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Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Machine Operator

Jackson, WI

$15.75 - $19/hr

Replenish materials and load into machine via the use of forklift or overhead crane. Change out ... Requires operating hand tools, power tools and pneumatic tools, fabrication tools and measuring ...

Entry Level Machine Operator

Jackson, WI · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

... crane. • Change out tooling when necessary. • Utilize software to program correct files ... Requires operating hand tools, power tools and pneumatic tools, fabrication tools and measuring ...

Yard Helper

Kaukauna, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

This is an entry level position to begin a career in the Crane Industry. This is a full-time, non ... branches operating under the ALL, Central, Dawes, and Jeffers names - including specialized ...

Yard Helper

Elk Mound, WI

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

This is an entry level position to begin a career in the Crane Industry. This is a full-time, non ... branches operating under the ALL, Central, Dawes, and Jeffers names - including specialized ...

Yard Helper

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

This is an entry level position to begin a career in the Crane Industry. This is a full-time, non ... branches operating under the ALL, Central, Dawes, and Jeffers names - including specialized ...

WI · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

Professional certifications such as crane operator + rigger (NCCCO + NCCER) or Professional Engineer (PE) license. * Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure, fast paced environment.

Yard Helper

Kaukauna, WI

$16 - $19.25/hr

This is an entry level position to begin a career in the Crane Industry. This is a full-time, non ... branches operating under the ALL, Central, Dawes, and Jeffers names - including specialized ...

Yard Helper

Kaukauna, WI · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

This is an entry level position to begin a career in the Crane Industry. This is a full-time, non ... branches operating under the ALL, Central, Dawes, and Jeffers names - including specialized ...

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Entry Level Crane Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$12

$17

$21

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in Wisconsin is $17.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.77 and $19.18 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

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

Cities in Wisconsin with the most Entry Level Crane Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Crane Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,666 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Production Overhead Crane Operator

Charter Steel

Fredonia, WI

$2.0K/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Charter Steel rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Charter Manufacturing is a fourth-generation family-owned business where our will to grow drives us to do it better.  Join the team and become part of our family! Charter Steel is Hiring in Production on Night Shift 26.50/hr + $2,000 Hiring Bonus!WHY CHARTER STEEL?
  • Weekly paychecks - Get paid every Thursday!

  • Bonuses - sign on bonus, quarterly performance bonuses, referral bonuses, profit sharing bonus

  • Full Benefits package - medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match up to 7%, all starting within 31 days

  • Full time work with stable hours - overtime available

  • Paid vacation time + 10 company holidays

  • All uniforms & PPE provided - yes, even your steel-toe boots!

  • Our culture - we prioritize safety, teamwork, trust, and continuous improvement

  • Growth opportunities - Tuition reimbursement, apprenticeship programs, professional development

  • Fun team events like regular team meals, family picnics & holiday parties

  • Discount programs - cell phones, travel, automotive, and more!

Ready for your next challenge? Learn more in just 60 seconds. Check out our video job description to envision yourself in this role:

Billet Conditioner: http://youtu.be/NGlhKmMr3_M?si=E69YOGWozR-0RwrI

If you’re the kind of person who isn’t afraid of heat, hard work, and doing the job right, we’ve got a place for you. At Charter Steel in Saukville, WI, we melt, pour, and shape the steel that keeps America moving — and we’re looking for dependable people who want to be part of that process.

1 Positions Available at Charter Steel — 1658 Cold Springs Rd. Saukville, WI 53080

Billet Conditioner (Melting Department) | 4:30pm-4:30am | $26.50/hr

  • Rotate through different positions throughout 12-hour shift.

  • Operate overhead crane

  • Use power tools to remove kerf from billets.

  • Apply ID tags using a welding torch and mark billets with chalk.

  • Place chains and spacer bars between billets

  • Perform quality inspections

  • Frequent walking, standing, push/pull, and lifting up to 35 lbs.

  • Rotating 5-2-2-5 Schedule. 12 hour shifts. 5 nights on, 2 off, 2 on, 5 off!

What You Bring:

  • A high school diploma or GED (we can help through our FREE GEDWorks program)

  • Comfortable with basic math (like counting and simple calculations).

  • Team player who works well and communicates with others

  • Background in manufacturing or industrial production, assembly, warehouse, welding, construction, metals, steel, or other hands on jobs

  • Forklift & Overhead Crane experience is a plus!

  • Strong safe work mindset

Help us create the steel that builds the future! Take the next step and join a team that respects your effort, values your skill, and invests in your future. Apply today and start building something solid with us

Key Words & Skills:

Manufacturing - Industrial Production - Forklift - Steel - Crane Operator - Industrial Labor - Shift work - Quality Inspection - Safety Awareness - Material Handling - Equipment Operator - Inventory Tracking - Entry Level Manufacturing - Welding Torch - General Labor - Safety Focused - Overhead Crane Operator - Steel Mill - Melt Department

#CharterSteel #ManufacturingJobs

We offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) plan that includes employer matching and profit sharing. Additionally, we offer company-paid life insurance, disability coverage, and paid time off (PTO).


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