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Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Smiley Lifting Solutions

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Telehandler Operator - 12,000 lb Capacity (North Phoenix)

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$17 - $27/hr

Smiley Crane Service is hiring an experienced telehandler operator for project-based and ongoing ... This is not an entry-level role. -What You Will Be Doing- Operating a 12K telehandler to lift ...

Commercial Metals Company

Refractory Operator

Queen Creek, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running manufacturing equipment or troubleshooting technical obstacles, at CMC, you'll get the training and ...

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Tech I - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ

$35K - $48K/yr

... operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met. This entry-level ... Crane Operations: Perform crane pre-use inspections, operation, and rigging. * Machine Guarding:

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Tech I - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ

$35K - $48K/yr

... operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met. This entry-level ... Crane Operations: Perform crane pre-use inspections, operation, and rigging. * Machine Guarding:

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Tech II - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ

$46K - $64K/yr

... operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met. This entry-level ... Crane Operations: Perform crane pre-use inspections, operation, and rigging. * Machine Guarding:

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Tech II - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ

$46K - $64K/yr

... operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met. This entry-level ... Crane Operations: Perform crane pre-use inspections, operation, and rigging. * Machine Guarding:

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Tech II - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ

$46K - $64K/yr

... operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring quality standards are met. This entry-level ... Crane Operations: Perform crane pre-use inspections, operation, and rigging. * Machine Guarding:

Johns Manville

Welder - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$39K - $54K/yr

Crane Operations: Perform crane pre-use inspections, operation, and rigging. * Machine Guarding ... SOPs: Locate and use Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) via computer based library system ...

Johns Manville

Welder - Manufacturing

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$39K - $54K/yr

Crane Operations: Perform crane pre-use inspections, operation, and rigging. * Machine Guarding ... SOPs: Locate and use Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) via computer based library system ...

Jm

Metal Manufacturing Tech I - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ

$35K - $48K/yr

Conduct crane rigging, use slings and lift devices safely. * Perform machine guarding and basic ... Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and complete Job Safety Analysis (JSA) comprehension ...

Jm

Welder - 2nd shift

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$39K - $54K/yr

Crane Operations: Perform crane pre-use inspections, operation, and rigging. * Machine Guarding ... SOPs: Locate and use Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) via computer based library system ...

City of Mesa

Field Worker I

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$53K - $72K/yr

Field Worker I's assist Field Worker II's and Equipment Operators in one of the following based on ... CLP holders must successfully complete the City's Entry Level Driver (ELD) training program, the ...

ASARCO LLC

SXEW Operations Laborer

Kearny, AZ · On-site

POSITION OVERVIEW This is an entry-level position requiring the ability to perform physically ... Operate overhead crane. * Bundle copper cathodes. * Correct and/or report any observed safety ...

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Entry Level Crane Operator information

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$11

$16

$20

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

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in Arizona is $16.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $17.69 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 Arizona? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Arizona? For Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona 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 Arizona 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 $33,852 per year, or $16.3 per hour.
Telehandler Operator - 12,000 lb Capacity (North Phoenix)

Telehandler Operator - 12,000 lb Capacity (North Phoenix)

Smiley Lifting Solutions

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$17 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

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Job description

Smiley Crane Service is hiring an experienced telehandler operator for project-based and ongoing work in the North Phoenix area. This is a skilled-operator position — candidates must have hands-on, extensive experience specifically with 12,000 lb capacity telehandlers (such as JLG, Gradall, Manitou, or equivalent). This is not an entry-level role.
-What You Will Be Doing-
Operating a 12K telehandler to lift, place, and move materials on active job sites. You will be expected to read and work from load charts, position loads in tight or elevated spaces, and work safely alongside ground crews, riggers, and other trades. Site conditions vary — you need to be adaptable and professional.
-What We Require-
Extensive, verifiable experience operating 12,000 lb capacity telehandlers — you must be able to demonstrate this and provide references from previous employers or job sites
Solid understanding of load charts, rated capacities, and safe working load limits at various boom angles and extensions
Familiarity with pre-operation inspection procedures and daily maintenance checks
Ability to work in a safety-first environment with zero tolerance for shortcuts
Valid driver's license; ability to travel to job sites in the North Phoenix area
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check
-Additional Skills-
Experience on industrial, commercial, or construction sites
Familiarity with crane or rigging operations
-About Us-
Smiley Crane Service has been providing crane, rigging, and lifting solutions in Arizona for over two decades. We operate to the highest safety standards in the industry. Our team is small, skilled, and takes pride in doing the job right.
-Compensation-
Competitive, based on experience. Discuss in interview.
-To Apply-
Go to https://www.smileycrane.com/employment to fill out our application or reply to this ad with your resume and a brief description of your telehandler experience- specifically the make and model of equipment you have run and the types of projects you have worked on. Candidates who do not address their 12K telehandler experience directly will not be considered.

Company Description

Smiley Crane Service has been providing crane, rigging, and lifting solutions in Arizona for over two decades. We operate to the highest safety standards in the industry. Our team is small, skilled, and takes pride in doing the job right.