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Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs in Chaska, MN (NOW HIRING)

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Apprentice Crane Operator information

See Chaska, MN salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do apprentice crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice crane operator in Chaska, MN is $21.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $23.46 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 cities near Chaska, MN are hiring for Apprentice Crane Operator jobs?

Cities near Chaska, MN with the most Apprentice Crane Operator job openings:

Apprentice Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Crane Operator job openings in Chaska, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,981 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Operation/Maintenance Technician

Brookfield Renewable

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Reporting to the Manager of Operations the Operations/Maintenance Technician performs and is responsible for work associated with Minnesota facilities involving skill and knowledge in operation and maintenance work associated with generating plant and equipment performance and repairs.  The Operations/Maintenance Technician may work alone or with the assistance of other Minnesota personnel.


Required Skills/Responsibilities:

  • An AS degree in electrical technology is considered an asset, a related apprenticeship program, or equivalent experience.
  • Experience with repair and maintenance of generating plant systems and related equipment is preferred as follows: electrical, mechanical, hydraulic as well as Allen Bradley PLC programming, and troubleshooting skills and ability to perform related essential functions of the job.
  • Identify and repair, as necessary, station hydraulic, electrical, mechanical and control systems including analytical problem solving/troubleshooting.
  • Work with contracted preventive maintenance crews to repair identified maintenance/operational problems to improve unit availability and station uptime.
  • Monitor and report on equipment quality issues per factory requirements and Minnesota Hydro Facilities specifications from disassembly to commissioning.
  • Makes adjustments and corrections, as necessary, to ensure the equipment is operating properly, and places equipment in service and removes equipment from service as required or as directed.
  • Takes periodic readings reflecting performance of equipment, records data, runs required tests, interprets results and makes necessary corrections.
  • Performs diagnostic testing and utilizes test equipment, analyzing and interpreting results.
  • Perform operation of the Twin Cities and LSAF hydroelectric facilities including starting, stopping and synchronizing the generators to the electrical system.
  • Inspect facility and structures, perform reading and record measurements per the Dam Safety and Surveillance Monitoring Plan (DSSMP).
  • Perform Medium and Low Voltage Switching required to implement hazardous energy control procedures.
  • Performs electrical work on equipment 34.5kv and below.
  • Performs work from scaffolds, spiders, or similar support devices.
  • Performs all rigging in the erection, assembly, and disassembly of structures, power transformers, pumps and motors, and turbine/ generation equipment, etc.
  • Operates equipment such as overhead cranes, gantry cranes and intake trash rake.
  • Operate common hand and power-driven tools and equipment such as forklifts, aerial lifts, and pallets jacks.
  • Operate company motor vehicles in accordance with State Laws and Company Policies.
  • Perform minor mowing and vegetation control, snow removal around the generation stations; this may include operation of tractors, lawn mowers, line trimmers, chainsaws/pole saws and snow blowers.
  • Perform work from self-supporting structures of any height, in confined spaces, or at elevation.
  • Perform work removing and disposing debris from trash racks.
  • Performs general clean-up work.
  • Ability to read and understand electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical drawings and schematics.
  • Experience with related mechanical and electrical OSHA safety standards.
  • Fluent knowledge of Electrical and Mechanical system Lockout/ Tagout (LOTO) for maintenance.
  • Ability to stop any unsafe work activities and coordinate efforts for additional / alternate planning to ensure safe work practices are followed. 
  • Very good oral and written communication skills.
  • Knowledge of Windows based software including Outlook, Excel, and Word.
  • Ability to perform safety observations during work to ensure plans and policies are followed.
  • Knowledge of Preventative Maintenance systems development, applications, and tracking.
  • Requisitions, orders, receive, unload and stores replacement parts and equipment.
  • Be available, as necessary, for after hour “call-ins” weekends included, and possible overtime (OT) as needed during scheduled workdays.

Qualification:

  • Ability to organize, plan, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks.
  • Ability to use computer-based systems pertaining to the job.
  • Ability to obtain/maintain switching and EIC authority for work.
  • Ability to write daily job plans.
  • Strength and endurance to perform the above duties.
  • Ability to direct other employees of like classification.
  • Ability to interpret sketches diagrams and specifications
  • Working knowledge of tools and materials used in the performance of the above.
  • Must maintain a valid Minnesota driver license
  • Ability to obtain overhead crane certification within one year
  • Must reside within a 50 miles driving distance of Twin Cities Hydro facility.

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