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Entry Level Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Autokiniton

Crane Operator - 3rd Shift

Belleville, MI · On-site

Crane Operator We are AUTOKINITON (pronounced auto-ken-i-TAHN) AUTOKINITON delivers operational ... We empower all our Associates - from entry-level to senior-level - with the skills and knowledge ...

Autokiniton

Crane Operator - 2nd Shift

Belleville, MI · On-site

Crane Operator We are AUTOKINITON (pronounced auto-ken-i-TAHN) AUTOKINITON delivers operational ... We empower all our Associates - from entry-level to senior-level - with the skills and knowledge ...

Autokiniton

Crane Operator - 2nd Shift

Belleville, MI · On-site

Crane Operator We are AUTOKINITON (pronounced auto-ken-i-TAHN) AUTOKINITON delivers operational ... We empower all our Associates - from entry-level to senior-level - with the skills and knowledge ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Oiler/Rigger/Driver

Albuquerque, NM

$23.25 - $30/hr

In this entry level position, you will assist the crane operator on job tasks during the operation of the crane and provides rigging operation and hand signals to ensure safe lifting of the load.

RMS Cranes

Oiler/Rigger/Driver

Albuquerque, NM

$23.25 - $30/hr

In this entry level position, you will assist the crane operator on job tasks during the operation of the crane and provides rigging operation and hand signals to ensure safe lifting of the load.

RMS Cranes

Oiler/Rigger/Driver

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$23.25 - $30/hr

In this entry level position, you will assist the crane operator on job tasks during the operation of the crane and provides rigging operation and hand signals to ensure safe lifting of the load.

Alliance Steel

Material. Handler

Gary, IN

$18 - $19/hr

Entry Level Material Handler This organization is a growing full-service steel processing company ... Experience as a forklift operator and crane operator * Ability to work in a fast-paced ...

Go Coil II

Coil Operator - Coiled Tubing

Smithton, PA · On-site

$26 - $34/hr

Job Overview This is an entry level position to operate and maintain in a continuous job readiness ... Role models onsite safe and expedient service delivery including crane, rigging, and lifting ...

Go Coil II

Coil Operator - Coiled Tubing

Midland, TX · On-site

Job Overview This is an entry level position to operate and maintain in a continuous job readiness ... Role models onsite safe and expedient service delivery including crane, rigging, and lifting ...

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Entry Level Crane Operator information

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

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level crane operator in the United States is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.99 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.
More about Entry Level Crane Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Crane Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs? The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Crane Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Crane Operator jobs are:
Entry Level Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,327 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Crane Lift Planner

Elliott-Lewis | Sautter Crane | AA Duckett

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

CRANE LIFT PLANNER
Sautter Crane Rental is looking to grow the team with the addition of a Lift Planner. This role works in our office on the frontend of a crane project designing accurate lift plans for cranes to safely and effectively operate on construction sites. Lift planning includes preparing quotes for the sales team to present to clients.
About Company
Sautter Crane Rental is part of the Elliott-Lewis family of companies which have a reputation of being a premier provider of Mechanical Services, Facilities Management, and Crane Rentals. This position will be responsible for initiatives of Sautter Crane Rental. With the ability to provide the right crane for every job, Sautter Crane has become the provider of choice for hundreds of companies all over the Eastern Seaboard. Client's value Sautter Crane's commitment to set the benchmark for crane service and rentals.
Responsibilities
  • Work closely with Operations, Sales, Field Supervisors, and backend office team members to ensure accurate and reasonable lift plan drawings for upcoming crane work. At times also requires collaboration with outside engineers to ensure structural and architectural integrity in and around the construction site can be maintained safely.
  • Review client needs with sales team, and utilize lift planning software to provide a quoted plan to the client.
    • Lift plans should include: an outline of safety needs, structural requirements, recommended crane size, list additional equipment needed, and timeline for the project.
    • Lift planning software used in this role includes: Blue Beam, Liebherr's Lift Plan LICCON, and A1A's 3D Lift Planner.
  • Incorporate information from rate sheets to ensure lift plans factor for required rates.
  • Ensure that lift plans presented to clients maintain compliance with OSHA, ANSI, and ASME standards for safety.
  • In addition to reviewing client needs, also consider bid documents, blueprints, estimation plans, geographical landscape to ensure lift plan adheres to all project requirements.
  • When appropriate, include in the lift plan any identified hazards or risks.
  • As requested, support the sales team members by attending pre-planning meetings, occasional site visits, and coordination with clients to meet their needs.
Required Skills
  • Sautter Crane Rental welcomes applicants with a strong interest in cranes, rigging, and the construction industry. Previous experience is not a firm requirement, but applicants must have an enthusiastic interest in cranes.
  • Our ideal candidate has 2+ years of professional experience either in a construction office, or directly working on construction sites.
  • Applicants must approach work with a team mindset and a goal-oriented focus.
  • Applicants must be comfortable learning new and changing computer programs including but not limited to the lift planning software, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
  • Strong communication skills both verbally and written to succeed in this role.
  • Willingness to adapt as client needs change, with ability to think outside the box solve problems.
  • Excellent attention to detail to ensure all lift plans are highly accurate.
Preferred Skills
  • Although prior experience in cranes, rigging, or construction is not a firm requirement, preferential consideration will be given to candidates who have several years experience in this industry.
    • Prior experience in lift planning software highly valued, especially in any of the following: Blue Beam, Liebherr's Lift Plan LICCON, or A1A's 3D Lift Planner.
  • Any NCCCO Certification is highly valued but not required to apply.
  • OSHA30 Training preferred
Physical Requirements
  • Consistently Required: Walking, standing, bending, or twisting
  • Frequently Required: Bending or twisting, kneeling, crouching, stooping, and crawling. Working with various chemicals
  • Occasionally Required: Working with arms raised over head. Max carries 50lbs. Push/pull max 50lbs. Exposure to hot and cold temperatures. Working at heights. Exposure to high sound levels.
Compensation
  • Sautter Crane Rental offers a robust compensation package including:
    • Competitive base salary,
    • Annual raises,
    • Annual bonuses,
    • 401k Retirement Plan with generous company match,
    • Two weeks' vacation during first year at entry-level with more earned for greater tenure,
    • Sick Pay,
    • Medical / Health Insurance Plans,
    • Dental coverage,
    • Additional voluntary benefits including several life insurance options, accident insurance, several disability insurance options, and more.

We recognize that great talent can come from a variety of backgrounds. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to affirmative action and diversity. Background, MVR checks, and drug tests are performed for all positions.
Equal Opportunity Employer including Disability/Vets

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