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Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Plater Pay Range $24-26

Osceola, AR · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

... operating overhead crane to submerge part into plating tank. * Unmask parts after removal from plating tank. * Perform housekeeping in area of responsibility (AOR) * Provide directions to entry level ...

Plating III - Sr Level

Blytheville, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Chrome plating of parts: operating overhead crane to submerge part into plating tank. * Unmask ... May perform heat tests on parts to ensure adhesion This is an entry level position requiring no ...

Plating III - Sr Level

Blytheville, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Chrome plating of parts: operating overhead crane to submerge part into plating tank. Unmask parts ... This is an entry level position requiring no prior plating experience. However, applicants ...

Plating III - Sr Level

Blytheville, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Chrome plating of parts: operating overhead crane to submerge part into plating tank. Unmask parts ... This is an entry level position requiring no prior plating experience. However, applicants ...

Plating III - Sr Level

Blytheville, AR · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Chrome plating of parts: operating overhead crane to submerge part into plating tank. * Unmask ... May perform heat tests on parts to ensure adhesion This is an entry level position requiring no ...

Entry Level Crane Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$10

$14

$17

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

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in Arkansas is $14.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $15.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level crane operator?

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 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.

How much do entry level crane operators make?

Entry-level crane operators typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location, employer, and experience. Starting salaries may be higher with certification and training in operating specific crane types or safety protocols.

What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in Arkansas?

The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Arkansas are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Crane Operator job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $30,039 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

(1) Heavy Equipment Operator I/II

City of Bentonville

Bentonville, AR • On-site

$18.42 - $21.59/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Safety/Security Status:         Safety Sensitive


SUMMARY Depending on the department assigned, operates heavy equipment including but not limited to bulldozers, backhoes, graders, front-end loaders, dump trucks, cranes, tractors, brush hogs, and street sweepers, bucket trucks, and skid steers. Each City department will have standard operations procedures for the type of equipment that is utilized.  The Heavy Equipment Operator I position is an entry-level operator who possess basic skills and are capable of handling simple and routine operations and can operate the simpler and less complex pieces of equipment.    


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Reporting relationships, work assignments, and work schedules may be subject to change in order to meet City needs or operational requirements.  Attendance at work and the ability to get along with the public, supervisors, and co-workers are essential elements of this position.  Other duties may be assigned.


Fastens attachments to tractor with clevis or wedge pin hitches. Connects hydraulic hoses, belts, mechanical linkage, or power takeoff shaft to tractor to provide power to raise, lower, or tilt attachment.


Moves levers to control tool bars, carriers, and disks. Moves levers and depresses pedals to maneuver tractor and raise, lower, and tilt attachment to clear right-of-way.


Feels lever and listens for stalling action of engine to estimate depth of cut.


Drives bulldozer in successive passes over terrain to raise or lower terrain to specified grade following markings on grade stakes or high signals.


Releases brake, shifts gears, and depresses accelerator or moves throttle to control forward and backward movement of tractor. Steers tractor by turning steering wheel and depressing brake pedals.


Directs activities of hoisting Laborer in placing block and outriggers to prevent capsizing when lifting heavy loads.


Moves levers and pedals to rotate crane on chassis, to raise and lower crane boom, and to raise and lower load line. Operates crane according to signals from helper.


Bolts boom sections together to extend or modify boom for pile driving or high lifting.


Pushes and pulls levers and depresses pedals to raise, lower, and rotate boom and to raise and lower load line. Raises, lowers, and rotates boom or load by sight or according to signals from helper.


Inspects derrick for defective parts and notifies supervisor of defects or malfunctions. Fills water tank of machine from hydrant or other water source.


Drives sweeper along street near curb. Moves controls to activate rotary brushes and water spray so that the machine automatically picks up dust and trash from paved streets and deposits it in dirt trap at rear of machine.


Pulls lever to dump refuse in piles at curb for removal.


Greases, oils, and performs minor repairs on all heavy equipment machinery.


Works “On Call” as scheduled or required.


Performs other duties as required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES None.

QUALIFICATIONS To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE( I) High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and two (2) years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.


EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE( II )High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and four (4) years related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.


 LANGUAGE SKILLS Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.  Ability to write simple correspondence.  Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS Ability to add and subtract two digit numbers and to multiply and divide with 10's and 100's.  Ability to perform these operations using units of American money and weight measurement, volume, and distance.

REASONING ABILITY Able to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS( I)

  • Must have and maintain a valid drivers license.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within 90 days of hire.


CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS (II)

  • Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver’s License Class A (CDL) within 90 days of hire.
  • Ability to obtain Flagger Certification
  • Ability to obtain OSHA 10 and OSHA 30 Certifications
  • Ability to obtain Road Scholar Level I and II Certifications


PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.  The employee frequently is required to walk; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.  The employee is occasionally required to sit and taste or smell.  The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.


WORK ENVIRONMENT The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to outside weather conditions in all seasons.  The employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and high, precarious places.  The employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, and vibration.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Work hours differ between departments.


This class specification should not be interpreted as all-inclusive.  It is intended to identify the major responsibilities and requirements of this job.  The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this description but which are commensurate with similar levels of responsibility. 


We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.