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Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Crane Operator information

See Boston, MA salary details

$13

$18

$23

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

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in Boston, MA is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $20.62 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 Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs in Boston, MA are:

Entry Level Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Crane Operator job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,465 per year, or $19 per hour.

CNC Operator/Machinist I

Holliston, MA • On-site

Abbess Instruments and Systems, Inc.
Industrial Machinery Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Abbess Instruments and Systems, Inc.external

$30 - $55/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

At a Glance

Company: Abbess Instruments and Systems, Inc.
Location: Holliston, MA 01746
Pay: $30–$55 per hour
Job Type: Full Time
Experience: Entry-level; equipment training provided
Machines: Bridgeport mills
Controls: ProtoTRAK

Why This Job Is Worth Considering

Abbess Instruments and Systems designs and builds custom vacuum chambers and vacuum/thermal test systems used across aerospace, electronics, and materials science testing. As a CNC Operator/Machinist I, you'll set up and run Bridgeport and ProtoTRAK mills to produce precision components used in Abbess' own products, then inspect your work against print before it moves on. The shop cross-trains onto additional equipment, including a CNC burn table, laser, water jet, and saws, so there's room to build skills beyond milling if you're interested. Abbess operates under an ISO 9001:2015 quality system, so documentation and continuous improvement are part of the daily routine.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Set up, operate, and clean up CNC mills to produce parts to print
  • Review drafted work orders and coordinate production requirements with the CAD engineer
  • Inspect machined parts using calipers, micrometers, and pin gages to confirm they meet design specs
  • Troubleshoot and make mechanical adjustments and repairs on equipment as needed
  • Operate overhead cranes and lifts safely during machine and material handling
  • Communicate with engineering and design on any change orders
  • Complete required documentation, including time logging and production data entry
  • Cross-train on additional equipment such as CNC burn table, laser, water jet, or saws as needed

Machines, Controls and Software

Bridgeport mills and ProtoTRAK conversational controls are the core daily equipment. Abbess also cross-trains machinists onto its CNC burn table, laser, water jet, and saws as production needs arise — prior experience with this additional equipment is preferred but not required, and training is provided.

What We're Looking For

Required

  • Experience operating Bridgeport or similar manual/CNC mills
  • Comfortable using precision measuring tools — calipers, micrometers, and pin gages
  • Basic math skills
  • Ability to work independently as part of a team-based production floor
  • Experience working around or with an overhead crane

Preferred

  • Prior exposure to CNC burn table, laser, water jet, or saw equipment (training provided if not)

Apply