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Grapple Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Experience operating tree equipment (chainsaws, grapple truck, aerial lift, stump grinder, etc.) * Good listening and communication skills * Strength, stamina and mobility to perform heavy physical ...

Operate tree equipment such as chainsaws, grapple truck, aerial lift, and stump grinder * Ensure ... Experience operating tree equipment * Good listening and communication skills * Strength, stamina ...

... grapple trucks. Fleet mechanics are responsible for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining this ... Collaborate with other team members, including operators and supervisors, to coordinate maintenance ...

Climber

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

About Bratt Tree Service Bratt Tree Service is a family-owned and operated business with deep roots ... Our comprehensive fleet includes our own 20-ton, 40-ton, and Grapple Saw cranes - giving our team ...

Climber

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

About Bratt Tree Service Bratt Tree Service is a family-owned and operated business with deep roots ... Our comprehensive fleet includes our own 20-ton, 40-ton, and Grapple Saw cranes -- giving our team ...

Arborist

Rochester, MN · On-site

$28.46 - $36.93/hr

This position is part of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 49. Individuals in ... grapple truck, backhoe, GRCS, etc. * Plant trees and other plant material according to current ...

Arborist

Rochester, MN

$28.46 - $36.93/hr

This position is part of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 49. Individuals in ... grapple truck, backhoe, GRCS, etc. Plant trees and other plant material according to current ...

Showing results 21-39

Grapple Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do grapple operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for grapple operator in Minnesota is $23.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $26.35 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 are popular job titles related to Grapple Operator jobs in Minnesota?

For Grapple Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Grapple Operator job openings in Minnesota 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 $48,314 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

$18.90 - $26.70/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


AIT Worldwide Logistics rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

244th of 365 rated logistics


Job description

Introduction

Join us at AIT, where we believe every day presents an opportunity to make a global impact!We're problem solvers, driven by our curiosity and creativity, in endless pursuit of solutions for our customers. Together, we champion the strength of our global teams. And, as trusted advisors, we go above and beyond, working together in a supportive and collaborative environment to ensure customer satisfaction.Through the company's continued growth, we challenge ourselves to be better, continuously learning and growing in our dynamic environment. Helping others is at the core of our culture, join us in finding fulfillment by giving back to our local communities as the united team that is AIT. Find out what our people deliver. means when you come move the world with us! Hear directly from our teammates at AIT Worldwide Logistics and make us the next stop on your career journey.

Overview

Transfer goods and materials from incoming and outbound shipments via a forklift. Move materials throughout the warehouse

Responsibilities
  • Operate a manually controlled gasoline or electric powered Forklift to pick-up, deliver or move materials around the warehouse location
  • Able to operate lifting devices such as lift, boom, scoop, lift beam and swivel hook, fork grapple, clamps, elevating platform, or trailer hitch
  • Operate machinery to push, pull, lift, stack, tier, or move products, equipment, or materials
  • Perform regular safety & maintenance checks by inspecting machinery to determine any repair need
  • Perform the following: loads, unloads and stacks materials onto lifting device, weighs material or products and records on production schedules
  • Maintain accurate inventory and report any discrepancies
  • Consistently follow instructions, either while working independently, or as part of a team
  • Comply with all company policies and legal guidelines
  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • Complies with all policies and standards
  • The wage range for this position is $18.90-$26.70 and may vary based on geography as well as relative knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience

Qualifications

Education High School diploma / GED equivalent (Preferred) Experience 3+ years Experience in operating forklift (Required) Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Reading and writing English, knowledge of airport codes destinations and basic geography knowledge. Medium Exhibits strong typing skills/or data entry skills. Medium Must be detail oriented and able to work in a fast pace, high volume environment. Medium Strong organizational and time management skills. Medium Actively participates in safety policies, activities and implementations High Knowledge of regulatory affairs, customs or other business areas of logistics. Knowledge of financial processes and rating methodology Medium Specialized computer knowledge MediumLicenses and Certifications Forklift Certification - Upon Hire (Required) Must be dangerous goods certified Upon Hire (Required)

What AIT Can Offer You

In addition to your base compensation, you may be eligible for a bonus based on achievement of business and/or individual performance metrics (dependent on position). Benefits offered include Medical, Prescription, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability, Supplemental Health, Employee Support, Paid Parental Leave, Pet Insurance, 401(k) and Tuition Reimbursement. In addition, teammates may be eligible for up to 10 to 20 days of vacation (depending on tenure), 2 personal days, 1 floating holiday, 5 sick days, 5 volunteer hours, and 6 company holidays (plus Veterans Day for Veterans) annually.

About AIT Worldwide

AIT Worldwide Logistics is a global freight forwarder that helps companies grow by expanding access to markets all over the world where they can sell and/or procure their raw materials, components and finished goods. For more than 40 years, the Chicago-based supply chain solutions leader has relied on a consultative approach to build a global network and trusted partnerships in nearly every industry, including aerospace, automotive, consumer retail, energy, food, government, high-tech, industrial, life sciences and marine. Backed by scalable, user-friendly technology, AIT's flexible business model customizes door-to-door deliveries via sea, air, ground and rail-on time and on budget. With expert teammates staffing more than 150 worldwide locations in Asia, Europe and North America, AIT's full-service options also include customs clearance, warehouse management and white glove services.

AIT Worldwide Logistics is an Equal Opportunity Employer - M/F/Veterans/Disabled. If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact Human Resources at 630-766-8300 ext 5218.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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