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Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Access Dubuque

Crane Operator/Loader

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$20/hr

Crane Operator/Loader Russel Metals (USA) Inc. 1 Positions ID: 87009 Posted On 02/02/2026 Refreshed ... Entry-Level HVAC Technician Express Employment Professionals Member Services Advocate Cottingham ...

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Entry Level Welder

Paton, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Forklift and Crane operation will be required, prior experience is a plus, but not required Minimum Requirements * Entry-Level High-Volume Welding Operator * Candidate must adhere to all safety ...

Kloeckner Metals Corporation

Entry Level Welder

Paton, IA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

Forklift and Crane operation will be required, prior experience is a plus, but not required Minimum Requirements * Entry-Level High-Volume Welding Operator * Candidate must adhere to all safety ...

All JobsCrane Operator JobsEntry Level Crane Operator JobsEntry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Crane Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$11

$16

$20

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

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in Iowa is $16.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $17.84 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 Iowa? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Iowa are:
Entry Level Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Crane Operator job openings in Iowa 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 $34,120 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Crane Operator/Loader

Access Dubuque

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$20/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Crane Operator/Loader

Russel Metals (USA) Inc.

1 Positions

ID: 87009

Posted On 02/02/2026

Refreshed On 07/07/2026

Job Overview

Summary of Essential Job Functions/Responsibilities

• Operate overhead cranes and forklifts in a safe manner.

• Knowledge of products handled, including color coding and customer specification; ability to read all

measuring devices.

• Unloading and receiving of inbound stock shipments and loading of outbound shipments, including

all paperwork necessary to perform these duties

• Properly loads trucks in a safe manner, including chaining and tarp trailer.

• All other duties as assigned.

Primary Contact

1769707878832

Melissa Lenhart

,

Phone

Phone

Phone

Fax

[email protected]

Email

False

False

False

Job Details

Categories

Shipping/Warehousing

Location

Dubuque, IA

Shift

Flexible

Job Type

Employee

Full/Part

Full Time

Qualifications

Education

High School/GED

Company ID

86808

Job REQ #

# Positions

1

Start Date

20260202

End Date

20260731

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Russel Metals (USA) Inc.

About the Company

Russel Metals is one of the largest metal distribution companies in North America, with a growing focus on value-added processing. It carrier on business in thee segments: metals service centers, energy field stores and streel distributors. Its network of metals services centers carriers an extensive line of metal products in a wide range of sizes, shapes and specifications, including carbon hot rolled and cold finished steel, pipe and tubular products, stainless steel, aluminum and other non-ferrous specialty metals. Its energy field stores carry a specialized product line focused on the needs of the energy industry customers. Its steel distributors'' operations act as master distributors selling steel in large volumes to other steel service centers and large equipment manufacturers main on an "as is" basis.

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