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Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Bender CCP

Journeyman Outside Machinist

Kent, WA · On-site

May provide technical guidance and mentorship to apprentices or junior mechanics. Machine Operators ... Forklift, rigging, or crane signaling certifications. * OSHA 10/30 Maritime certification.

DEMGY PACIFIC

CNC MACHINIST

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$28.75 - $42.75/hr

... shift operators to effectively continue production. * Operate an overhead crane and drive a ... Train apprentices * Ability to do first part inspect for jobs for others within their area.

All JobsApprentice Crane Operator JobsApprentice Crane Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA

Apprentice Crane Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$22

$33

How much do apprentice crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice crane operator in Seattle, WA is $22.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $24.90 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.
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Apprentice Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Crane Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,741 per year, or $23 per hour.

Crane Operator Journeyman ESR

Everett Ship Repair

Everett, WA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Everett Ship Repair is the Pacific Northwests Premier Ship Repair Facility. Founded in 2019, Everett Ship Repair offers vast ship repair capabilities from its facility in Everett, Washington, including repair, maintenance, and conversion services for any type of commercial vessels, with focus on commercial workboats and passenger vessels. With the US Navy as our neighbor, it is no secret that we are in aggressive pursuit of earning their business as we grow our footprint, skills, and profile in this market. With impressive dry-docking capacity, and an opportunity to be part of an emerging team of industry veterans and highly skilled tradesmen, ESR strives to continuously improve our repair and construction methods into efficient and reliable processes. We seek tradesmen who share that view, value learning opportunities, and desire an opportunity to apply their skills in our progressive environment.
We are now seeking an experienced Crane Operator to perform various lifts in various shipyard areas throughout the day. The crane operator will perform various tasks including crane maintenance, rigging inspections and selections, forklift operations, cleanup operations, in addition to regular crane operator requirements. They will be responsible for timesheet recordkeeping, incident reports, crane inspections, rigging inspections and records.
What You Will Do

  • Operate all forklifts and perform complex forklift lifts without supervision.
  • Think outside to box and offer input on lift ideas and complex/critical lift planning.
  • Plan, rig, execute critical lifts, and large and complex lifts with very little supervision
  • Assemble, disassemble, operate, and repair the launch system.
  • Perform needed maintenance and repair the cranes.
  • Acquire lift information, direct a rigger, and safely execute all lifts without supervision
  • Direct a crew when required to do any of the tasks normally required of the operator.
  • Maintain individual log of all lifts made.
  • Operate all cranes safely and effectively.
  • Develop positive working relationship between Operator/Rigger crew and client departments
  • Calculate/acquire the weight of various lifts (small, large, and critical).
  • Perform needed activities to support vessel launch.
  • Lead and direct a team effectively to ensure the safety and success of all lifts.
  • Work as a member of a team demonstrating skills to effectively communicate, adapt, interpret and problem solve.
  • Always embrace safety culture and practice safe shipyard work practices and housekeeping
  • Develop and maintain constructive and cooperative working relationships with fellow crew members and supervision
  • Share your knowledge in the trade with other employees, especially those in learning or apprentice roles
  • Other tasks as needed that may arise in our exciting work environment
What You Bring to Our Team
  • 3+ years experience operating fixed cab, swing cab, and lattice crawler cranes.
  • Hold NCCCO Certifications in Swing Cab, Fixed Cab, and Lattice Crawler (TLL, TSS, & LBC).
  • Mastery of forklift operation and lifts.
  • Ability to plan, rig, and execute complex and critical lifts by thinking outside of the box.
  • Crane maintenance and repair knowledge and experience.
  • Ability to acquire lift information, direct a rigger, and safely execute all lift without supervision.
  • Ability to work flexible shift hours and overtime as needed.
  • Ability to work as a member of a team demonstrating skills to adapt, interpret and problem solve.
  • Ability to pass a general knowledge test set up by supervisor/lead.
  • Able to understand and apply basic mathematics.
  • Experience working around heavy machinery.
  • Good verbal communication skills.
  • Valid drivers license
  • Ability to pass company pre-employment screens in background check, drug test, and physical skills test
What Additional Things Would Distinguish You
  • 5+ years experience operating fixed cab, swing cab, and lattice crawler cranes.
  • 5+ years critical lift planning and rigging experience
  • 5+ years forklift experience
  • Interest in and aptitude for taking on future crew leadership roles
  • Previous experience in a shipyard (new construction or repair)
Benefits:
  • 401(k) and 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Dental insurance
  • Group Life Insurance with Optional supplemental life and disability insurance programs
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program

Everett Ship Repair is a drug free workplace, and all applicants are subject to a pre-employment drug screen and a background check.
Equal Employment Opportunity: Everett Ship Repair is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, political affiliation, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, or the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability.

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