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Grapple Operator Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Operator

Guelph, ON · On-site

CA$34.04 - CA$41.31/hr

... Truck Operator performs a variety of tasks related to the operation of heavy construction and ... trucks and grapple trucks. On rail or road. Operates assigned machinery and equipment while ...

Operator

Mississauga, ON · On-site

CA$34.04 - CA$41.31/hr

... Truck Operator performs a variety of tasks related to the operation of heavy construction and ... trucks and grapple trucks. On rail or road. Operates assigned machinery and equipment while ...

Operator

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$34.04 - CA$41.31/hr

... Truck Operator performs a variety of tasks related to the operation of heavy construction and ... trucks and grapple trucks. On rail or road. Operates assigned machinery and equipment while ...

CA$47.12/hr

... Truck Operator performs a variety of tasks related to the operation of heavy construction and ... Operates one or several types of boom trucks and grapple trucks. On rail or road. Keep up on all ...

Grapple Operator information

See Ontario salary details

$11

$19

$29

How much do grapple operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for grapple operator in Ontario is $19.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.39 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 Ontario?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Grapple Operator job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,123 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

CA$34.04 - CA$41.31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Re-posted 7 days ago


RailWorks rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job ID: 19997 

Benefits Offering

Company events

Health & Dental Benefits

Employee Assistance Program

Employer RRSP match

Competitive Time Off Policy

Compensation

Unionised

Salary Range: $34.04 - $41.31

Position Summary

Reporting to the Foreman or designate, the Boom Truck Operator performs a variety of tasks related to the operation of heavy construction and maintenance of way equipment in the construction and maintenance of track.

Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties

Operates one or several types of boom trucks and grapple trucks. On rail or road.

Operates assigned machinery and equipment while remaining flexible to seamlessly pivot to general site tasks, manual labor, pulling cable, and other team activities as required by remote and isolated project demands

Keep up on all reports and keep the trucks in good safe working order.

Operates equipment to move, load, or unload material.

Installs equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures.

Signals directions or warnings to coworkers.

Operates equipment in a safe and efficient manner in accordance with regulations, policies and procedures.

Performs equipment safety and maintenance checks.

Coordinates machine actions with other activities, positioning or moving loads in response to hand or audio signals from crew members.

Locates underground services, such as pipes and wires, prior to beginning work.

Repairs and maintains equipment, making emergency adjustments as necessary.

Takes actions to avoid potential hazards and obstructions, such as utility lines, other equipment, other workers, and falling objects.

Studies instructions, plans, and diagrams to establish work requirements.

Operates boom truck on rail & roads.

The boom truck operator also must be willing to work as a labor as needed.

Other duties as assigned

Required Skills and Qualifications

A minimum of one year experience operating heavy equipment in a construction environment.

Must have an AZ License and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Driving Record.

Must have a valid 0-8 ton Crane ticket

Knowledge of and ability to adhere to safety requirements and procedures.

Ability to read and understand construction specifications.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Works at construction sites.

Uses hands to handle and control materials, tools and vehicle controls.

Sits for long periods of time in a closed vehicle.

Uses repetitive motions.

Uses close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision and depth perception.

Moves or lifts heavy equipment and objects up to 50 pounds.

Uses eye-hand-foot coordination.

Exposed to moving mechanical parts.

Exposed to harsh weather conditions including very hot and very cold weather.

Exposed to loud noise.

Travel required

Company Overview

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with PNR RailWorks without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or any other characteristics protected by law.

RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With over 100 years of experience, our geographic footprint enables us to quickly serve our customers and provides ample opportunities for our employees to grow their careers within the company. We take on challenging projects every day and our success relies on a collaborative, safe, and open-minded work environment that encourages teamwork, positivity, and ingenuity. We are committed to creating a culture of trust, respect, and acceptance.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with PNR RailWorks without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or any other characteristics protected by law.

PNR RailWorks is committed to fostering an equitable, accessible, and inclusive workplace. As such, PNR RailWorks will ensure reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities throughout the hiring process, including the interview. If selected for an interview, requests for accommodation can be confidentially made to a member of the recruitment team who will arrange in advance for reasonable and appropriate accommodation for fair and equitable assessment throughout the process.


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