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Grapple Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A

Richmond, VA · On-site

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A - Rerail

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Cranemasters

Laborer - CDL A

Richmond, VA

Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer ...

Stella-Jones

Truck Driver

Tappahannock, VA · On-site

Loads and unloads products and supplies by using a loader/boom with a grapple. Will be offloading ... Experience with self-loaders/heavy equipment operators preferred. Experience with steering trailers ...

Stella-Jones

Truck Driver

Warsaw, VA · On-site

Loads and unloads products and supplies by using a loader/boom with a grapple. Will be offloading ... Experience with self-loaders/heavy equipment operators preferred. Experience with steering trailers ...

Stella-Jones

Truck Driver

Warsaw, VA · On-site

Loads and unloads products and supplies by using a loader/boom with a grapple. Will be offloading ... Experience with self-loaders/heavy equipment operators preferred. Experience with steering trailers ...

Stella-Jones

Truck Driver

Richmond, VA · On-site

Loads and unloads products and supplies by using a loader/boom with a grapple. Will be offloading ... Experience with self-loaders/heavy equipment operators preferred. Experience with steering trailers ...

Stella-Jones

Truck Driver

Tappahannock, VA · On-site

Loads and unloads products and supplies by using a loader/boom with a grapple. Will be offloading ... Experience with self-loaders/heavy equipment operators preferred. Experience with steering trailers ...

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Grapple Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$23

$33

How much do grapple operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for grapple operator in Virginia is $23.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $26.68 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

Grapple Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grapple Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,906 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Laborer - CDL A

Cranemasters

Richmond, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description
Responsible for loading, unloading and safe transportation of equipment and/or materials to/from job site, operation of equipment at job site (if qualified) and providing assistance, including manual labor, in one or more of the following: rerailing operations, maintenance/repair of railroad cars, load adjust/transfer activities and track maintenance/repair/new builds.
Ensures that all activities are carried out in a safe, effective, professional, and efficient manner so as to protect employees and the assets of the Company.
Essential Functions:
  1. Performs pre-trip and post-trip inspection of trucks, trailers, and equipment in accordance with Company policy and D.O.T. regulations.
  2. Drives tractor-trailer to/from job sites, inspects loads, and machinery being transported. Verifies transportation permits to ensure that specifications for overweight and oversize loads/equipment are accurate.
  3. Upon arrival at job site, participates in discussions related to the days' work plan in to ensure safety/efficiency in carrying out daily work assignment. Actively participates in daily safety briefing.
  4. Moves, stages, loads/unloads materials/equipment in preparation of work activities for rerailing, load adjust/transfer, and/or track maintenance/repair/new builds. Upon conclusion of assignment ensures that equipment/materials are reloaded for safe transportation and actively participates in site clean-up.
  5. Assist in assembly, inspection, and operation of cranes and other equipment. Operates equipment in conformance with standard operational policies/procedures while following all safety rules/regulations. Assist with rigging and connection of chains, cables, and winches during derailments. Performs equipment operations with awareness to surroundings and co-workers so as to avoid dangerous situations.
  6. Operates equipment (cranes, backhoes, grapple truck, dump truck, excavators, etc.) in accomplishment of tasks associated with specialty lifting, re-railing, load transfer, track maintenance/repair, grading or other work in preparation for railroad construction and related activities.
  7. Works with hydraulic tools, welding, cutting with torches, electrical tools and common hand tools in accomplishment of work assignments.
  8. Continuously monitors equipment/vehicles to minimize down time and to ensure operational readiness.
  9. Perform and document minor service on equipment/vehicles, referring more complicated mechanical issues to Shop Manager/Foreman for repair.
  10. Participates in disassembly/loading of cranes and other equipment as necessary at the end of job assignment.
  11. Upon return to home base restocks vehicles/equipment with necessary parts, components, supplies in preparation of future work. Sorts scrap materials placing same in designated locations.
  12. Flexible/work-ready to perform tasks for other departments/divisions as may be required to meet business needs and customer expectations.
  13. Follows all required safety policies and procedures.
  14. Maintains vehicles/equipment and work area ensuring that they are cleared of debris/trash, tools and equipment are organized and that the work area/vehicle/equipment present the level of quality and craftsmanship expected of Cranemasters' team members.

Required Travel: Yes; Frequent/extended overnight travel
Required Skills and Experience:
  1. Three years of progressive experience operating heavy motorized equipment to include: backhoe, bulldozer, excavator, front-end loader, grapple truck, rail-bound equipment, tractor and skid-steer loaders; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
  2. Must possess a valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with good driving record.
  3. Capable of understanding and following directions.
  4. Display strong adherence to safety policies and procedures.
  5. Able to read, write and speak English
  6. Must pass qualification tests as required (includes E-Rail Safe and other training/safety programs).
  7. Must meet 24/7 availability in order to respond to emergency calls for service including weekends and holidays.

Physical Demands:
  1. Constantly on feet
  2. Walking / carrying loads on uneven surfaces and in ballast.
  3. Working in ALL weather conditions.
  4. Working extended hours.
  5. Constant bending, twisting, stooping, standing and / or walking.
  6. Regular lifting of up to 50 pounds; loads in excess of 50 pounds and which can be reduced, should be made lighter.
  7. Employee must obtain assistance when lifting items weighing more than 75 pounds, or items which present ergonomic challenges in lifting/movement/placement.

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