Crane Operator

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The primary responsibility of the Crane Operator is to safely and efficiently load and unload cargo from vessels. This position also performs highly skilled work involving the operation and general maintenance of a variety of heavy equipment used in maritime and terminal operations.

The Crane Operator must be qualified to operate various types of equipment, including cranes, container handlers/stackers, yard hustlers, forklifts, farm equipment, heavy industrial and construction equipment, and tractor-trailers. This position requires a high level of skill in the safe and efficient operation of large and heavy equipment and a thorough understanding of vessel, terminal, and cargo-handling operations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Safely and efficiently operate gantry cranes, container handlers, forklifts, yard hustlers, and other vessel and terminal support equipment.
• Load, unload, move, stack, and position cargo in accordance with established operating and safety procedures.
• Perform preventive maintenance, corrosion control, corrective maintenance, and minor repairs on assigned equipment, as appropriate.
• Complete required daily, monthly, and annual equipment and safety inspections; accurately document results in applicable equipment or machinery logs and assist with corrective actions as needed.
• Maintain qualification and proficiency in vessel operations, terminal support, and warehouse support equipment as required.
• Participate in the training of support personnel, including flagmen, oilers, yard personnel, and new equipment operators.
• Maintain proficiency standards established by management and participate in operator proficiency evaluations as required.
• Demonstrate thorough knowledge of the proper care, operation, and safe use of light and heavy equipment used in maritime operations.
• Understand and comply with applicable laws, regulations, safety standards, company policies, and operating procedures.
• Know and correctly use standard hand signals required for crane operations and ensure compliance with established signaling procedures.
• Maintain awareness of surrounding personnel, equipment, cargo, and changing conditions to ensure safe operations.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

• Previous crane operating experience required.
• Previous experience in the stevedoring or maritime industry preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Forklift certification required.
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) required.
• Ability to understand and correctly interpret equipment load charts.
• Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to changing conditions that may affect the safe operation of a crane or other equipment.
• Ability to pick, carry, swing, position, and place loads smoothly, accurately, and safely.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving ability, and sound judgment.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, team members, and support personnel using radio communication, verbal instructions, and/or standard hand signals.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and provide leadership or direction when required.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Resourceful, dependable, and able to manage multiple responsibilities.
• Ability to communicate and work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and roles.
• Ability to work overtime, including weekdays, weekends, holidays, and varying shifts as operational needs require.
• Ability to successfully complete all required pre-employment and/or ongoing screening requirements, including drug screening, physical examination, and background check.

Required Operational Knowledge

Basic knowledge and demonstrated understanding of the following:

• Equipment and workplace safety procedures
• Truck and equipment inspections
• Storage and exchange points
• Counterbalance principles
• Stability triangle
• Center of gravity
• Equipment terminology
• Attachments and load centers
• Battery inspection
• Material-handling procedures
• Loading and de-stacking
• Unloading and stacking
• Counterbalance equipment operation
• Traveling on ramps and within trailers
• Equipment parking and securing procedures

COMPETENCIES

Verbal and Written Comprehension
Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including general, technical, and safety-related communications.

Communication Skills
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively and provide accurate instructions and directions.

Reasoning and Problem Solving
Ability to identify operational issues, troubleshoot problems, assess changing conditions, and determine appropriate courses of action.

Time Management and Organization
Ability to effectively manage time, prioritize responsibilities, and handle a broad range of activities in a fast-paced operational environment.

Safety Awareness
Demonstrates consistent awareness of workplace hazards and follows established safety procedures, regulations, and operating practices.

Teamwork and Leadership
Works effectively with others and demonstrates the ability to provide guidance, instruction, and leadership when necessary.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to handle or operate equipment and controls, and reach with hands and arms. The position may require climbing, bending, stooping, and working at varying heights.

The employee must be able to lift, carry, push, pull, and/or move up to 50 pounds unassisted.

The work environment includes hazards and conditions typical of maritime, terminal, and heavy-equipment operations, including exposure to moving machinery, heavy equipment, elevated work areas, cargo-handling operations, chemicals, and other industrial hazards.

Employees may be exposed to varying and potentially extreme weather conditions, temperatures, ventilation, lighting, noise levels, and other environmental conditions. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn as required.

The employee must be able to safely perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.