Crane Operator (All Levels)

Job Posting End Date: Until Filled

Shift: ALL

Security Clearance: No Clearance Required

Who We Are

General Dynamics NASSCO is one of three shipyards in the Marine Systems group of General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE: GD). General Dynamics NASSCO traces its beginnings to the industrial heart of San Diego, along the working waterfront of beautiful and historic San Diego Bay. The company has been designing and building ships in San Diego's industrial corridor since 1960 and is the largest full service shipyard on the West Coast of the United States

Job Summary

Operates a variety of diesel electric cranes, including portal, tower, mobile, mobile (auxiliary), overhead (cab), overhead (floor), to lift and move heavy objects and machinery. Responds to ground signals to rotate boom, alter angle of boom, reposition crane and raise and lowers load. Inspects crane for defective parts and performs routine maintenance and inspection procedures. Performs other related tasks as assigned, some of which may become essential to the position.

Qualifications Standards

Must have knowledge of mechanical and crane operation principles. NCCCO License to operate Mobile Hydraulic Crane (All Terrain) preferred. Crane Operator with extensive Rigging experience preferred. Must be able to comprehend ship nomenclature (decks, port, stbd, fwd, aft, frame number, compartment location, etc.) Must be able to coordinate hand, foot and eye movement. Basic knowledge and comprehension of weights and conversion (lbs, tons, kilograms) needed. Knowledge and comprehension of universal hand-signals for rigging and crane operations necessary with the ability to clearly communicate via hand-held radio. Must have the ability to work at heights, in confined spaces, and be available to work any shift. Must comprehend written and verbal instructions, hear warning signals and read and comprehend safety instructions, regulations and warnings.

Essential Job Tasks

Operate diesel electric cranes, including portal, tower, mobile, mobile (auxiliary), overhead (cab), overhead (floor) cranes; rotate and alter boom angles in response to radio or hand signals to raise, lower and transfer loads.


Set up machinery and equipment, including boom lengths and crib outriggers.

Rig machinery and material in and out of ships.

Provide data into log books relating to lifts.

Read load charts and understand different types of load materials and landing areas.


Inspect cranes for proper operation.

Conduct pre and post-job inspections independently and/or with supervision.

Perform minor crane maintenance, clean windows, and make basic repairs.

Train and mentor others in essential rigging job functions and safe crane operations.

Other job duties as assigned relevant to the trade.

Materials, Tools, Equipment, Work Aids

Basic hand and power tools, rigging tools, gloves, lubricating greases, oil, and cleaning solvents. Personal protective equipment required.

Physical/Mental Involvement

Repetitive or prolonged sitting, climbing, balancing, and lifting. Lifting body weight, sitting, reaching, handling, pushing/pulling, standing, walking, leaning and seeing (to maintain visual contact with load), eye/hand/foot coordination. Hearing warning signals, reading and comprehending safety instructions and planning sequence. Works in all areas of the shipyard and on board ships. Hearing warning signals and reading and comprehending safety instructions. Must be able to maintain general safety awareness and avoid hazards commonly present in employee's work area.


Marginal Job Tasks

Housekeeping in all work areas, including sweeping. May be required to attend safety, quality and/or process improvement meetings.

Environmental Factors

Exposure to wind, rain, ambient temperatures such as extreme heat and cold, wet and humid conditions, dust, and toxic/caustic chemicals. Works at heights of up to 120' on piers or barges. Exposed to high levels of constant noise.

PAY SCALE $36.67 - $40.02

This pay range is a reasonable estimate of the hourly range for this role. It takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions; including but not limited to skill sets, experience, training, and education. General Dynamics NASSCO also provides a variety of benefits including medical & dental insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, flexible spending accounts/HSAs, life and disability insurance, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), wellness coaching, and an onsite health services.


This pay range is a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role. It takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions; including but not limited to skill sets, experience, training, and education. General Dynamics NASSCO also provides a variety of benefits including medical & dental insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, flexible spending accounts/HSAs, life and disability insurance, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), wellness coaching, and an onsite health services.


General Dynamics NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.

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