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Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Crane Operator information

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$17

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in California is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 40 too old to become an entry level crane operator?

Entry level crane operators can start at age 18 or older, and age is not a barrier to entering the field. Employers typically prioritize training, certifications such as OSHA and NCCCO, and physical ability over age, so individuals aged 40 or older can successfully pursue this career with proper training and licensing.

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 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.

Is it hard to get an entry level crane operator job?

Entry level crane operator jobs can be competitive, but having a valid certification, such as a crane operator license, and completing on-the-job training can improve chances of employment. Employers often seek candidates with basic knowledge of safety protocols and equipment operation, making relevant skills and certifications important for entry-level positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Crane Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Crane Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,851 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

FLEET EQUIPMENT SERVICE WORKER

City of Riverside

Riverside, CA

$53K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Position The City of Riverside is accepting applications for the position of Fleet Equipment Service Worker to fill vacancies in the Central Garage Division of the General Services Department. The eligibility list established may be used to fill the current and/or upcoming vacancies within this classification for up to six (6) months. Under general supervision, a Fleet Equipment Service worker performs and provides a variety of limited skilled office, and perform general maintenance, mechanical repair and tire repair and replacement and other miscellaneous tasks for the fleet management and service activities of the City.

Retrieves automobile and equipment parts from vendors and delivers them as required. Work Performed Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Perform on and off-site preventative maintenance inspections, entry level to semi-skilled diagnosis and repair mechanical defects on all but not limited to light and heavy duty vehicles, forklifts, refuse trucks, utility lifts and crane trucks, towed equipment, para-transit bus, sweepers, construction equipment, fire apparatus, police, and standby generators. Assist and participate in minor engine tune-ups, general repair and maintenance of a variety of automotive mechanical equipment.

Perform brake inspections and replacements, cooling system services, engine, transmission and differential oil changes, tune-ups and valve adjustments. Inspect, maintain, breakdown, repair, mount and balance tires on various city vehicles and equipment. Participate in formal training as well as hands-on cross-training consisting of more complex vehicle and equipment repairs to increase skills and knowledge.

Perform inspection and data information collection of newly purchased vehicles and equipment. Prepare vehicles for decommissioning and sales. Occasionally assist with emergency field repairs to vehicles and equipment.

Maintain accurate computer based time and material records as well as work performed on all work. Perform routine, basic preventative maintenance on fire equipment and apparatus, compressed natural gas filling station and dispensing equipment on an as-needed basis. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Education: High school graduation or satisfactory equivalent (GED). Supplemental specialized training in the maintenance and repair of gas and diesel-powered equipment is highly desirable Experience: One (1) year of experience in automotive servicing work. Experience servicing heavy-duty vehicles and equipment is highly desirable.

Necessary Special Requirements Licenses and Certifications: Possession of an appropriate, valid Class "C" California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Possession of an appropriate, valid Class "A" California Motor Vehicle Commercial Operator's License by the end of the probationary period (12 months). Possession of a current, valid, Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certificate is highly desirable.

Successful completion of any two (2) ASE Series certification tests is required by the end of the probationary period (12 months). An additional two (2) ASE tests of the incumbents choosing within two (2) years of hire date. The incumbent must maintain all certifications acquired throughout employment.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Work is done in a standard office environment and in the field with exposure to faulty devices, chemicals, tools, and potentially hazardous conditions. Employees may interact with staff and/or public and private representatives and will provide professional customer service. Selection Process DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION: 1) Completed Employment Application 2) Completed Supplemental Questionnaire FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide).

The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS: If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions. Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment.

Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver's License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process

It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment. Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination. NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards.

Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list. EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer. Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S

college or university. Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options: An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at http://www.naces.org/members.html or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc. (AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/

An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university. All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement. THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.


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