ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Turner Mining Group

Mobile Crane Operator

Bagdad, AZ · On-site

Turner Staffing Group is hiring Master Crane Operators and Apprentice Crane Operators in Bagdad, AZ. This is a Full-Time opportunity, offering competitive pay and benefits package. Please see details ...

Turner Staffing Group

Mobile Crane Operator

Bagdad, AZ · On-site

$31 - $41/hr

Turner Staffing Group is hiring Master Crane Operators and Apprentice Crane Operators in Bagdad, AZ. This is a Full-Time opportunity, offering competitive pay and benefits package. Please see details ...

Audubon Companies

Crane Operator

Houston, TX

Completion of apprenticeship for mobile crane operators required. * Certification by the North American Crane Bureau Group or the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators ...

Audubon Companies

Crane Operator

Houston, TX

Completion of apprenticeship for mobile crane operators required. * Certification by the North American Crane Bureau Group or the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators ...

Staab Construction Corp

Crane Operator

Midwest, WY · On-site

Must have three years experience operating crane or apprentice program graduate or other equivalent education experience. Must have NCCCO certifications. Ability to occasionally lift 100#, climb and ...

Staab Construction Corporation

Crane Operator

Midwest, WY · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Must have three years experience operating crane or apprentice program graduate or other equivalent education experience. Must have NCCCO certifications. Ability to occasionally lift 100#, climb and ...

Industrial Builders, Inc.

Crane Operator

West Fargo, ND · On-site

$36.65/hr

Completion of apprenticeship for mobile crane operators required. Certification by the North American Crane Bureau Group or the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators preferred ...

Bauer Foundation Corp

Crane Operator

Odessa, FL · On-site

Crane Operator BAUER Foundation Corp. (BFC) is a Florida corporation and the U.S. subsidiary of the ... Direct and monitor apprentices assigned to the Superintendent or foremans supervision * Follows ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConstruction JobsHeavy Equipment JobsHeavy Equipment Operator JobsEntry Level Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs

Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator information

See salary details

$12

$17

$21

How much do entry level apprentice crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level apprentice crane operator in the United States is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level apprentice crane operator do?

An entry level apprentice crane operator assists in operating cranes under the supervision of experienced operators. Their responsibilities typically include learning to control crane movements, conducting safety checks, setting up equipment, and helping with rigging loads. Apprentices gain hands-on experience while also studying safety regulations and industry best practices. Over time, they develop the skills needed to operate cranes independently and safely on construction sites or industrial projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level apprentice crane operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with crane controls, safety protocols, and OSHA certifications are typically required or acquired during training. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and a commitment to safety make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe and efficient crane operation, minimizing risks and supporting successful construction or industrial projects.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level apprentice crane operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level apprentice crane operators often face challenges such as mastering equipment controls, understanding complex safety protocols, and adapting to variable weather conditions on job sites. Building proficiency with the machinery requires patience, practice, and attention to detail, while staying updated on safety guidelines helps prevent accidents. Effective communication with team members, especially signalers and supervisors, is critical for safe and efficient operations. Seeking guidance from experienced operators and actively participating in training sessions can help new apprentices overcome these challenges and grow in confidence.

What is the difference between Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectEntry Level Apprentice Crane OperatorCrane Operator
CertificationsBasic OSHA safety training, crane operation permitAdvanced certifications, licensing, and experience
Work EnvironmentOn-site construction sites, training settingsOn-site construction, industrial, or shipping yards
Experience LevelEntry-level, supervised trainingExperienced, independent operation

The main difference is that an Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator is in training and gaining experience under supervision, while a Crane Operator is fully qualified to operate cranes independently with more certifications and experience.

How long is an entry level apprentice crane operator apprenticeship?

An entry-level apprentice crane operator apprenticeship typically lasts between 1 to 3 years, during which apprentices gain hands-on experience and complete classroom instruction. The duration may vary depending on the program, employer, and whether the apprentice is pursuing relevant certifications such as OSHA or NCCCO. Successful completion often leads to full certification and employment as a crane operator.

What states have the most Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator jobs?

For Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 90% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Apprentice Crane Operator

Seffner, FL • On-site

Adams Crane Hire And Rigging / Superior Crane and Rigging
See more jobs at Adams Crane Hire And Rigging / Superior Crane and Riggingexternal

$42K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:
We are seeking a motivated and safety-conscious Apprentice Crane Operator to join our team. This is an entry-level position designed for individuals with no prior crane operating experience / or very minimal operating experience who are eager to learn the trade and build a career in the construction and crane industry.
Must have a min of 2 years CDL driving Experience, and must have held a CDL for 2 years.
The successful candidate will work under the direct supervision of a certified Crane Operator and will receive hands-on training in crane operations, rigging practices, equipment inspections, and job site safety.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist certified Crane Operators with daily job site operations
  • Learn proper crane setup, operation procedures, and shutdown processes
  • Support pre-operational inspections and routine equipment maintenance
  • Assist with rigging, signaling, and load preparation
  • Follow all OSHA and company safety standards
  • Maintain clear communication with ground crew and supervisors
  • Keep work areas clean and organized
  • Participate in required safety meetings and training sessions
Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Strong willingness to learn and follow instructions
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Physically capable of lifting, climbing, and standing for extended periods
  • Reliable transportation
  • Strong work ethic and punctuality
  • Ability to pass a drug screening and background check (if required)

  • CDL min of 2 years driving with a CDL

Preferred (but not required):
  • Construction site experience
  • Basic mechanical knowledge
  • Interest in obtaining NCCCO certification (company may assist with training)
Career Path:
This apprenticeship position offers a structured pathway toward becoming a certified Crane Operator, with opportunities for skill advancement and increased responsibility based on performance and training progress.