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Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wood Plc

Crane Operator

Stanley, ND · On-site

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting for a Crane Operator with extensive ... A portion of that experience may be as a helper/apprentice * NOTE : Prior to operating any type of ...

Wood

Crane Operator

Stanley, ND · On-site

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting for a Crane Operator with extensive ... A portion of that experience may be as a helper/apprentice * NOTE : Prior to operating any type of ...

Rail Management Services LLC

Crane Operator

Westwego, LA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Pay close attention to the duties of a Crane Operator. Pacific Rail Services is looking for ... Advanced knowledge of railroad industry from a vocational education institute, apprenticeship, on ...

JobConnection Services, Inc.

Be Seen First

Crane Operator

Easton, PA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Operators are required to climb up to entry level of crane cab and check fluids and visibly inspect boom and all cables. Lubricates motor and moving parts of crane. Complete daily, weekly, and ...

Rail Management Services

Crane Operator

Westwego, LA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Pay close attention to the duties of a Crane Operator. &feature=youtu.be Pacific Rail Services is ... Advanced knowledge of railroad industry from a vocational education institute, apprenticeship, on ...

Palmetto Corp

Crane Operator/CDL Driver

Lugoff, SC · On-site

Position Description We are hiring a full-time, experienced NCCCO/NCCER Certified Crane Operator ... pre-apprenticeship, and/or on-the-job training. All such decisions are based on (1) individual ...

Palmetto Corp

Crane Operator/CDL Driver

Lugoff, SC · On-site

Position Description We are hiring a full-time, experienced NCCCO/NCCER Certified Crane Operator ... pre-apprenticeship, and/or on-the-job training. All such decisions are based on (1) individual ...

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Entry Level Apprentice Crane Operator information

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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.

CRANE OPERATOR

Newport News, VA • On-site

East Coast Repair and Fabrication
Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about East Coast Repair and Fabricationexternal

$32 - $38/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY:
Responsible for the safe operation of a stationary or traveling crane to lift, move, position, and reposition loads. Depresses buttons, lifts levers, and ensures load is safely attached to crane before bringing it down.
This position requires the ability to work long hours, including nights and weekends, on short notice
Essential Functions:
  1. Operate crane under general supervision.
  2. Manipulate or depress crane controls to regulate speed and direction of crane and hoist movement according to written, verbal, or signal instructions.
  3. Repair and maintain the crane as needed.
  4. Conducting a pre-operational checklist of the crane prior to operations each day.
  5. Determine if any parts are malfunctioning.
  6. Complete job tickets, service quality summaries and all other necessary paperwork.
  7. Lift, position, and place machinery, equipment or other large objects at job site or facility.
  8. Place blocks and outriggers to prevent capsizing when lifting heavy loads.
  9. Move levers and pedals to rotate crane on chassis to raise and lower crane boom and to raise and lower loan-line.
  10. Bolt boom sections together to extend or modify boom for high lifting.
  11. Work with precise limits and standards of accuracy.
  12. Operate crane according to signals from helpers.
  13. Follow directions carefully.
  14. Conducting a safety brief with the crew on site prior to operations each day.
  15. Walking the job site with the Rigging Foreman or Rigging Supervisor to identify hazards
    or risks prior to operations each day.
  16. Only operating cranes IAW their training and certification, and per the Operator Manual
    and this procedure.
  17. Stopping operations for any UNSAFE issue.
  18. Placing the crane in a safe condition at the end of operations.
  19. Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  1. Graduation from a standard apprenticeship/trade/vocational school.
  2. High school diploma or GED required and 3 or more years of related experience or equivalent of training and experience.
  3. NCCCO Certifications required.
  4. Class B Driver’s License Required; Class A preferred.
  5. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, and hand signals.
  6. Ability to gain access to military installations.
  7. Excellent attention to detail.
  8. Excellent eye-hand coordination.
  9. Must pass a drug test and background check.
Physical Requirements:
  1. Ability to lift 50 pounds regularly and seek help with weights over 50 pounds.
  2. Ability to sit and/or stand for long periods of time.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs/vertical ladders; balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or hear; taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
This is a physically demanding position and may accommodate some physical disabilities. Physical dexterity may be required when performing walk thru and inspection of job sites. In the performance of the walk thru you will be required to transverse steep stairwells, vertical ladders and bending or stooping thru tight spaces. There may be occasional lifting of materials weighing not more than 50 pounds.
Environmental Conditions:
This position works on the jobsite. There is exposure to hostile environments, loud noises, hazardous chemicals/fumes and airborne particles, smoke, extreme temperatures moving mechanical parts: high, precarious places.
During worksite visits it will be required to wear appropriate PPE including, but not limited to:
Hard hat
Ear plugs or attenuator
Safety shoes
Dust mask or respirator
Gloves

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