... crane certification programs * Maintain training equipment, tooling, and classroom/shop ... Extensive experience operating CNC mills and lathes * Strong understanding of machining processes ...
... crane certification programs * Maintain training equipment, tooling, and classroom/shop ... Extensive experience operating CNC mills and lathes * Strong understanding of machining processes ...
Apprentice Crane Operator information
See Detroit, MI salary details
$13.56 - $14.99
4% of jobs
$14.99 - $16.42
17% of jobs
$16.75 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.42 - $17.85
16% of jobs
The median wage is $18.75 / hr.
$17.85 - $19.28
20% of jobs
$19.28 - $20.70
16% of jobs
$20.94 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.70 - $22.13
10% of jobs
$22.13 - $23.56
6% of jobs
$23.56 - $24.99
5% of jobs
$24.99 - $26.41
1% of jobs
$26.41 - $27.84
3% of jobs
$27.84 - $29.27
1% of jobs
$13
$19
$29
How much do apprentice crane operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice crane operator in Detroit, MI is $19.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $21.63 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 Detroit, MI?
The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Detroit, MI?
For Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Detroit, MI look for?
The top searched job categories for Apprentice Crane Operator jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Apprentice Crane Operator jobs?
Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Apprentice Crane Operator job openings:
CNC School Leader - CNC Training & Machining Program (Mills & Lathes)
Plymouth, MI
$19.50 - $26.75/hr
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 9 days ago
Key responsibilities
Lead American Rheinmetall's CNC machining training program
Train and mentor entry-level and developing CNC machinists, teaching setup, operation, and fundamentals
Develop training curriculum, monitor trainee progress, and maintain training documentation
Job description
At a Glance
Company: American Rheinmetall
Location: Plymouth, MI (On-Site)
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay Range: Competitive Salary (DOE)
Experience Level: Senior (10+ Years CNC Machining Experience)
Travel: Occasional travel to other American Rheinmetall facilities
Work Authorization: Must be able to satisfy employment requirements for a U.S. defense manufacturing environment
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Why This Role Exists
American Rheinmetall is expanding its machining operations to support growing U.S. defense programs and is investing in the next generation of CNC machinists.
The CNC School Leader is responsible for leading, developing, and continuously improving the company's CNC machining training program. This position combines hands-on machining expertise with leadership, coaching, and workforce development to ensure new and existing machinists are prepared to succeed on the shop floor.
If you're an experienced CNC machinist who enjoys mentoring others and helping build high-performing teams, this is an opportunity to shape the future of machining within one of America's fastest-growing defense manufacturers.
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The Work You'll Be Doing
In this role, you will:
- Lead American Rheinmetall's CNC machining training program
- Train and mentor entry-level and developing CNC machinists
- Teach CNC milling and turning setup, operation, and machining fundamentals
- Demonstrate proper machining practices, tooling, workholding, and inspection techniques
- Read and teach blueprint interpretation and GD&T
- Develop training curriculum, evaluations, and certification processes
- Monitor trainee progress and measure time-to-competency
- Track training effectiveness, engagement, retention, and production readiness
- Maintain certification records and training documentation within Plex ERP
- Partner with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Human Resources to align workforce development with operational goals
- Support internal audits and customer training requirements
- Assist with forklift and overhead crane certification programs
- Maintain training equipment, tooling, and classroom/shop environments
- Promote safe machining practices and continuous improvement throughout the organization
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Machines, Controls & Software
You'll work with equipment and systems including:
Machines
- CNC Vertical Machining Centers
- CNC Horizontal Machining Centers
- CNC Lathes
Software & Systems
- Plex ERP
- Socrative (or similar learning platforms)
Inspection Equipment
- Precision measuring instruments
- Blueprint interpretation
- GD&T
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Materials You'll Work With
- Castings
- Forgings
- Bar Stock
- Steel Components
- Defense Manufacturing Materials
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What We're Looking ForRequired
- High School Diploma or GED
- 10+ years of CNC machining experience
- Extensive experience operating CNC mills and lathes
- Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling, feeds and speeds
- Ability to read blueprints, engineering drawings, and GD&T
- Experience performing setups, proving out jobs, and first-article inspections
- Strong communication and leadership skills
- Ability to coach and mentor machinists of varying skill levels
Preferred
- Experience training or developing CNC machinists
- Experience building structured manufacturing training programs
- Workforce development or apprenticeship experience
- Knowledge of AS9100 and ISO14001 manufacturing environments
- Experience using Plex ERP or similar systems
- Experience supporting manufacturing audits
- Cross-functional leadership experience with Production, Engineering, Quality, and HR
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Why Machinists Like Working Here
Professionals choose American Rheinmetall because:
- Help shape the next generation of CNC machinists
- Influence machining standards across multiple facilities
- Work for a growing global defense manufacturer
- Modern machining equipment and expanding operations
- Strong collaboration between Production, Engineering, Quality, and HR
- Long-term career stability supporting U.S. military modernization
- Opportunity to make a lasting impact beyond daily production
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Pay, Benefits & SchedulePay
Competitive Compensation (DOE)
Benefits
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- 401(k)
- Paid Time Off
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- Career Development Opportunities
Schedule
Primarily Day Shift
Occasional travel and flexibility to support multiple shifts as training needs require.
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About American Rheinmetall
American Rheinmetall is a leading U.S. defense manufacturer specializing in advanced military vehicles, armored systems, fabricated structures, and precision machined components supporting U.S. military modernization.
With more than 1,500 employees across six U.S. facilities and over 1.7 million square feet of manufacturing space, American Rheinmetall continues investing in advanced manufacturing technology and workforce development to support the future of defense manufacturing.
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Apply
Interested candidates can apply directly through hireCNC.
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