Field Crane Operator

Field Crane Operator

STG Inc. excels at infrastructure development in environmentally and logistically complex locations. Our teams deliver specialized projects across Alaska, including wind energy installations, communication towers, and power systems for remote communities. All our work is guided by our mission to support the sustainable development of rural Alaska by delivering projects with the highest levels of professionalism, innovation, safety, and quality. We provide training and advancement paths that allow you to grow your career while delivering essential services to communities that need them most.

As the Field Crane Operator, you will work onsite in Alaska and will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes used to lift, move, and position materials, equipment, and structural components on construction projects. You will support field operations by performing crane operations, rigging, equipment inspections, and routine preventative maintenance to ensure equipment reliability and compliance with safety standards. You will work closely with project supervisors, riggers, and other trades to execute lifting operations in accordance with load charts, project plans, and site conditions. This role requires strong attention to safety, situational awareness, and teamwork while supporting overall project productivity and operational efficiency in the field.

Responsibilities:

• Operate various types of cranes under general supervision to lift, move, and set machines, materials, and other loads on a wide variety of construction projects.
• Assemble, set up, and rig cranes properly according to manufacturer specifications and project requirements.
• Operate crane and related equipment in a safe, precise, and efficient manner.
• Operate crane or act as rigger/signal person depending on workload, personnel availability, and project needs.
• Operate cranes in accordance with load charts, ensuring proper capacities and safe lifting procedures.
• Operate cranes based on written, verbal, or signal instructions from supervisors or designated personnel.
• Inspect cranes for safety and operational readiness and report any concerns or deficiencies immediately.
• Complete job tickets, crane inspection reports, and other required documentation accurately and on time.
• Perform all preventative maintenance tasks, including lubrication, cleaning, fluid sampling, replenishment, and component inspections for damage or wear.
• Inspect lifting gear, slings, hooks, and rigging equipment prior to each use to ensure safe and proper operation.
• Ensure all lifts are within equipment load limits and properly rigged.
• Maintain constant awareness of external conditions, surroundings, and environmental factors that could affect crane operation.
• Follow directives from the Project Foreman or senior staff, demonstrating initiative and maintaining productivity while on the jobsite.
• Maintain required certifications and licenses for crane operation and complete ongoing refresher training as mandated.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, manufacturer guidelines, and company safety policies during all lifting and rigging operations.
• Participate in daily pre-lift planning and toolbox talks to review lift plans, site hazards, and safety measures.
• Communicate near-misses or safety concerns to improve jobsite safety practices.
• Apply versatile construction skills to assist other trades as needed to meet project goals. Collaborate and communicate effectively with a variety of trades and personnel on the jobsite.
• Participate in professional development and training opportunities to maintain and improve operational skills.
• Process and submit all necessary paperwork to Project Management and Accounting in a timely manner.
• Perform repairs and replace components or parts on heavy equipment as needed to ensure operational readiness.
• Conduct oneself in the best interest of the company while on the jobsites or representing STG.
• Report any incidents, unsafe situations, or activities that may affect the company's ability to operate safely, ethically, and profitably to the company Risk Manager.
• Act as a team member and mentor for less experienced laborers.
• Cook, clean, and perform general field duties as necessary when working in rural field quarters.
• Work as a respectful and supportive team player with co-workers.
• Work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Intermediate and advanced knowledge of all aspects of crane operation and rigging, including operating, control, and maintenance.
• Ability to perform physical labor requiring considerable use of arms and legs, including climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials at construction sites.
• Precise knowledge and skill to safely operate and control cranes ranging from 50 to 100 tons.
• Knowledge of the crane and construction industry, with the ability to stay up to date on industry regulations, codes, and best practices.
• Knowledge of construction and crane operation safety protocols, including OSHA standards and company-specific safety procedures.
• Skill in inspecting cranes, rigging, and lifting equipment for proper operation, maintenance, and safety compliance.
• Strong attention to detail with a safety-first mindset.
• Ability to observe safety and security procedures, determine appropriate actions beyond guidelines, report potentially unsafe conditions, and properly use equipment and materials.
• All-around knowledge of materials, terms, and practices in the construction field.
• Proficiency with hand and power tools used in crane and general construction operations.
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle and follow company driving policies
• Ability to perform trade duties for long hours, day after day, often in adverse conditions, to complete projects.
• Ability to prioritize and plan work activities, efficiently use time, allocate resources, set goals, and develop realistic action plans.
• Ability to follow instructions, respond to direction, and be accountable for personal actions.
• Ability to foster a cooperative and team-oriented work environment.
• Effective professional communication and interpersonal skills for both internal and external written and verbal communication.
• Skill in organizing resources, establishing priorities, meeting deadlines, and general time management.
• Ability to work in a team environment, take directions from supervisors, maintain attention to detail, follow work rules, and adhere to project schedules.
• Ability to work productively under pressure and maintain focus in high-demand situations.
• Strong self-motivation and work ethic; ability to work independently or with minimal supervision.
• Ability to actively participate in group meetings, briefings, and pre-lift planning discussions.
• Ability to travel for work-related purposes (up to 100% of the time).
• Ability to meet attendance requirements and work a flexible schedule as needed.
• Ability to work in all weather conditions and outdoor environments; prior experience in Alaska's rural construction industry is preferred.
• Ability to live and work with co-workers in close quarters while maintaining positive morale.
• Possess and maintain required crane operator certifications and licenses (e.g., NCCCO or equivalent) and complete refresher training as mandated.
• Ability to plan, review, and execute lifts safely, including assessing lift plans, environmental conditions, and potential hazards.
• Ability to respond appropriately to emergencies, equipment malfunctions, or unsafe conditions during crane operations.
• Ability to mentor and provide guidance to less experienced crane operators or riggers.
• Knowledge of company-specific reporting procedures for incidents, equipment inspections, and lift documentation.
• Familiarity with modern crane technology, including digital load monitoring and telemetry systems.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule and adapt to project-specific requirements.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive crane operation experience, preferably in heavy civil, construction, or industrial projects.
• Crane Operator Certification required.
• Rigger/Signalperson Certification required.
• Ability to travel to rural locations and work extended hours, including nights and weekends, as project demands require.
• Valid state driver's license and qualified to operate a vehicle under the conditions of Company's Driving Policy preferred.
• Ability to pass a drug, driving (if applicable), and background screening.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Pile driving experience preferred.
• Experience in rural or Arctic environments is strongly preferred.

Working Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to