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Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

LEVY

Crane Operator, IFS

Chesterton, IN · On-site

The Crane Operator will operate a power-driven crane equipped with a magnet, perform visual ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

Levy

Crane Operator, IFS

Chesterton, IN · On-site

The Crane Operator will operate a power-driven crane equipped with a magnet, perform visual ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

Levy

Robotic Scarfer

Chesterton, IN · On-site

Work closely with Shift Foreman, Hand Scarfer and Crane Operator * May be required to perform the ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

EDW. C. Levy CO.

Robotic Scarfer

Chesterton, IN

Work closely with Shift Foreman, Hand Scarfer and Crane Operator * May be required to perform the ... and apprenticeship. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on ...

City of Chicago

HOISTING ENGINEER-DWM

Chicago, IL · On-site

$68.80/hr

... Mobile Crane) or type equipment operated ESSENTIAL DUTIES • Drives and operates heavy ... apprenticeship training program and journeyman status, OR Should the above criteria not be ...

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Order Filler

Elgin, IL · On-site

$25.99/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 ...

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Order Filler

Elgin, IL · On-site

$25.99/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 ...

Ryerson Holding Corporation

Order Filler

Elgin, IL · On-site

$25.99/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 ...

powercon

Union Laborer

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Signal operators of construction equipment to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of ... Participates in Apprenticeship Program * Union Laborers Power Construction is an equal opportunity ...

powercon

Union Laborer

Chicago, IL

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Signal operators of construction equipment to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of ... Participates in Apprenticeship Program * Union Laborers Power Construction is an equal opportunity ...

Power Construction

Union Laborer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Signal operators of construction equipment to facilitate alignment, movement, and adjustment of ... Participates in Apprenticeship Program * Union Laborers Power Construction is an equal opportunity ...

VanSpeag Group

Be Seen First

CNC Mill and Lathe Machinist

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$23 - $28/day

The Lathe and Mill Machinist is responsible for setting up and operating manual and CNC lathes and ... High school diploma or equivalent; formal machinist training, apprenticeship, or associate degree ...

New

Sasser

Field Service Technician

Hammond, IN · On-site

Successfully complete, perform, and maintain the Field Service Apprentice job functions ... Proficient in Microsoft Office Suit and BRC generation software/ shop operating system. * Ability ...

All JobsApprentice Crane Operator JobsApprentice Crane Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Apprentice Crane Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$20

$30

How much do apprentice crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice crane operator in Chicago, IL is $20.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $22.55 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?

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 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, the employer, and whether the apprentice is pursuing necessary certifications such as the NCCCO license.

What does an apprentice crane operator do?

An apprentice crane operator learns to operate cranes under supervision, gaining hands-on experience with controls, safety procedures, and load handling. They typically assist experienced operators, complete training programs, and may need certification before working independently.

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 be a valuable pathway into a skilled trade with good job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

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Apprentice Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Crane Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,216 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Crane Operator, IFS

LEVY

Chesterton, IN • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Crane Operator

The Levy Group of Companies is seeking a Crane Operator to work at our Indiana Flame Services operation location in Burns Harbor, Indiana. The Crane Operator will operate a power-driven crane equipped with a magnet, perform visual inspection of any maintenance needed to gantry crane and yard on a per shift basis, as well as load/unload – pile/de-pile slabs to be conditioned within scarfing plant.

Pay: Schedule: Benefits

  • Competitive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Prescription, 401(K) with 3% Employer Contribution, Long- and Short-term Disability
  • Year round, non-weather dependent employment
  • Tuition Reimbursement for qualified skilled trade programs
  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Employee Referral Program

Responsibilities

  • Moving machine to work area
  • Documenting and communicating repair request to technician
  • Maintaining cleanliness of equipment
  • Maintaining records and logs
  • Visually oversee scarfing plant flow of slabs
  • Load/Unload slabs from turner to engage
  • Load/Unload the transfer cars with slabs
  • Send transfer car into Robotic Scarfer
  • Able to keep track of slabs
  • Work closely with Robotic Operator, Hand Scarfers and Shift Foreman
  • May be required to perform duties of Robotic Operator and Hand Scarfer
  • Survey entire slab yard for Kress carrier movement at all times
  • Identify and report any and all problems with equipment or slabs
  • Other duties as directed by supervisor

Skills

  • Minimum of 2 years of crane operations experience in an industrial environment
  • Knowledge of Gantry DC Cranes and Magnet Crane
  • Work closely with Shift Foreman and Hand Scarfers
  • Knowledge of rigging procedures and regulations
  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, for extended periods, and lift to 50lbs
  • Ability to climb on, into, and out of equipment
  • Ability to communicate via radio
  • Excellent hand-eye coordination
  • Basic mechanical aptitude
  • Knowledge of appropriate safety procedures
  • Ability to read and write
  • High School diploma or equivalent

To Apply

Please submit your resume. Military Members are welcome and Veterans are encouraged to apply!

Who is Edw. C. Levy Group of Companies? We are a unique, 100-year-old family-owned company that transforms our recycled products into construction materials, lightweight aggregates, asphalt, cement, concrete, agricultural products, and more. We provide steel mill services, flame cutting and treatment, road building, logistics, laboratory testing, and a variety of other solutions for our customers.

The Levy Group of Companies 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. The Levy Group of Companies makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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