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Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Crane Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$18

$27

How much do apprentice crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice crane operator in Iowa is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice crane operator?

An Apprentice Crane Operator is a trainee learning to operate cranes under the supervision of experienced operators. They assist with lifting and moving heavy materials on construction sites, docks, or industrial settings. Their duties include equipment inspections, following safety protocols, and understanding load limits. This role provides hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare for certification and full operator status.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an apprentice crane operator?

As an Apprentice Crane Operator, your daily responsibilities include assisting experienced crane operators, learning to inspect and maintain equipment, and helping set up cranes for various lifts. You'll participate in safety meetings, practice rigging techniques, and work closely with site supervisors and other crew members to ensure operations run smoothly. Over time, you’ll gradually take on more complex tasks, such as performing basic crane maneuvers under supervision and understanding site blueprints. This role offers hands-on learning and is an essential first step towards becoming a fully certified crane operator.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice crane operator?

To thrive as an Apprentice Crane Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety regulations, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Training typically involves hands-on experience with various types of cranes, use of load charts, and pursuing OSHA or NCCCO certifications. Attention to detail, willingness to follow instructions, and strong teamwork are valuable soft skills for success. These qualifications and traits ensure safe, efficient crane operation and help prevent workplace accidents in construction or industrial settings.

How long is an apprentice crane operator apprenticeship?

An apprentice crane operator apprenticeship typically lasts between 1 to 3 years, during which trainees gain hands-on experience and complete classroom instruction. The duration can vary depending on the program, state requirements, and the individual's progress, often including a combination of on-the-job training and safety certifications.

How much does an apprentice crane operator make?

An apprentice crane operator typically earns between $15 and $20 per hour, with wages increasing as they gain experience and complete certifications. Entry-level apprentices often work under supervision and may receive additional benefits depending on the employer and location.

Is it worth becoming an apprentice crane operator?

Becoming an apprentice crane operator provides hands-on training and the opportunity to earn certifications such as the NCCCO, which can lead to higher-paying positions. The role involves operating heavy equipment in construction or industrial settings and typically requires physical fitness and safety knowledge; completing an apprenticeship can improve job prospects and skill development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Crane Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,403 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Industrial Electrical Technician - Crane Repair

Bettendorf, IA • On-site

Arconic
Construction • 5 - 10K employees

$24.25 - $32.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Arconic rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 547 rated manufacturers


Job description

Arconic is currently in search of Electrical Technician to join our Maintenance department based in Davenport.  

At Arconic, we take pride in our work and our innovative products and technologies that advance sustainable solutions for a better world. We strive to create a safe, inclusive, and collaborative workplace with competitive benefits, development opportunities and a culture that values and rewards employees on all levels of the organization. 
 

Arconic Corporation is a leading provider of aluminum sheet, plate and extrusions, as well as innovative architectural products, that advance the automotive, aerospace, commercial transportation, industrial and building and construction markets. Building on more than a century of innovation, Arconic helps to transform the way we fly, drive, and build. 
We live our core values and commit to delivering sustainable value to our customers, our employees, our communities and our stakeholders. 
At Arconic, we: 
Act With Integrity : We lead with respect, honesty, transparency and accountability. 
Safeguard our Future : We protect and improve the health and safety of our employees, communities and environment. 
Grow Stronger Together : We cultivate an inclusive and diverse culture that advocates for equity. 
Earn Customer Loyalty : We build customer partnerships through best-in-class products and service. 
Drive Operational Excellence : We pursue continuous improvement through innovation, agility, people development and collaboration. 
Create Value : We achieve success by generating and growing value for our stakeholders. 
This position is subject to Export Control Law: This position requires access to controlled technology, as defined in the Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. 730, et seq.) and/or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Authorizations from the relevant government agency may be required to meet export control compliance requirements.
United States EEO StatementArconic Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. We take action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

Basic Qualifications:

  • High School diploma or GED from an accredited institution
  • Minimum of 3 years' electrical experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Pass a electrical proficiency exam.
  • Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Completion of a recognized electrical apprenticeship, four years on the job training or electrical degree from an accredited technical college or institution
  • Broad electrical experience, with a preference for knowledge of Industrial Cranes
  • Experience with medium and high voltage systems
  • Experience with network systems
  • Strong ability to read electrical drawings, troubleshoot to root cause, and implement repairs to restore flow of equipment
  • Experience applying knowledge on PLC programming and troubleshooting, ac & dc motors, and variable speed drives
  • Combustion systems experience or Commercial/Industrial Boilers
  • Process control and instrumentation principles
  • Support and maintain a safe work place by active involvement in the safety processes, and leading by example by supporting Arconic's EHS policies and values.
  • Provide technical & tactical support and leadership on planned and un-planned equipment breakdowns and outages on production centers; provide technical support on specialized equipment such as Direct Fire melt furnaces.  Allen Bradley Programmable Controllers, RS Logics and AC/DC drives. Also provides assistance to Engineering on tune up, check out, and commissioning of new and revised equipment.
  • Train and mentor Unit Supervisors and craftspeople, enabling continuous technical skills improvement throughout the organization.
  • Support the Lead Operator process.
  • Support up-skilling of crafts people. Develop and execute training plans.
  • Lead the effort in development of SOP's, WIP's and related procedures on new and existing equipment; provide training on the procedures.
  • Provide technical input to preventative and predictive maintenance systems.
  • Ensure long term viability of existing equipment by recommending and implementing changes and improvements to control systems or equipment to increase equipment reliability.
  • Lead problem solving and root cause analysis efforts, providing documentation and record retention on technical related issues.
  • Assist in critical spare parts management.
  • Apply the Arconic Business Systems concepts and Stability Tools into your daily activities, ensuring that critical maintenance processes are integrated into day-to-day operations.
  • This position will require the candidate to be flexible with hours, as hours for this role will be dependent on business needs. (Generally, M-F 7am-4pm but will require off shift support as needed)

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