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Crane Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Wells

CRANE OPERATOR

Valders, WI

ABOUT THE ROLE The Crane Operator must operate the crane safely, efficiently and take verbal and hand signals from the crew. The operator is responsible for their machine, including maintenance and ...

The Wells Companies Inc.

CRANE OPERATOR

Valders, WI · On-site

ABOUT THE ROLE The Crane Operator must operate the crane safely, efficiently and take verbal and hand signals from the crew. The operator is responsible for their machine, including maintenance and ...

The Wells Companies Inc.

CRANE OPERATOR

Valders, WI · On-site

ABOUT THE ROLE The Crane Operator must operate the crane safely, efficiently and take verbal and hand signals from the crew. The operator is responsible for their machine, including maintenance and ...

Wells Concrete

CRANE OPERATOR

Valders, WI · On-site

ABOUT THE ROLE The Crane Operator must operate the crane safely, efficiently and take verbal and hand signals from the crew. The operator is responsible for their machine, including maintenance and ...

The Wells Companies Inc.

CRANE OPERATOR

Valders, WI · On-site

ABOUT THE ROLE The Crane Operator must operate the crane safely, efficiently and take verbal and hand signals from the crew. The operator is responsible for their machine, including maintenance and ...

Tutorperini

Crane Operator (Union)

Hilbert, WI

Lunda Construction Company, a Tutor Perini Company, is seeking Crane Operator (Union) to join our project sites in the Black River Falls, WI; Waukesha, WI; Hilbert, WI; and Rosemount, MN regions.

Walbec Group

Operator - Bridge Construction

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

The Position: We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for using machinery to move materials at construction sites. * Operate a variety of equipment * Clean ...

Walbec Group

Operator - Bridge Construction

Green Bay, WI

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

The Position: We're looking for Heavy Equipment Operators/Certified Crane Operators responsible for using machinery to move materials at construction sites. * Operate a variety of equipment * Clean ...

Leeco Steel

Machine Operator - 1st and 2nd Shift

Oshkosh, WI

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Due to our continued growth we are seeking an additional Crane Operator, Kinetic, Oxy Fuel and Parts Cleaners for our Oshkosh, WI location. Previous experience with operating an overhead crane would ...

Leeco Steel

Machine Operator - 1st and 2nd Shift

Oshkosh, WI · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Due to our continued growth we are seeking an additional Crane Operator, Kinetic, Oxy Fuel and Parts Cleaners for our Oshkosh, WI location. Previous experience with operating an overhead crane would ...

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All JobsCrane Operator JobsCrane Operator Jobs in Appleton, WI

Crane Operator information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$14

$27

$39

How much do crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane operator in Appleton, WI is $27.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $32.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Crane Operator vs Rigger?

AspectCrane OperatorRigger
CertificationsCrane operator license, OSHA certificationRigger certification, OSHA certification
Work EnvironmentOperate cranes on construction sites, industrial settingsSet up and secure loads, assist crane operation
Industry UsageConstruction, shipping, manufacturingConstruction, shipping, industrial

Crane operators and riggers often work together on construction sites. While crane operators focus on operating the crane, riggers handle load setup and safety. Both roles require OSHA certifications and are essential for safe lifting operations in similar environments.

Are crane operators well paid?

Crane operators typically earn competitive wages that vary by experience, location, and industry. According to industry data, the median annual salary for crane operators is around $60,000, with experienced operators and those working in specialized environments earning higher pay. Certifications and skills in operating different types of cranes can also influence earning potential.

How much do they pay a crane operator?

The average salary for a crane operator is around $60,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certification level. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in specialized equipment can earn higher wages, often working in construction, shipping, or industrial environments with potential for overtime pay.

What Does a Crane Operator Do?

A Crane Operator is a professional heavy machine operator, specializing in cranes. Cranes are a unique kind of heavy equipment that uses pulley systems to move around, raise, and lower large items, such as shipping containers and steel beams. A Crane Operator is in charge of moving these things where they need to go, safely and efficiently. The also log their work, discuss and plan with their team, and perform basic maintenance on their machine.

Is it worth becoming a crane operator?

Crane operators are in demand in construction, shipping, and manufacturing industries, often earning competitive wages and benefits. The job requires specialized training, certification, and the ability to work in high or confined spaces, making it a skilled trade with good career prospects. However, it involves physical demands and safety risks that should be considered before pursuing the profession.

What are some common challenges Crane Operators face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Crane Operators often encounter challenges such as working in variable weather conditions, maintaining clear communication with ground crews, and ensuring safety in busy construction environments. To address these, operators rely on standardized hand signals, two-way radios, and regular safety briefings. Additionally, ongoing training and certification help operators stay updated on the latest safety protocols and equipment technology, ensuring efficient and secure operations.

What does a crane operator do?

A crane operator is responsible for operating cranes to lift, move, and position heavy materials on construction sites, in warehouses, or at industrial facilities. They must carefully control the crane’s movements using levers, pedals, or computerized controls while following strict safety protocols. Crane operators also inspect their equipment, ensure loads are balanced, and communicate with ground crews to complete tasks efficiently and safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Crane Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, load calculations, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma and crane operator certification (such as NCCCO). Familiarity with rigging equipment, load charts, and control systems is essential, along with the ability to interpret blueprints and site plans. Strong attention to detail, communication, and situational awareness are vital soft skills for managing complex lifts and working with ground crews. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and precise lifting operations on construction or industrial sites.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for cranes?

The 3-3-3 rule for cranes is a safety guideline that recommends a maximum load height of three times the load's width, a maximum load radius of three times the load's width, and a maximum load weight of three times the crane's rated capacity. This rule helps ensure stability and safe operation by maintaining proper load limits and avoiding overloading. Crane operators must also adhere to manufacturer specifications and safety standards to prevent accidents.
More about Crane Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in Appleton, WI? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Crane Operator jobs in Appleton, WI? For Crane Operator jobs in Appleton, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Crane Operator jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Crane Operator jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Crane Operator jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Crane Operator job openings:
Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crane Operator job openings in Appleton, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,934 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
CRANE OPERATOR

CRANE OPERATOR

Wells

Valders, WI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Crane Operator must operate the crane safely, efficiently and take verbal and hand signals from the crew. The operator is responsible for their machine, including maintenance and Daily/Monthly inspections. The operator is also responsible for the rigging care and daily inspection.

SAFETY IS OUR HIGHEST PRIORITY. Safety is our highest priority. We believe a safe workplace is built on mutual respect, care, and accountability. Every team member is empowered and expected to follow safety practices, look out for one another, and speak up about potential risks. Together, we create an environment where everyone goes home safely each day.

WHY JOIN OUR TEAM?

At Wells, you’re part of a team that takes pride in building something that lasts. Whether you’re in operations, a manufacturing facility, or out in the field, your work plays a direct role in creating quality structures that support our communities. We value hard work, reliability, and teamwork because getting the job done right requires teamwork. With a strong focus on safety, collaboration, and ingenuity, we create an environment where you can build your experience, contribute to meaningful work, and make an impact.

WHAT WE OFFER
Wells provides a competitive benefits package designed to support employees’ health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, company-paid disability and life insurance, wellness incentives, paid holidays, PTO, flexible spending accounts, HSA options, a 401(k) with profit sharing, access to Nice Healthcare, employee assistance resources, pet insurance, and additional voluntary coverage such as critical illness, accident, and hospital indemnity plans.

  • Health and family care leave is available to both union and non-union employees.
  • Union employee benefits are provided through separate collective bargaining agreements

WHAT YOU’LL DO

  • Operate the crane with skill, control, and precision
  • Be knowledgeable in the safe operations of the crane
  • Conduct daily visual inspection of this equipment to ensure it is in good working condition
  • Understand rigging procedures and be knowledgeable in rigging equipment capacities
  • Climbing up and down from this equipment and from form surfaces
  • Be knowledgeable in Assembly and Disassembly of the crane
  • Perform maintenance on the machine and keep the machine in good working order
  • Acts in professional manner that demonstrates the individual has good character and can be trusted by all employees
  • Understand and follow the manufacturer’s operator’s manual for the machine he is operating

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

We’re looking for a safety-focused and dependable Crane Operator with strong skills in crane operation and rigging. The ideal candidate communicates effectively, works efficiently, and maintains professionalism on the jobsite. This individual is detail-oriented and committed to a safe, productive work environment.

IDEAL CANDIDATES WILL HAVE

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • NCCCO Certified Operator
  • OSHA 10
  • 2 Years of rigging experience
  • Climb up and down the crane
  • Ability to fix and diagnose mechanical problems
  • Must understand crane Load charts
  • Conduct daily and monthly crane and rigging inspections

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 75 lbs occasionally and frequent bending, climbing, kneeling, twisting, squatting, crawling, and repetitive hand/arm use
  • Capable of standing, walking, and moving throughout the facility for extended shifts of up to 12 hours
  • Comfortable working at heights using ladders, scaffolding, swing stages, and man lifts frequently
  • Ability to work safely in a production or field environment with moderate to high exposure to safety risks and hazards
  • Willingness to work in varying environmental conditions, including wet, hot, humid, and cold weather, and outdoors
  • Ability to wear all required PPE, including but not limited to safety boots, safety glasses, hearing protection, high visibility vest, hard hat, and other PPE as required by the task, department, or work area.

This profile summarizes key duties and expectations but does not list every possible job task. Employees must follow all job-related instructions and duties assigned by supervisors.

Wells is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Wells participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your I-9 Form information to confirm you are authorized to work in the U.S.