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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 ...

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 ...

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 Jul 27, 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.

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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
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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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,971 per year, or $15.9 per hour.
Machine Operator II

Machine Operator II

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak LLC

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description




Join Our Team at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak!

Embark on a rewarding career journey with voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak, North America's premier designer and manufacturer of special trackwork. With a legacy spanning 160 years, we lead the industry in shaping the future of rail solutions. As part of the voestalpine Railway Systems global network, we are committed to delivering quality products and services, including rails, turnouts, fastening systems, signaling technologies, and monitoring solutions. Operating with a presence across Canada, the US, and Mexico, we prioritize the well-being of our people, global mobility, and sustainability and innovation.

Our people are the foundation of our success. Skilled, motivated, and results-driven individuals shape our culture demonstrating our core values of Respect, Responsibility, Curiosity, Courage, Passion, and Diversity each day. This commitment is more than shared values; it extends to shared responsibilities for safety and quality, showing genuine care for one another's growth and development, a commitment to our customers, and fostering strong relationships within the Nortrak Team and with our customers.

We are currently looking for a Machine Operator to join our team in Knoxville, Tennessee.

PURPOSE OF POSITION

The Machine Operator is responsible to operate machines and other equipment in a safe and efficient manner to ensure the proper cleaning and preparation of castings as stated in the OMS/process sheet; efficiently inspect finished work.

Task and Responsibilities:

  • Maintain and operate with hand and power tools like rail benders, shears, punches, presses, saws, cold expansion tools, grinders, and Huckbolt tools.
  • Perform inspections to eliminate spoilage
  • Clean up maintenance and machine area regularly
  • Read and follow the production schedule
  • Able to work with little supervision
  • Adhere to Nortrak’s Safety, Quality and Environmental Procedures, Practices and Policies
  • Perform other duties as assigned


Physical Demands:

  • Frequent standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and pushing, pulling, or lifting objects for the duration of your required schedule shift.
  • Use hands and arms to operate tools, handle materials, and reach for the duration of your required scheduled shift.
  • Regularly lift and carry 30–35 pounds; occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Required vision abilities include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
  • Hearing abilities necessary to perform job tasks safely and effectively.

Job Requirements (e.g. education, experience, skills and desired competencies)

  • High School graduate or GED preferred.
  • Welding, Forklift and Crane certification preferred.
  • Ability to read work orders and blueprints preferred.
  • Experience with measuring tools preferred.
  • Basic mathematical calculation experience in adding and subtracting whole numbers, fractions and decimals.
  • Experience in Railroad Industry is a plus.

Working Location:

  • Knoxville, Tennessee

Benefits:

  • A supportive, family oriented Nortrak Blue culture
  • We provide an environment where Health and Safety is our #1 priority
  • Career development opportunities and competitive pay progression
  • Competitive medical, dental & vision benefits
  • Company paid life and disability insurance
  • Paid holidays and vacation
  • Retirement plan with matching contributions
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs

If you think you have the necessary qualifications and drive to excel in our team, we invite you to apply now and join us at voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak. Apply today!

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak (“Nortrak”) is a subsidiary of voestalpine AG (www.voestalpine.com) one of Europe’s premier steel producers with over 50,000 employees worldwide. Nortrak is closely affiliated with voestalpine’s Railway Systems group which operates in 21 countries across the globe to provide cutting edge system-based solutions to railroads and transits. Our website is https://www.voestalpine.com/nortrak/en/

voestalpine Railway Systems Nortrak is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, and any other federal, state, or locally protected classifications.



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