Crane Operator

Overview

The Crane Operator supports safe and efficient lifting operations across data center, construction, and other mission‑critical job sites. This role is responsible for operating mobile and industrial cranes to move, position, and install heavy materials and equipment in coordination with the Rigging Project Manager, Lead Rigger (Rigger III), and rigging teams. The Crane Operator ensures all lifting operations meet regulatory, engineering, and site-specific requirements. This position may also support rigging or material movement tasks when not actively operating a crane. 

Responsibilities

• Operate cranes to lift, move, and position materials and equipment on data center, construction, and mission‑critical job sites 

• Execute lifts in coordination with Rigger III (Lead Rigger), rigging crews, and the Rigging Project Manager 

• Follow engineered lift plans, load charts, and site specifications to ensure safe operations 

• Conduct daily and pre‑shift inspections of crane equipment; document findings and address deficiencies 

• Communicate effectively using hand signals, radios, and standard crane communication protocols 

• Perform setup, leveling, and dismantling of crane equipment according to manufacturer and safety guidelines 

• Support rigging operations when not actively operating the crane, including assisting with load preparation or site logistics 

• Participate in pre‑lift meetings, safety briefings, and toolbox talks 

• Monitor jobsite conditions to identify hazards, unsafe practices, or changing conditions requiring work stoppage or adjustment 

• Maintain compliance with OSHA, ANSI, manufacturer requirements, and company safety standards 

• Document lift activities, inspections, and equipment usage as required 

• Collaborate closely with the Rigging Project Manager to support schedule needs, field coordination, and customer requirements 

Qualifications

Education & Experience 

• High school diploma or equivalent 

• 3–5 years of crane operation experience in industrial, commercial, or mission‑critical construction environments 

• Previous experience working closely with rigging teams on complex or critical lifts 

• Ability to interpret lift plans, load charts, and technical drawings 

• Experience working in data center environments strongly preferred 

Certifications 

• Valid crane operator certification (NCCCO or equivalent required) 

• OSHA 10 required; OSHA 30 preferred 

• Forklift certification preferred 

• Fall protection certification required 

• Valid, clean driver’s license (CDL preferred but not required unless needed for specific crane types) 

Skills 

• Expert proficiency operating cranes safely in tight, high‑risk, or congested job sites 

• Strong understanding of load dynamics, lift planning, and rigging principles 

• Ability to communicate clearly with riggers, signal personnel, and site leadership 

• High-level situational awareness with strong hazard recognition skills 

• Ability to follow engineered lift plans and adjust operations based on site conditions 

• Strong teamwork, reliability, and the ability to support field operations as needed 

• Commitment to compliance with OSHA, manufacturer specifications, and site safety procedures