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Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

Production Worker

Carson City, NV

$15.25 - $18/hr

Entrylevel candidates are encouraged to apply, and experienced tradespeople may have accelerated ... Operate overhead crane to move, assemble and select material to be fabricated or shipped. Assemble ...

Production Worker

Carson City, NV · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

... plus, but not required . Entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply, and experienced ... crane to move, assemble and select material to be fabricated or shipped. • Assemble and load ...

Entry Level Crane Operator information

See Nevada salary details

$12

$17

$22

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

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in Nevada is $17.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $19.33 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 Nevada? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Nevada are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Crane Operator job openings in Nevada as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,992 per year, or $17.8 per hour.
Production Worker

Production Worker

Nucor

Carson City, NV

$15.25 - $18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago


Nucor rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

198th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Details

Division: Nucor Rebar Fabrication Southwest

Location: Carson City, NV, United States  

Other Available Locations: N/A

Welcome to Nucor, where our unique culture sets us apart. Joining Nucor means becoming part of North America's largest steel and steel products manufacturer, offering unmatched career opportunities and stability. We are known for our innovative sustainability practices and are the continent's largest recycler. Our vibrant culture, built on personal connections and teamwork, empowers every team member with the freedom to innovate and contribute to our collective success. Experience a workplace where safety, efficiency, and meaningful personal connections define every day, enriching both our teammates and the communities we serve.

Nucor supports its teammates with top-tier benefits like Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability Insurance, 401K and Roth accounts, Profit sharing, Pay-for-performance bonuses, Paid parental leave, Tuition reimbursement, Stock program, Scholarships and more.

Compensation:

At Nucor Rebar Fabrication, a Rebar Fabricator (Production Worker) is responsible for bending, cutting, bundling, and loading reinforcing steel to meet customer orders. This is handson, physical work that plays a key role in building America's infrastructure.

This role is ideal for candidates attending our walkin hiring event  - no appointment required. Sameday interviews on Wednesday, May 06 ** ONLY**, will be conducted @ 1626 S 700 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84104.

If hired, you will be paired with an experienced mentor and receive paid, handson training to safely operate machinery and equipment. We're looking for dependable team players who are ready to learn, work hard, and grow with us.

Candidates must be comfortable working outdoors. Prior experience in construction, landscaping, manufacturing, or the skilled trades is a plus, but not required.

Entrylevel candidates are encouraged to apply, and experienced tradespeople may have accelerated advancement opportunities.

Responsibilities:
Unload trailers and store material in storage bins.
Operate a shearing machine or a power saw to cut reinforcing steel bars to specific lengths.
Operate a bending machine to bend reinforcing steel bars to specified shape.
Operate overhead crane to move, assemble and select material to be fabricated or shipped.
Assemble and load orders onto trailers for shipping.
Operate a spray gun in the application of epoxy touch up or reinforcing steel bars.
Maintain the shop or designated area in a clean and safe manner.

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within Nucor; therefore, candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

Minimum Requirements:

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship now or in the future
Must be age 18 or over
Due to the operating conditions of the position, this is a safety sensitive position, therefore you must pass a drug test, including THC
Must be able to work overtime when required

Your Qualifications:

Able to read and comprehend basic safety and operational instructions
Able to perform basic math for accurate bar measurements

Physical Demands:

Some heavy lifting may be necessary
Working conditions can be noisy/ dusty/ hot/ cold

Nucor is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer - M/F/Disabled/Vets - and a drug - free workplace


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About Nucor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nucor Corporation is an American producer of steel and related products based in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the largest steel producer in the United States, the largest "mini-mill" steelmaker (i.e. it uses electric arc furnaces to melt scrap steel as opposed to blast furnaces to melt iron), and the biggest recycler of scrap in North America. As of 2021, Nucor was the 15th-largest steel producer in the world.

Industry

Primary metal manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1905

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