2

Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler - Weekend Shift

Fort Worth, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Minimum of 1 year of experience operating a 10-20 ton overhead crane preferred * training available for entry-level candidates * High school diploma or GED * Experience in a steel service center or ...

Material Handler - Night Shift

Fort Worth, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Minimum of 1 year of experience operating a 10-20 ton overhead crane preferred * training available for entry-level candidates * High school diploma or GED * Experience in a steel service center or ...

Material Handler - Night Shift

Fort Worth, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Minimum of 1 year of experience operating a 10-20 ton overhead crane preferred * training available for entry-level candidates * High school diploma or GED * Experience in a steel service center or ...

Material Handler - Day Shift

Fort Worth, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Minimum of 1 year of experience operating a 10-20 ton overhead crane preferred * training available for entry-level candidates * High school diploma or GED * Experience in a steel service center or ...

Material Handler - Day Shift

Fort Worth, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Minimum of 1 year of experience operating a 10-20 ton overhead crane preferred * training available for entry-level candidates * High school diploma or GED * Experience in a steel service center or ...

Material Handler - Weekend Shift

Fort Worth, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Minimum of 1 year of experience operating a 10-20 ton overhead crane preferred * training available for entry-level candidates * High school diploma or GED * Experience in a steel service center or ...

Material Handler - Night Shift

Fort Worth, TX ยท On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Minimum of 1 year of experience operating a 10-20 ton overhead crane preferred training available for entry-level candidates High school diploma or GED Experience in a steel service center or ...

AJAX- Straightener Operator HT 1

Liberty, TX ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Forklift certified, crane certified Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions ...

AJAX- Straightener Operator HT 1

Liberty, TX ยท On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Forklift certified, crane certified Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions ...

Project Engineer I

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$46 - $48/hr

... and electrical work, crane operations, marine rigging, dispatching, and maintenance. Its ... Job Summary We are seeking an entry-level Project Engineer I to support the development of Gas and ...

New

$78K/yr

... Crane Procedures Manual, District Standards, and all laws governing the work. You will also verify ... Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work ...

New

HC - Mechanic - Heavy Equipment

College Station, TX ยท On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

Knowledge and application of common hitches, Emergency stop signal, Basic crane hand signals, Knot ... operating equipment.; Two years verifiable experience is preferable for entry level position.

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Crane Operator information

See Texas salary details

$11

$16

$20

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

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in Texas is $16.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $17.69 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 Texas? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Texas? For Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Crane Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Crane Operator job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,844 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator - Dimmit Plant - Carrizo Springs, Texas (South Texas)

Iron Oak Energy Solutions

Carrizo Springs, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
Iron Oak Energy, a leading provider of proppant to the oil and gas industry with a differentiated footprint of low-cost, logistically advantaged mining and terminal assets serving all major U.S. shale basins. Iron Oak Energy Solutions, formed from the strategic combination of Covia Energy and Black Mountain Sand to create a premier frac sand mining company, delivering superior products and solutions to diversified oil and natural gas markets across North America. The combination positions Iron Oak Energy with unmatched scale, reliability, and deliverability to customers in all major oil and gas shale plays.
Position Summary
The Equipment Operator position requires operation of various types of off-highway vehicles within the facility and other mobile equipment such as pit loaders, dozers, and excavators. The position is primarily responsible for operating off-highway equipment to transport raw materials to various processing stages in the facility. Other duties include transporting water to wet facility roadways and fuel to re-fuel equipment. This position will be expected to adhere to all safety regulations and practice safe operations at all times.
Essential Functions
  • Perform duties safely and responsibly while always observing all safety and health rules.
  • Completes pre-shift inspections and JSA's, and interfaces with relief operator for any updates, instructions, and changes
  • Report any and all unsafe mechanical conditions to the Pit Foreman and/or Supervisor
  • Proactively maintain good housekeeping practices and preventive maintenance practices on equipment
  • Strictly follow all rules of safe mine transportation as regulated by MSHA; Must follow all MSHA safety guidelines
  • Assists with general plant housekeeping including the clearing of waste sand accumulation

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Sufficient education to operate relevant computer software and complete written documentation and records; or an equivalent combination of experience, education and training that provides the desired knowledge, skills, and characteristics
  • Prefer entry-level to intermediate experience operating heavy off-road mobile equipment
  • Prefer prior experience or proficiency in operating equipment maintenance software such as Cat, Komatsu, JLG Genie, Bobcat, Tackehuchi and Grove
  • Prior experience with crane operations, software, and maintenance a plus
  • Must be able to perform basic mathematical equations and use basic hand tools, measuring tools, labor tools
  • Must have basic maintenance and undercarriage replacement experience on excavators, dozers and skid steer, telehandler, and man lift
  • Previous sand plant or oilfield experience is preferred
  • Must have effective communication skills; ability to speak, read, and have a working knowledge of the English language
  • Must have team player attitude with high-level of self-motivation requiring minimal supervision
  • Must be willing to work any shift, overtime, weekends, and holidays as nature of plant schedule may fluctuate
  • Must be able to wear a respirator and other required personal protective equipment.
  • Must be able to work outdoors and be exposed to varying weather conditions (i.e.: heat, wet, cold, etc.)
  • Must be able to sit, stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time; grip, climb, reach, shovel, squat, crawl, pull and push
  • Must be authorized to work in the US and be at least 18 years of age
  • Must have and maintain a valid driver's license
  • Please note Corporate Housing facility is not available at this location

Job Benefits
Iron Oak Energy offers a comprehensive and competitive compensation package for candidates when they join our team. Benefits enjoyed by members of our team include:
  • Competitive wage
  • Health, dental, vision and long-term disability insurance following 60-days of employment
  • 401(K) retirement savings plan
  • Paid holidays and time off

Disclaimers
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by candidates applying for the role of Equipment Operator. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of candidates hired for Equipment Operator.
Iron Oak Energy is an EEO Employer and E-Verify participating employer and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, or veteran status.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.