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Grapple Knuckleboom Operator

Orlando, FL · On-site

Operating a Grapple/Knuckleboom Truck in a safe and effective manner in order to minimize the risk of injury, property damage or loss of life. * Performing daily safety and maintenance check.

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How much do grapple jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for grapple in the United States is $33.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.05 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 proficiency in heavy equipment operation, a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or equipment operator certification. Familiarity with hydraulic grapple systems, safety protocols, and routine maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong spatial awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for safe and efficient operations. These abilities are essential to ensure safety, maximize productivity, and prevent costly errors or accidents on work sites.

What are some common challenges faced by Grapple operators on construction sites?

Grapple operators often face challenges such as maneuvering heavy materials in tight or congested areas, ensuring safety while operating large machinery, and adapting to varying weather conditions that can affect equipment performance. Effective communication with ground crews and other machine operators is crucial to coordinate lifts and prevent accidents. Additionally, operators must perform regular equipment checks and maintenance to avoid unexpected breakdowns, which can disrupt project timelines.

What are Grapple operators?

Grapple operators are professionals who operate specialized machinery called grapples, which are used to lift, move, and position heavy materials like logs, scrap metal, or debris. They play a crucial role in industries such as construction, forestry, and recycling by ensuring materials are handled safely and efficiently. Grapple operators must be skilled in maneuvering the equipment, maintaining safety protocols, and performing routine inspections. Their expertise helps keep worksites organized and prevents accidents.

What is the difference between Grapple vs Crane Operator?

AspectGrappleCrane Operator
CertificationsGrapple-specific certifications, crane operation licensesCrane operation licenses, rigging certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, logging, recycling facilitiesConstruction sites, shipping yards, industrial settings
Industry UsageMaterial handling, forestry, waste managementLifting heavy loads, building structures
Job FocusUsing grapple attachments to grasp and move materialsOperating cranes to lift and position loads

Grapple workers specialize in using grapple attachments to handle materials, often working alongside crane operators. While both roles involve lifting and moving heavy objects, grapple workers focus on material grasping and handling, whereas crane operators control the crane's movement. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role for their skills and certifications.

More about Grapple jobs
What cities are hiring for Grapple jobs? Cities with the most Grapple job openings:
What states have the most Grapple jobs? States with the most job openings for Grapple jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Grapple jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Grapple jobs are:
Grapple jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grapple job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,470 per year, or $33.9 per hour.
CDL A Grapple Truck Operator - Fuel Yard (Birmingham, Alabama)

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

National Salvage & Service Corporation

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 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.