and hearing protection. When operating grinders, a full-face shield is required in addition to safety glasses.

• High school diploma (required).
• Prior manufacturing or metal fabrication experience preferred; band saw or other metal-cutting equipment experience a plus.
• Ability to read tape measures, calipers, and follow written work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail, reliability, and a solid work ethic; able to work independently and with a team.
• Physically able to stand for long periods; frequent bending, lifting, and reaching.
• Comfort lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Comfortable in a manufacturing environment with noise and metal materials; experience in steel, aluminum, or similar environments preferred.
• Forklift and overhead crane experience preferred.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Steel-toed boots required.

CloudRay, based in East Windsor, NJ, is a trusted staffing partner with 25+ years of industry experience. We connect skilled talent with leading companies nationwide across industrial, logistics, IT, hospitality, and skilled trades—helping you find stable roles with room to grow.

• ✅ Weekly pay
• ✅ Health insurance
• ✅ Incentives and performance-based bonuses
• ✅ Referral bonuses
• ✅ Temp-to-hire career growth potential

Convenient to Decatur (35810, 35811, 35816), Madison, AL 35758, and Athens (35611).

Refer a friend to one of our industrial roles. After they complete 30 days, you’ll receive a $200 Visa Gift Card. Referral must be hired within 6 months.

Must pass a Background & Drug Screen