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Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

CraneWorks

Wash Pad and Yard Assistant

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

... crane, lifting, and specialized equipment solutions serving the construction, industrial ... This is an entry-level position that plays an important role in maintaining the appearance ...

CraneWorks, Inc

Wash Pad and Yard Assistant

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

... crane, lifting, and specialized equipment solutions serving the construction, industrial ... This is an entry-level position that plays an important role in maintaining the appearance ...

CraneWorks, Inc

Wash Pad and Yard Assistant

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

... crane, lifting, and specialized equipment solutions serving the construction, industrial ... This is an entry-level position that plays an important role in maintaining the appearance ...

MHI

Machinist I - Entry Level

Decatur, AL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

Monitors work to ensure that machine is operating properly * Works from drawings and written ... Responsible for rigging and transporting large parts and equipment by crane * Inspects machined ...

Primetals Technologies

Machinist I - Entry Level

Decatur, AL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

... operating at the highest level. Come join the 7,000 employees worldwide working at Primetals ... by crane Inspects machined work pieces to verify conformance to specifications Performs ...

Venturi

VLS Maintenance Technician I

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Overhead crane experience is a plus. * Strong background in the following areas is preferred ... From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe there's always room to learn. We offer ...

Venturi

VLS Maintenance Technician I

Huntsville, AL

Overhead crane experience is a plus. * Strong background in the following areas is preferred ... From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe there's always room to learn. We offer ...

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Entry Level Crane Operator information

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in Alabama is $15.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do beginner crane operators make?

Entry-level crane operators typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and experience. Starting salaries may be lower, but with certification and experience, wages can increase significantly.

How to get started as a crane operator?

To become an entry-level crane operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete a training program or apprenticeship, and obtain a crane operator certification from a recognized authority. Gaining experience with crane operation, understanding safety protocols, and passing written and practical exams are essential steps in starting this career.

Is it hard to get a crane driver job?

Entry level crane operator jobs can be competitive, but obtaining proper certification, such as a crane operator license, and gaining experience through apprenticeships or training programs can improve chances of employment. Employers often look for safety awareness, technical skills, and the ability to operate heavy equipment in construction or industrial environments.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Crane Operator, you need a basic understanding of machinery operation, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with completion of a crane operator training program. Familiarity with crane controls, load charts, and certification such as NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and a commitment to safety are critical soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are important to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant crane operation on construction or industrial sites.

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

AspectEntry Level Crane OperatorApprentice Crane Operator
CertificationsOSHA certification, basic crane operation licenseTypically working towards certification, may have beginner licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial settingsTraining sites, construction environments
ExperienceLimited or no prior experience requiredLearning phase, under supervision
Job RoleOperate cranes under supervision, perform basic tasksAssist and learn crane operation, shadow experienced operators

While both roles involve crane operation, an Entry Level Crane Operator is typically qualified to operate cranes independently after certification, whereas an Apprentice Crane Operator is in training, gaining experience under supervision. The main difference lies in experience level and job responsibilities, with apprentices focusing on learning and skill development.

What are entry level crane operators?

Entry level crane operators are individuals who are new to the field and operate cranes under supervision to move materials and equipment on construction sites, warehouses, or manufacturing plants. They typically have completed basic safety training and may hold relevant certifications or licenses depending on local regulations. Entry level operators assist experienced crane operators, learn to read load charts, and follow safety protocols to ensure efficient and secure lifting operations. Over time, they gain hands-on experience to handle more complex tasks and advance in their careers.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for cranes?

The 3-3-3 rule for cranes is a safety guideline that recommends keeping loads within three times the crane's capacity, operating within three meters of the ground, and maintaining a three-meter distance from power lines. This rule helps ensure safe crane operation by minimizing risks of overload, contact with obstacles, and electrical hazards. Proper training and adherence to safety protocols are essential for entry-level crane operators to follow these guidelines effectively.
What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Alabama? For Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Entry Level Crane Operator job openings:
Entry Level Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Crane Operator job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,926 per year, or $15.8 per hour.
Entry Level General Utility - Stevenson, AL (P)

Entry Level General Utility - Stevenson, AL (P)

Westrock

Stevenson, AL • On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

General Information
Posting Job Title
Entry Level General Utility
Locations
AL Stevenson
Employment Type
Full Time
Date Posted
29-Jun-2026
Description & Requirements
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.
The Opportunity:
This is an entry-level job requiring employees to work rotating 12-hour shifts, in a continuous 365 day/year manufacturing operation. Entry level employees are required to learn, perform, rotate, and progress up to and including top job classification within the department's work system. Entry level employees are also required to serve on the emergency response team where they will be trained in and expected to perform with regards to disaster response, rescue procedures, HAZMAT spill response, and fire-fighting procedures. Employees are required to take call periodically and are expected to work occasionally on their scheduled off days.
The Stevenson Mill is a complex, fully integrated pulp and paper manufacturing facility with two machines that manufactures corrugated medium and is one of North America's largest semi-chemical pulp and paper mill. Stevenson, Alabama is centrally located between Chattanooga, Tennessee and Huntsville, Alabama. This is a unionized facility with approximately 400 employees
What you need to succeed:
(Basic Requirements)
  • High School diploma or GED
  • Must be 18 years of age

(Preferred Requirements)
  • Pulp & Paper Manufacturing experience
  • Experience operating an overhead crane
  • Experience operating a bobcat, lift truck, clamp truck and scissors lift
  • Experience working around large moving machinery
  • Experience working a rotating shift
  • 2 years of continuous work experience.

How you will impact Smurfit Westrock: (Preferred)
  • Participating in the Emergency Response Team (ERT)
  • Read and understand technical correspondence, memos, instructions, and reports.
  • Carry out tasks which require a sequence of steps and dealing with upset conditions that may affect or modify normal operational parameters.
  • Select and properly use personal protective equipment per the specific hazard or hazards in accordance with Smurfit Westrock and department requirements.
  • Safely use equipment and tools
  • Learn, perform, rotate, and progress up to and including top job classification within the department's line of progression

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.

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