ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mobile Crane Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Enviri Corporation

Overhead Crane Operator

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$27.81/hr

Operates mobile equipment as needed. * Communicates and directs co-workers through two-way radio ... High school diploma or equivalent. * 1 - 3 years' experience as a crane/heavy equipment operator is ...

Enviri Corporation

Overhead Crane Operator

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$27.81/hr

Operates mobile equipment as needed. * Communicates and directs co-workers through two-way radio ... High school diploma or equivalent. * 1 - 3 years' experience as a crane/heavy equipment operator is ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMobile Crane Operator JobsMobile Crane Operator Jobs in Iowa

Mobile Crane Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$24

$40

How much do mobile crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for mobile crane operator in Iowa is $24.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mobile crane operator?

A mobile crane operator is a specialist with the licensure and expertise to run a crane. As a mobile crane operator, your responsibilities revolve around moving incredibly heavy objects safely and efficiently. Positions are commonly available in the construction and manufacturing industries. Many mobile crane operators specialize in operating a specific type of crane, such as a fixed cab, swing cab, lattice boom, or hydraulic boom crane. You must safely drive the crane over potentially rough terrain, communicate with the site crew, and follow all occupational standards for the industry.

What does a mobile crane operator do?

A Mobile Crane Operator is responsible for operating cranes that are mounted on trucks or other mobile platforms to lift, move, and place heavy materials on construction sites or in industrial settings. They inspect and maintain the crane, set up the equipment at job sites, and use controls to safely maneuver loads as directed by supervisors or signalers. Safety is a major part of the role, as operators must ensure all lifts are performed according to regulations and site-specific plans. Mobile Crane Operators often work closely with other construction professionals to complete projects efficiently and safely.

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

To thrive as a Mobile Crane Operator, you need a strong understanding of crane mechanics, load calculations, and safety regulations, typically backed by a high school diploma and specialized crane operator certification. Familiarity with hydraulic and lattice boom cranes, load monitoring systems, and compliance with OSHA standards are essential technical requirements. Strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators work safely and efficiently on job sites. These competencies are crucial to prevent accidents, ensure precise handling of heavy loads, and maintain smooth construction operations.

What are some common challenges mobile crane operators face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Mobile Crane Operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight or congested construction sites, managing variable weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple teams to ensure safe crane operations. Effective communication with ground crew and site supervisors is crucial to avoid accidents and ensure lifts are completed efficiently. Staying up to date with safety protocols and participating in regular equipment maintenance checks can help operators manage these challenges and maintain a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Mobile Crane Operator vs Tower Crane Operator?

AspectMobile Crane OperatorTower Crane Operator
CertificationsCrane Operator Certification, CDL (if applicable)Crane Operator Certification, Tower Crane Certification
Work EnvironmentOperates on various sites, mobile and versatileOperates on construction sites, fixed at height
Industry UsageConstruction, shipping, industrial projectsHigh-rise construction, large-scale infrastructure

Mobile Crane Operators and Tower Crane Operators both require specialized certifications and work in construction-related environments. Mobile Crane Operators handle versatile, mobile cranes across different sites, while Tower Crane Operators work with fixed cranes at high elevations. Both roles are essential in construction projects but differ mainly in equipment and work setting.

More about Mobile Crane Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Mobile Crane Operator jobs in Iowa?

For Mobile Crane Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mobile Crane Operator jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Mobile Crane Operator jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Mobile Crane Operator jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Mobile Crane Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Mobile Crane Operator jobs in IA?

For Mobile Crane Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Mobile Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mobile Crane Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,252 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Career Mobile Equipment Operator

Trinity Industries

Shell Rock, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Trinity Industries rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

411th of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

TrinityRail Maintenance Services, Inc is searching for a talented team player to fill the open roles of Mobile Equipment Operator - 1st Shift at our Shell Rock, IA facility.
As a Mobile Equipment Operator at Trinity, you'll operate mobile equipment such as lift trucks, overhead cranes, track mobiles/switch engine, and/or yard vehicles in order to move material and products between work stations and/or receiving and storage locations. You'll also ensure proper identification of parts and materials.
What you'll do:
  • Operate a lift truck with over 15,000 pound capacity
  • Operate overhead crane (stationary) and certified (move across plant)
  • Operate mobile crane (move across yard)
  • Operate or act as ground crew for track mobile and/or switch engine
  • Operate scissor lift
  • Follow all safety rules and practices
  • May be involved in safety committees or initiatives
  • Perform other duties assigned

What you'll need:
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience
  • Certified to operate overhead crane
  • May be certified to operate a scissor lift
  • May be certified to operate a track mobile or switch engine

What Trinity Industries employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply