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Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

LASER OPERATOR APPRENTICE - PAID TRAINING and $1000 hiring bonus after 6 months. Start a skilled ... Forklift and crane certification through Clow * A foundation for growth within our manufacturing ...

LASER OPERATOR APPRENTICE - PAID TRAINING and $1000 hiring bonus after 6 months. Start a skilled ... Forklift and crane certification through Clow * A foundation for growth within our manufacturing ...

LASER OPERATOR APPRENTICE - PAID TRAINING and $1000 hiring bonus after 6 months. Start a skilled ... Forklift and crane certification through Clow * A foundation for growth within our manufacturing ...

Operator - Rochester, MN

Rochester, MN

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Completion of an apprenticeship program or equivalent training. * CCO certification as required. * CCO certification for 150 ton crawler crane. * Experience operating heavy equipment such as hoists ...

Order Filler

Coon Rapids, MN · On-site

$30.36/hr

Operate lift truck, side loader, and overhead crane * Use SAP operating system to place, track, and ... Successful candidates will be enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program as part of their ...

New

Utility

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$30.68/hr

As a Utility Operator at Ryerson, you will be responsible for assembling material for shipment or ... Crane experience preferred (sheet lifter, chains, slings, hoists, or hooks) * Experience with hand ...

Utility

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$30.68/hr

As a Utility Operator at Ryerson, you will be responsible for assembling material for shipment or ... Crane experience preferred (sheet lifter, chains, slings, hoists, or hooks) * Experience with hand ...

Apprentice Crane Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do apprentice crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice crane operator in Minnesota is $19.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $21.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is an Apprentice Crane Operator job?

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Apprentice Crane Operator position, and why are they important?

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.

What does a crane operator apprentice do?

A crane operator apprentice assists experienced crane operators by learning to operate cranes, perform safety checks, and understand load calculations. They gain hands-on experience with crane controls, safety protocols, and may work under supervision to develop their skills for certification and full responsibility. The apprenticeship typically includes classroom instruction and practical training in construction or industrial environments.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for cranes?

The 3-3-3 rule for cranes is a safety guideline that recommends keeping loads within three times the crane's capacity, operating within three meters of the ground, and maintaining a three-meter distance from power lines. As an apprentice crane operator, understanding and applying these safety principles helps prevent accidents and ensures safe lifting operations on site.

How much does a crane apprentice make?

A crane apprentice typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Apprentices often receive on-the-job training and may earn higher wages as they gain skills and certifications such as a crane operator license.
What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Apprentice Crane Operator jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Apprentice Crane Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Crane Operator job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $41,087 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Union Heavy Equipment and Crane Operators

Union Heavy Equipment and Crane Operators

Rice Lake Construction Group

Deerwood, MN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Rice Lake is one of the nation's leading water and wastewater treatment construction companies, and has been ensuring healthier communities and better environments across the Upper Midwest since 1984. As an ENR Top 200 Environmental Contractor, we leverage our expertise to provide best-in-class, self-performing construction services to municipal and private water and wastewater clients and commercial and industrial markets. Because when it comes to building better futures, our innovation and commitment know no boundaries.
If you are a qualified heavy equipment and crane operators looking to join a professional and growing team, Rice Lake is the employer for you! We hire people at all levels, from apprentice to superintendent, and offer work across the state of Minnesota. PLEASE APPLY TODAY!