Crane Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Steam Crane Operator 

Job Purpose and Position Overview: Snow & Company is seeking talented and skilled Steam Crane Operator  to join our team! The steam crane operator will be responsible for lifting and moving materials around the shipyard as safely and efficiently as possible. They will work directly with the chief engineer, 300 deckhand, and tug crew to ensure each job is performed safely and effectively. This position requires a strong understanding of the operations of a slip friction crane.  

We are looking for positive, motivated self-starters with a strong work ethic who can follow direction and work efficiently with minimal supervision. As a team-oriented company, we value individuals with a collaborative and innovative thought process. Given our quick turnaround times and strict deadlines, candidates must thrive in a fast-paced environment, demonstrate attention to detail, and maintain a positive, can-do attitude. We need individuals who are deadline-driven, have a strong commitment to safety, and can consistently exhibit excellent attendance. Our ideal candidates will take pride in customer satisfaction, have high integrity, and be dependable. We offer rewarding jobs and take pride in delivering exceptional quality work.

We’re currently involved in some interesting, high-impact projects, including two cutting-edge electric tugboats, and an 8-year contract to build advanced workboats for the US Navy. It’s an exciting time to be part of our team as we push the boundaries of innovation and craftsmanship!

Key Responsibilities:

• Conducting crane safety checks before operation
• Setting up cranes for operation
  • Positioning
  • Rigging
  • Loading
• Moving material through shipyard according to schedule
• Monitoring crane stability and load weights
• Working with a chief engineer, deckhand, and tug crew to ensure site safety
• Making minor repairs to machinery
• Reporting any issues to the chief engineer
• Keeping records of materials moved
• Ensuring that travel routes are clear

Essential Skills:

• Thorough understanding of steam engines
• Read blueprints or designs to understand the requirements of the job
• Act independently with limited supervisory oversight
• Mechanical knowledge
  • Serious knowledge of the workings of a slip friction crane 
• Sharp situational awareness and alertness
• Extreme attention to detail
• Strong verbal communication skills 

Certifications / Licenses:

• NCCCO Crane Operator Certification for Latice Boom required
• 3 or more years of experience in a similar role

Physical and Environmental Demands:

The work environment is a dynamic, fast-paced shipyard with moderate to loud noise levels due to ongoing production activities. Job duties are performed in production areas and onboard vessels and require:

• The ability to walk to and from job sites, climb inclined stairways, and use vertical ladders
• Frequent bending, squatting, crawling, twisting, standing, walking, sitting, and use of hands/fingers for various tasks
• Occasional reaching, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, and crawling
• Frequent lifting of up to 20 lbs, with occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs
• The ability to work in extreme temperatures and conditions, including areas with limited ventilation
• The ability to enter and work in confined spaces, such as manholes
• The ability to work at heights
• Frequent use of a respirator
• Wearing required safety gear, including a hard hat, gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing
• Regular exposure to noise from machinery and equipment

Pay and Benefits:

• $45 - $50 / hour
• Full time, overtime non-exempt position
• Overtime may be available
• Positive and supportive work environment
• 100% paid medical insurance for employees, 80% for spouses and dependents
• Comprehensive dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance options available
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match up to 5%
• Flexible and generous Paid Time Off plan 
• 9 paid holidays, including the day after the Super Bowl

About Snow & Company: Snow & Company is a leading boatbuilding and ship repair company located in the Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. We specialize in constructing commercial vessels for the fishing industry, government agencies, tugboat operators, aquaculture businesses, and more. In addition to vessel construction, we provide comprehensive overhauls and repair services. Our modern facilities include enclosed fabrication halls and waterfront repair spaces, all situated along the picturesque Ship Canal. Conveniently located on the Burke-Gilman Trail and just one block from the Metro bus stop, Snow & Company is a commuter-friendly workplace.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Snow & Company, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, age, disability, or genetic information. In addition to federal laws, Snow & Company complies with all applicable state and local nondiscrimination laws.

For more information, check out our website at