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Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

... crane assignments - MSHA Part 46/48 for aggregate or plant work - Rigging and signalperson ... Union membership provides access to IUOE apprenticeship and training centers, ongoing equipment and ...

... hoist, crane, and measuring and testing instruments. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS * Cleans and ... Observes and listens to operating machines to diagnose machine malfunction and determine need for ...

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Apprentice Crane Operator information

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$13

$19

$28

How much do apprentice crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice crane operator in Ohio is $19.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $20.82 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 Ohio?

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

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

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

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Apprentice Crane Operator jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Apprentice Crane Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Crane Operator job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,883 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Mobile Crane Operator - Mingo Junction

SMS Mill Services

Mingo Junction, OH • On-site

$24/hr

Other

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Crane Operator

Full Job Description SMS Mill Services, LLC is a leader in the steel mill services industry prioritizing recycling and environmental/workers' safety and handling all operations with integrity. SMS in Mingo Junction, OH is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Crane Operator.

Pay: Starting $24+/hr (dependent upon experience) Schedule: Rotating 12 hour shifts, days & nights Must be able to pass a drug screen, background check and eVerify

Summary
  • Responsible for the safe & efficient operation of a hydraulic mobile crane
  • Responsible for operating a mobile crane to lift and move various scrap commodities in multiple directions while ensuring that all efforts are compliant with the company's health, safety, and environmental standards
  • Must possess working knowledge of hydraulic cranes, including, but not limited to preventative maintenance
  • Safety and coordination with other work onsite is imperative
  • Operator will complete daily job functions at the direction of a more senior Operator or Supervisor
  • Operator will operate in a safe and effective manner while moving scrap material around the scrap yard for processing
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
  • Use crane/material handler to load/unload trucks and/or railcars
  • Use crane/material handler to lift, move, and place materials throughout the facility
  • Recognize and remove non-conforming or prohibited materials
  • Recognize and separate different commodities/grades of scrap metal
  • Coordinate machine actions with other activities, such as positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from other team members
  • Proactively perform daily inspections, safety checks, preventative maintenance, and repairs of equipment (crane, grapple, and magnet); report any equipment deficiencies or malfunctions to management
  • Experience with Liebher 944, Sennebogen 840 or equivalents
  • Other job related duties as assigned by management and supervisors
Required Experience
  • At least 1+ years' experience operating a hydraulic crane, preferably in the scrap metal industry (i.e. Liebherr 944), NOT OVERHEAD CRANES
Required Knowledge
  • Knowledge of hydraulic crane systems and diesel engine operations
  • Knowledge of the scrap metal industry
Required Skills & Abilities
  • Basic literacy in English or Spanish
  • Strong communication and time management skills
  • Operate safely and with integrity
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision
  • Reliability to report to work on time
  • Work well with others as part of a team in a fast-paced, non-stop industrial environment
  • Understand and carry out supervisors' directives (written and oral instructions)
  • Flexibility to changing work conditions, assignments, and schedules
  • Ability to work weekends and holidays
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions, including rain, snow, cold, and heat
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish is helpful
  • Comfortable working in an industrial environment
Physical Requirements To Perform Job

Ability to sit in the seat of a crane, continually, up to 60 feet off ground level; stand rarely except when walking to and from worksite; walk and stand on uneven surfaces Communicate by speech and hearing; ability to hear audible warning signals Ability to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects of 50 pounds or more SAFETY

  • Perform and document daily safety and maintenance checks
  • Operate equipment in a safe and appropriate manner
  • Strictly adhere to all company health, safety, and environmental standards
  • Follow all safety guidelines and protocol, including wearing of all PPE
  • Provide a safe environment for all employees, customers, and visitors
  • Adhere to all local, state and federal OSHA and environmental regulations as outlined by the company

Job Type: Full-time Rotating schedule, days and nights Extra hours may be required, sometimes on weekends and weekdays based on the operational needs of the company Position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime

SMS Mill Services, LLC is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. SMS Mill Services, LLC makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.