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Bulk Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Bulk Terminal Operator About CIG Logistics: CIG Logistics is a national leader in ... silos and elevators, crane operation and rigging. * Perform other duties as assigned Basic ...

Job Title: Bulk Terminal Operator About CIG Logistics: CIG Logistics is a national leader in ... silos and elevators, crane operation and rigging. * Perform other duties as assigned Basic ...

Port Operator C

Ravena, NY · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

This role supports vessel loading and unloading, bulk material handling, and overall yard ... Communicate effectively with supervisors, crane operators, and ground personnel to coordinate ...

Multi Duty Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$29.28/hr

Experience with loading and unloading bulk liquids from railcars or trucks * Experience and/or basic operating knowledge of batch processes, filtration, and pumping systems * High school diploma/GED ...

Industrial Forklift Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

... areas Support crane discharge operations (approx. 12-14 bags per truck loads) Maintain safe ... bulk/bagged commodity handling preferred TWIC card required Ability to work day or night shifts ...

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Bulk Crane Operator information

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$14

$28

$40

How much do bulk crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for bulk crane operator in the United States is $28.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Bulk Crane Operator during daily operations?

Bulk Crane Operators often encounter challenges such as managing heavy loads with precision, adapting to variable weather conditions, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Daily operations require constant communication with ground crews and supervisors to coordinate efficient material movement. Operators must also remain vigilant for mechanical issues and perform basic maintenance checks to prevent downtime, making attention to detail and situational awareness crucial for success in this role.

What is the difference between Bulk Crane Operator vs Tower Crane Operator?

AspectBulk Crane OperatorTower Crane Operator
CertificationsCrane Operator Certification, OSHA safety trainingCrane Operator Certification, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, ports, industrial yardsHigh-rise construction sites, urban projects
Industry UsageHeavy lifting of bulk materials like coal, gravelPrecise lifting of materials at height, building structures

Both roles require crane operator certifications and safety training. Bulk Crane Operators typically work with large, mobile cranes handling bulk materials in industrial settings, while Tower Crane Operators focus on high-rise construction, lifting materials to great heights. The main difference lies in the type of crane operated and the work environment, though both are essential in construction and industrial industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bulk Crane Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bulk Crane Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized crane operation certification. Familiarity with crane controls, load monitoring systems, and safety protocols is essential, and operators often use equipment such as overhead cranes and computerized control panels. Attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work calmly under pressure are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and precise handling of heavy materials, minimizing workplace hazards and maximizing productivity.

What are Bulk Crane Operators?

Bulk Crane Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating cranes to move large quantities of materials, such as bulk cargo, containers, or construction materials, at ports, warehouses, or construction sites. They ensure the safe and efficient handling and placement of heavy loads using specialized equipment. Operators must follow strict safety protocols, communicate with ground crews, and perform routine maintenance checks on their machinery. This role requires training, attention to detail, and often certification or licensing depending on local regulations.
Infographic showing various Bulk Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,350 per year, or $28.1 per hour.
Operator/Material Handler

Operator/Material Handler

Ingram Barge Company

Granite City, IL

$30/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Ingram Marine Group operates across America's inland waterways, moving bulk commodities that keep the country running. Our teams transport materials by barge, deliver fuel and supplies to the towing industry, and manage a ship anchorage facility in Louisiana.

As an industry leader, we operate a fleet of approximately 140 towboats and 5,000 barges carrying aggregates, grain, fertilizer, coal, ores, alloys, steel products, chemicals, and more.

We're committed to being the best at what we do. We continue to grow, adapt, and improve and our success is driven by the hard work, dedication, and innovative thinking of our associates.

Job Description

Ingram Marine Group is looking for a Crane Operator/Material Handler in our St. Louis, MO area terminals.  The River Terminal Crane Operator 1 is responsible for safely and efficiently operating material handlers (Sennebogen or other) to transfer materials and perform various tasks at a river terminal. The operator will assist in loading/unloading cargo, managing inventory, and maintaining a smooth workflow in the terminal.

What you will be doing:

  • Operating a material handler to load and unload cargo efficiently and safely
  • Assisting in the loading and unloading of cargo from vessels, trucks, and rail cars
  • Operating terminal equipment such as conveyors
  • Assisting with the resetting and removing of barge covers
  • Monitoring and communicating with the rail car loading team or truck drivers
  • Performing routine checks on equipment, completing daily check lists, and reporting any malfunctions or maintenance needs
  • Following safety protocols and ensure compliance with safety regulations and company policies
  • Maintaining a clean and safe work area, including dock areas, warehouse spaces, and cargo storage areas
  • Communicating effectively with supervisors, coworkers, and vessel crew members to ensure smooth operations
  • Assisting with inventory, including tracking cargo, and reporting discrepancies
  • Performing general labor tasks such as cleaning, sorting, and organizing goods, tools, and supplies
  • Working in varying weather conditions and maintaining physical stamina throughout shifts
  • Performing any other reasonable tasks as requested
Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Physical activities that are essentials to daily functions include but are not limited to:
    • Regularly lifting loads up to 50lbs unassisted and occasionally up to 75lbs
    • Climbing of ladders over 20' of vertical height while using fall protection
    • Frequently carrying, dragging, and pulling of wires, lines and railcar door opener equipment
    • Frequent bending, twisting, kneeling, and reaching
    • Frequent shoveling and sweeping and strenuous sledgehammering of railcars 
    • Familiarity with safety protocols and ability to follow instructions
  • Proven experience operating material handlers, preferably in a river terminal or maritime environment.
  • Strong knowledge of safety regulations and best practices in crane operations
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, outdoor environment in varying weather conditions
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a team
  • Physical fitness to handle the demands of the job, including lifting and climbing

Other Requirements:

  • High School Diploma is required
  • Previous experience in a warehouse, dock, or terminal environment is a plus
  • Crane Operator Certification is required
Additional Information

Work Environment and Conditions:

  • Outdoor/indoor working environment with exposure to loud noises, dust, and potentially hazardous materials
  • Shift work may be required, including weekends or holidays, depending on the operation schedule
  • Will be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety vests, hard hats, gloves, and steel-toe boots

Pay:

$30.00/hour with opportunity for overtime

If you are requesting reasonable accommodation or disability assistance in submitting your application, you may email us at [email protected]

Ingram Marine Group and its affiliates ("Company") is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, work related mental or physical disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. 

EEO/AA Employer/Vet/Disabled

We participate in EVerify

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