The Certified Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes aboard dredges, support barges, and shore-based facilities to support dredging, marine construction, and material-handling operations. This role requires precision equipment handling in challenging marine and waterfront environments, strict adherence to safety regulations, and close coordination with dredge crews, deckhands, and project supervisors.
Key Responsibilities
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Operate barge-mounted, crawler, or pedestal cranes to load, unload, and position pipe, anchors, spuds, rigging, and other dredging equipment.
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Perform daily pre-operation inspections of crane systems, including hydraulics, cables, hooks, boom, and safety devices; report and document any deficiencies.
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Follow rigging plans and load charts to ensure safe lifting capacities are never exceeded.
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Coordinate lifts with signal persons, riggers, and deck crew using standard hand signals and/or radio communication.
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Assist with the placement and movement of pipeline, spuds, anchors, and other dredge support equipment.
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Maintain accurate operational logs, inspection records, and maintenance reports.
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Comply with USACE, OSHA, USCG, and company safety standards at all times.
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Participate in job safety analyses (JSAs) and toolbox talks prior to lifts and daily operations.
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Perform routine and preventive maintenance on crane equipment as required.
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Respond to changing weather, water, and site conditions, adjusting operations to maintain safety.
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Work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and extended hitches typical of dredging projects.
Required Qualifications
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Current NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) certification, or equivalent state/accredited certification, in the applicable crane category (e.g., Lattice Boom Crawler, Articulating, or Fixed Cab).
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Minimum 2–5 years of verifiable crane operation experience, preferably in dredging, marine construction, or heavy civil projects.
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Valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential).
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Strong working knowledge of rigging practices, load charts, and lift planning.
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Ability to read and interpret load charts, blueprints, and rigging diagrams.
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Basic mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and routine crane maintenance.
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Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a marine crew.
Preferred Qualifications
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Prior experience operating cranes on cutterhead dredges, or dredge support barges.
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OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification.
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USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), if applicable to the vessel type.
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First Aid/CPR certification.
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Experience with pipeline handling, anchor systems, and spud barges.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, and access confined crane cabs.
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Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical tasks in outdoor marine environments.
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Comfortable working on water, around heavy machinery, and in variable weather conditions.
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Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment and maintain sustained focus and situational awareness.
Work Environment
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Position is based aboard dredges, support vessels, or barges, often in remote or offshore locations.
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Work schedule typically follows rotating hitches 20/10 common in the dredging industry.
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Exposure to noise, vibration, weather elements, and marine conditions is expected.
Compensation & Benefits
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Competitive hourly/day rate, commensurate with experience and certification level
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Health, dental, and vision insurance
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401(k) or retirement plan
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Paid certification renewal and ongoing safety training
The Certified Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes aboard dredges, support barges, and shore-based facilities to support dredging, marine construction, and material-handling operations. This role requires precision equipment handling in challenging marine and waterfront environments, strict adherence to safety regulations, and close coordination with dredge crews, deckhands, and project supervisors.
