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$14

$37

$89

How much do grapple driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for grapple driver in the United States is $37.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $41.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Grapple Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grapple Driver, you need a commercial driver's license (CDL), strong knowledge of vehicle operation, and experience in safely handling heavy equipment. Familiarity with grapple trucks, hydraulic systems, and GPS routing tools is typically required, along with any relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work independently are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and timely collection and transport of materials, often in demanding environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by Grapple Drivers on the job, and how can they be managed?

Grapple Drivers often encounter challenges such as maneuvering large vehicles in tight or congested areas, handling unexpected debris types, and working in various weather conditions. Effective communication with ground crews and a strong understanding of safety protocols are essential for overcoming these obstacles. Many employers provide ongoing training to help drivers adapt to different environments, maintain safety standards, and operate equipment efficiently. Building experience and staying up to date with best practices can help Grapple Drivers manage these challenges successfully.

What is a Grapple Driver?

A Grapple Driver is a professional who operates specialized vehicles equipped with a hydraulic grapple arm. These vehicles are used to pick up, move, and transport large, bulky materials such as debris, logs, or refuse. Grapple Drivers are commonly employed in waste management, construction, and forestry industries, where they safely and efficiently load and unload heavy items. The role requires skillful operation of both the truck and the grapple mechanism, attention to safety protocols, and often a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

What is the difference between Grapple Driver vs Crane Operator?

AspectGrapple DriverCrane Operator
CredentialsDriver's license, specialized grapple operation trainingCrane operation certification, license
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, forestry, logging, waste managementConstruction sites, shipping yards, industrial settings
Employer & IndustryConstruction, forestry, waste industriesConstruction, shipping, manufacturing

Grapple Drivers and Crane Operators both require specialized certifications and work in construction or industrial environments. While Grapple Drivers focus on operating machinery with grapple attachments for lifting and moving materials, Crane Operators handle large cranes for lifting heavy loads. Both roles are essential in construction and logistics, but they differ in equipment and specific tasks.

What cities are hiring for Grapple Driver jobs? Cities with the most Grapple Driver job openings:
What states have the most Grapple Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Grapple Driver jobs include:
Grapple Driver jobs near you
CDL A Grapple Truck Operator - Fuel Yard (Birmingham, Alabama)

CDL A Grapple Truck Operator - Fuel Yard (Birmingham, Alabama)

National Salvage & Service Corporation

Birmingham, AL

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Are you an experienced Grapple Truck (Knuckle Boom, Grapple Loader Truck, Hydraulic Grapple Truck, Log Loader Truck) Operator with a Class A CDL looking for an exciting opportunity in the Birmingham, AL area? National Salvage is on the hunt for experienced professionals like you to join our Recycling Yard Team

If you’re someone who thrives in the open air and takes pride in getting the job done right the first time, this is the career move you’ve been waiting for. At National, safety, precision, and results are at the core of everything we do.

To succeed in this role, you must have hands-on experience operating a knuckle boom, log loader, or grapple with a Class A CDL.

Enjoy the stability of a Monday - Friday schedule with daytime hours, all while contributing to projects that make a difference.

*In State Only. No Relocation assistance

DUTIES, TASKS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Picking up railroad ties and other wood using a rear mounted log loader boom
  • Loading trucks or rail cars in a fast-paced environment
  • Operating a chainsaw
  • Removing debris at sites using log loader boom
  • Able to work long hours, overtime, and possible weekends in various weather conditions
  • Filling out daily paperwork
  • Ability to use a smartphone, GPS, and Electronic Logging Device

POSITION-SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES:

  • Must have hands-on experience operating a knuckle boom, log loader, or grapple
  • Able to work long hours, in all weather conditions
  • Hold valid driver’s license, a CDL CLASS A is required
  • Must be able to lift 25 pounds
  • Follow all Safety Program, Policies and Procedures
  • Completely and accurately fill out daily paperwork
  • Able to learn the basic use of a smartphone
  • Basic mechanical knowledge in order to make small repairs (change hydraulic hose, grease and lube, safety walk around inspection)
  • Able to pass pre-employment drug test and random drug tests after hiring
  • Physical Requirements: Stand, Walk, Climb, Bend, Twist, Move Throughout the Day, Use Hands in Repetitive Motions, Repeat Same Movements, walk on uneven terrain, Lift 50 pounds, and Exposed to Loud Noises. This is an Outdoor Position, and you will be exposed to all weather elements.

BENEFITS OF NATIONAL:

  • Competitive hourly pay
  • Full health benefits including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, and more
  • 401(K) retirement plan with company matching
  • Paid time off
  • Stable work through all seasons with, full time work through the winter
  • Comprehensive Wellness program – offering 1:1 wellness coaching session
  • Salary Range: $25-$30 per hour based on experience.

This job description is not intended to be comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

Verification of your right to work in the United States, as demonstrated by your completion of the Form I-9 upon hire and your submission of acceptable documentation (as noted on the Form I-9) verifying your identity and work authorization within three days of starting employment. For your convenience, a copy of the Form I-9 List of Acceptable Documents is enclosed for your review.

Satisfactory completion of a background investigation, for which the required notice and consent forms are enclosed.

Successful completion and passing a drug and alcohol test. All job applicants are subject to drug and alcohol testing.

National Salvage & Service Corporation and its related entities are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.