ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Kavaliro

Material Handler

Loudon, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Use of an overhead crane to load and unload paper rolls onto or off of machines. * Assist operating team with housekeeping activities. Experience: * Entry Level position that requires a High School ...

Techlink Systems

Be Seen First

Material Handler/Forklift - MM25

Loudon, TN · On-site

$16.50/hr

... * Entry Level position that requires a High School diploma or GED. * Use of an overhead crane to load and unload paper rolls onto or off of machines. * Assist operating team with housekeeping ...

New

Techlink Systems

Be Seen First

AUTO OFFER: Material Handler - JRA2026

Loudon, TN · On-site

$16.50/hr

... * Entry Level position that requires a High School diploma or GED. * Use of an overhead crane to load and unload paper rolls onto or off of machines. * Assist operating team with housekeeping ...

New

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

Entry Level Crane Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$15

$19

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in Tennessee is $15.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.21 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 Tennessee?

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs?

Cities in Tennessee 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 Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,971 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Light Industrial - Material Handler- Loudon I

NR Consulting

Loudon, TN • On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 16 hours ago

Job description

Warehouse Truck Operator

Load/unload trucks, move materials throughout inbound and outbound warehouse and into and out of manufacturing using a Box or Bale Clamp Lift Truck. Use a pole truck to move paper rolls in warehouse. May require lifting, pushing or pulling of objects over 50 pounds. Entry level position that requires a high school diploma or GED. Use of an overhead crane to load and unload paper rolls onto or off of machines. Assist operating team with housekeeping activities. Previous fork truck and/or mobile equipment experience preferred but not required. 12 hour, rotating shift. Both day and night shifts are required along with every other weekend. Always work 7 7 unless instructed otherwise by the TC.

Apply