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Trainee Crane Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Crane Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$20

$33

How much do trainee crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee crane operator in Iowa is $20.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.65 and $24.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How long does it take to train as a trainee crane operator?

Training to become a trainee crane operator typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on the program and the complexity of the equipment. It includes classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and safety certifications such as OSHA or equivalent standards. On-the-job training is also essential to gain practical experience before working independently.

What is a trainee crane operator?

Trainee crane operators are individuals who are learning to operate cranes under supervision, typically as part of an apprenticeship or formal training program. They assist experienced crane operators, learn how to safely handle different types of cranes, and study relevant safety procedures and regulations. Their training covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to move heavy materials at construction sites or industrial facilities. The goal is to prepare them for certification and independent crane operation.

What kinds of support and mentorship can a trainee crane operator expect during their training period?

As a Trainee Crane Operator, you will typically receive hands-on training under the supervision of experienced crane operators and site supervisors. Most employers provide structured mentorship programs, safety briefings, and regular evaluations to ensure you are progressing safely and efficiently. You can also expect to collaborate closely with riggers, signalers, and maintenance teams, fostering a supportive learning environment. This mentorship not only helps build technical skills but also instills a strong focus on safety and teamwork, which are essential in crane operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee crane operator?

To thrive as a Trainee Crane Operator, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, good hand-eye coordination, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with crane operation simulators, safety equipment, and relevant certifications like a Crane Operator Certification (NCCCO or equivalent) is typical. Attention to detail, strong communication, and a safety-first mindset are crucial soft skills in this position. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe crane operation, minimize workplace accidents, and maintain efficient construction site workflows.

What is the difference between Trainee Crane Operator vs Crane Operator?

AspectTrainee Crane OperatorCrane Operator
CertificationsBasic certification or learner's permitFull certification/license required
Work ExperienceOn-the-job training, limited experienceExperienced, with proven operating skills
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, training environmentsConstruction, industrial, shipping yards
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting and learning crane operationOperating cranes independently

The main difference between a Trainee Crane Operator and a Crane Operator is experience and certification level. Trainee Crane Operators are in training, often with basic certifications, and work under supervision. Crane Operators are fully qualified, experienced professionals responsible for operating cranes independently in various industrial settings.

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 Trainee Crane Operator jobs in Iowa? For Trainee Crane Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Trainee Crane Operator job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,771 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Longseamer Trainee - Weekend Days

Sabre Industries

Sioux City, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Sabre Industries rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

523rd of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

At Sabre Industries, we connect and power America's communities with world-class utility and telecom solutions. We reliably build a better world together; one customer, one team, and one community at a time.

Our teams live out the organization's core values of integrity, commitment, innovation, and connection. That's how we continuously exceed our high standards of enterprise excellence-by creating a space for our engaged employees to thrive.

With consistent hiring opportunities nationwide and countless career levels, chances are the next big step on your career path starts here. We work with our employees to create customized career paths and development in all facets of the organization. People will always be our greatest asset and we place emphasis on enhancing the lives of our employees.

Scope of Responsibility:

Under the direct of the production supervision and Lead, the Longseam Welder uses specified welding processes and procedures to achieve 100% penetration welds for specified lengths of each shafts seam within prescribed codes, and according to prescribed procedures, specifications, and drawings.

Essential Duties:

  • Performs visual inspection of the entire length of each seam to identify areas requiring repair.
  • Reads and interprets drawings and/or computer print out "flatsheets" to determine requirement for 100% penetration welds.
  • Grinds and/or air-arc gouges areas as necessary in preparation for welding.
  • Adjusts welding machine to achieve desired results within parameters of established welding procedures.
  • Using specified welding process (FCAW, GMAW, and/or SAW,) welds required areas to obtain 100% penetration.
  • Reads and interprets applicable specifications and welding codes and procedures to determine preheat requirements. Uses oxy-fuel heating torch to preheat work specified temperature. Uses instruments provided to measure temperature of the material.
  • Reads and interprets work orders and daily production schedules. Writes entries on daily production log to show work completed.
  • Uses overhead crane to position work in pole-rollers and to move completed poles to designated areas.
  • Adds, subtracts, multiplies, and divides feet, inches, fractions, and decimals. Uses tables to convert fractions to decimals and decimals to fractions.
  • Visually inspects his/her work to assure that welds have been completed satisfactorily in accordance with applicable drawings, specifications, and codes.
  • Assists and instructs other welders when needed to overcome deficiencies in quality and/or productivity.
  • Wears protective equipment including safety glasses, insulated welding gloves, leather sleeves, and/or cape, face shield, and welding hood to protect himself from hot metal, arc rays, grinding debris, and other potentially harmful conditions.
  • Inspects end of poles for straightness and squareness of edge cuts. Trims and/or grinds as necessary, in order to leave ends suitable for shipment to customer, or for fit up base plates.
  • Uses power drills to drill and/or ream holes in pole sections as required by drawings.
  • Welds other products in his or her area using either FCAW or GMAW process.
  • Assembles two piece developments.
  • Determines amperage and voltage settings, feed rate settings, required weld procedures, weld size and amount of penetration required.
  • Grinds and/or cleans seams to ensure the required penetration and necessary UT quality weld.
  • Performs daily, weekly, monthly operator preventive maintenance on seam weld machine.
  • Adjust amperage, voltage, speed rates, and machine pressures constantly throughout the welding process to compensate for variations from the cutting and bending operations and the material variations.
  • Additional duties as assigned

Position Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent preferred
  • Must have knowledge of basic shop mathematics, addition, subtraction, fractions, multiplication and decimals.
  • Proficiency in reading complex prints and specifications.
  • Must know how to properly use a weld gauge.
  • Read and write.
  • Regular and timely attendance is required

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and moving entire body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, bending, twisting and handling of materials.
  • Must be able to work in an outside manufacturing environment for long shifts, including weekends.
  • Position requires manual dexterity, arm-hand steadiness and a safety-minded individual.
  • Must be able to work in an open environment exposed to extreme temperatures.
  • Must have the ability to concentrate on tasks for long periods of time and be able to observe and receive information from all relevant sources.

At Sabre Industries, we invest in your future with a competitive benefits program. As a full-time employee, you are eligible for:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision coverage
  • 401(k) with Company Match
  • Continuing Education & Tuition Reimbursement
  • Life and Disability Coverage
  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Health and Wellness Resources
  • Employee Discounts

Sabre Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer: M/F/Vets/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity


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