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Grapple Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

The Grapple Driver Operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick ... Must comply with all Department of Transportation and State requirements for operators of ...

New

The Grapple Driver Operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick ... Must comply with all Department of Transportation and State requirements for operators of ...

New

CNC Saw Operator

Lake Wales, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

... such as grapple trucks, grapple loaders, and knuckle boom loaders. This position supports ... High school diploma or GED required. * 1-3 years of experience operating CNC saws or similar metal ...

Loader Operator

Graceville, FL · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Loader Operator is an integral part of the Rex team. The Loader Operator is responsible for ... Operate Loader controls to move grapple to pick up logs and unload logs * Ensure a sound ...

Loader Operator

Graceville, FL · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Loader Operator is an integral part of the Rex team. The Loader Operator is responsible for ... Operate Loader controls to move grapple to pick up logs and unload logs * Ensure a sound ...

The Grapple Driver Operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick ... Must comply with all Department of Transportation and State requirements for operators of ...

Loader Operator

Bristol, FL · On-site

$10.75 - $14.25/hr

Loader Operator Job Type: Full Time The role of the Loader Operator is to be able to proficiently ... Ability to operate an articulating wheel loader with grapple * Understand and follow oral or ...

Showing results 21-40

Grapple Operator information

See Florida salary details

$10

$17

$25

How much do grapple operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for grapple operator in Florida is $17.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.57 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grapple operator?

A Grapple Operator is responsible for operating heavy machinery equipped with a grapple attachment to lift, move, and transport materials such as logs, scrap metal, or debris. They work in industries like logging, construction, and waste management, ensuring safe and efficient material handling. Operators must have strong spatial awareness, mechanical skills, and knowledge of safety regulations. Proper maintenance of equipment is also a key part of the job.

What are the typical work conditions and daily responsibilities for a grapple operator?

Grapple Operators often work outdoors in environments like construction sites, logging areas, or recycling facilities, where they are exposed to various weather conditions and must remain vigilant about safety. Daily tasks usually include operating grapple-equipped machinery to move or sort large materials, performing routine equipment inspections, and coordinating with other operators and site supervisors to ensure safe material handling. Operators frequently collaborate with teammates such as truck drivers and ground crew to optimize workflow and minimize downtime. While the work can be physically demanding, it offers variety and the opportunity to develop valuable skills in heavy equipment operation and site logistics.

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

To thrive as a Grapple Operator, you need solid knowledge of heavy equipment operation, spatial awareness, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with hydraulic grapple systems, equipment maintenance, and OSHA safety certifications is frequently required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork ensure smooth and safe job site operations. These capabilities help prevent accidents, maximize productivity, and maintain effective workflow within construction, logging, or recycling environments.

How much does a grapple operator make?

Grapple operators typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $50,000. Wages depend on experience, certifications, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

What job categories do people searching Grapple Operator jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Grapple Operator jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Grapple Operator jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Grapple Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Grapple Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,864 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Grapple Driver

Waste Pro

Sanford, FL • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Waste Pro rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 91 rated recycling and waste


Job description

The Grapple Driver Operates refuse collection vehicles on pre-assigned and special routes to pick up garbage, yard waste, or recycling. Oversees work of helpers assisting on assigned route; performs pre-trip and post-trip truck check and cleaning; and performs other related work as assigned
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
* Safely drives truck on pre-established route in accordance with Decision Driving principles within prescribed time. Collects and dumps garbage and refuse into refuse trucks while covering a designated route in a residential zone. Unloads refuse trucks at the landfill, transfer station, or similar facility.
* Provides Distinguishably Different level of service through courteous and expeditious customer service in all aspects of refuse operation to the general public and customers. Exhibits a positive attitude towards company, customer and municipal goals.
* Ensures garbage and recyclables at residences are picked up and transferred properly; pick up may require using back door. Tags improper refuse containers and waste;
* Performs Daily Pre and Post Trip inspections as set forth by Waste Pro procedures and D.O.T. guidelines. Completes Safety Lane activity and DVIR daily in accordance with Waste Pro safety lane guidelines. Includes inspection under hood, check under carriage, check fluid levels and air tires.
* Maintains clean truck and washes exterior weekly. Inspect/Clean Truck: Lift hood, inspect under the hood, walk around and check under carriage; pump gas, check fluid levels and air tires - Uses air gauge, dipstick for levels, and gas pump nozzle for gas fill.
* Performs a variety of manual duties in the clean-up of scattered refuse; moves and empties large trash bins using truck hydraulics.
* Prepares, maintains, and submits required company and regulation-mandated reports and documents.
* Responsible for all persons working on vehicle during the designated route.
* Must comply with all Department of Transportation and State requirements for operators of commercial motor vehicles.
* May be required to work during emergency situations.
OTHER JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Employees in this job classification must attend and participate in corporation sponsored training courses as assigned.
* Employees in this job classification are responsible for keeping up to date on current technology, as job appropriate, being used by Waste Pro.
* Any additional job duties that may be assigned by the Supervisor.
QUALIFICATIONS:
* Must have a Class A or B CDL valid for the state in which the position works. Requires a clean driving record.
* At least 1 year of previous experience operating a vehicle requiring a CDL within the past 7 (seven) years . Waste Industry experience preferred.
* Must be at least 21 years of age or older
* Understand refuse collection policies, procedures, guidelines and practices, understanding of Department of Transportation and State requirements for operators of commercial motor vehicles.
* Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction; See in the normal visual range with or without correction
* Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
* Maintain written records and service responses.
* Must be able to speak and read English well enough to communicate with customers, co-workers, dispatch and super visors, understand highway and traffic signals, and be able to make legible entries on paperwork.
Special Considerations/Physical Work Requirements:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
1. Physically able to push, or pull independently (unassisted) 50 pounds between 25 and 50 times a day
2. Physically able to lift independently (unassisted) 50 pounds from the ground to waist height between 25 and 50 times a day
3. Physically able to get up and down from the cab of a commercial motor vehicle between 30 and 50 times a day
4. Physically able to lift with assistance (helper) 100 pounds between 20 and 30 times a day
5. Physically able to bend at the waist and knees between 120-150 times in a day
6. Physically able to reach overhead with a reaching pole and pull down using 20 pounds of force and secure a tarp
7. Physically able to climb up to 8 feet in height to deploy a 25 pound tarp
8. Physically able to work 8 to 12 hours in extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, rain and snow)
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
* Works in a variety of environment conditions, including wide temperature and weather variations including heat, cold, rain, wind; noise and vibrations, fumes, odors and dust.
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