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Contractual Overhead Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crane Operator 1 (Overhead)

Walker, LA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Operates traveling or stationary overhead crane (cab- or ground controlled) to lift, move, and ... Cinder Crane Operator (foundry; steel & rel.) I; Gantry Crane Operator (any industry); Hot-Metal ...

Overhead Crane Operator / Material Handler $27.22/hr | Union Opportunity | Bonuses | Career Growth Shift Options 1st Shift: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM - 2:30 PM 2nd Shift: Monday-Thursday, 2:30 PM - 12 ...

Overhead Crane Operator

Farrell, PA ยท On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

NLMK USA is looking for Overhead Crane Operator Employees. We are dedicated to providing our employees with a safe, stable workplace where teamwork, attention to detail and quality customer service ...

Overhead Crane Operator

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$15 - $17.50/hr

Overhead Crane Operator Infrastructure Products Group North Houston, Texas, United States Job ID: 528205 Non-Exempt Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We ...

Overhead Crane Operator

Livingston, LA ยท On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Crane Operator Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an ... Experience: A minimum of six months' experience with overhead crane operation * Computer Skills:

Overhead Crane Operator

Greeley, CO ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Possible job requirements will be picking/banding/stacking steel bundles, reading a tape measure, assisting crane operators with bundle placement, operating various machinery such as overhead cranes ...

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Contractual Overhead Crane Operator information

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How much do contractual overhead crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for contractual overhead crane operator in the United States is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contractual overhead crane operator?

Contractual Overhead Crane Operators are skilled professionals who operate overhead cranes on a temporary or project-specific basis, typically under a contract with an employer or client. Their main responsibility is to safely move heavy materials and equipment within warehouses, construction sites, factories, or shipping yards. They must be trained in crane operation, safety protocols, and basic maintenance. Contractual operators may work for various companies depending on project needs and are often required to have certifications or licenses relevant to crane operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contractual overhead crane operator?

To thrive as a Contractual Overhead Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of crane operation, safety regulations, and load management, typically supported by a high school diploma and relevant operator certification. Familiarity with control systems, rigging equipment, and maintenance protocols is essential, and many employers require OSHA Crane Operator certification. Attention to detail, effective communication, and strong situational awareness are key soft skills for ensuring safe and efficient operations. These skills and qualities are crucial to prevent accidents, maximize productivity, and maintain a safe work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by contractual overhead crane operators, and how can they be effectively managed?

Contractual Overhead Crane Operators often work in dynamic industrial environments where project timelines and safety standards are critical. Common challenges include adapting quickly to different site protocols, handling varying equipment models, and coordinating with changing teams. Effective communication with supervisors and rigging crews, maintaining up-to-date certifications, and consistently following safety procedures are crucial for overcoming these challenges. Staying proactive about equipment inspections and fostering strong teamwork can also help mitigate potential issues and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Contractual Overhead Crane Operator vs Non-Contractual Overhead Crane Operator?

AspectContractual Overhead Crane OperatorNon-Contractual Overhead Crane Operator
CredentialsOSHA certification, crane operation licenseOSHA certification, crane operation license
Work EnvironmentTemporary or project-based sites, industrial facilitiesPermanent facilities, manufacturing plants
Employer & Industry UsageContract companies, construction, shippingManufacturing, warehousing, industrial plants

The main difference between Contractual Overhead Crane Operators and Non-Contractual Overhead Crane Operators lies in employment type and work setting. Contractual operators are hired on a temporary basis for specific projects, often working at various sites, while non-contractual operators are employed directly by a company for ongoing, permanent roles within industrial facilities.

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What states have the most Contractual Overhead Crane Operator jobs?

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The top searched job categories for Contractual Overhead Crane Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Contractual Overhead Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,735 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Crane Operator 1 (Overhead)

The Shaw Group, LLC

Walker, LA โ€ข On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Summary:

Overhead - Capable of certifying on forklifts, ariel lifts and lulls, but specializes in overhead crane.  Operates traveling or stationary overhead crane (cab- or ground controlled) to lift, move, and position loads, such as machinery, equipment, products, and solid or bulk materials, using hoisting attachments, such as hook, sling, electromagnet, or bucket. 

Responsibilities:

  • Observes load hook-up and determines safety of load. 
  • Manipulates or depresses crane controls, such as pedals, levers, and buttons, to regulate speed and direction of crane and hoist movement according to written, verbal, or signal instructions. 
  • Cleans and maintains crane and hoisting mechanism. 
  • Inspects crane for defective parts and notifies supervisor of defects or malfunctions. 
  • May attach load to hook or other crane accessory prior to operating crane and be designated Crane Operator-Hooker (steel & rel.) or Crane Operator-Hooktender (aircraft mfg.). 
  • May be designated by type of crane operated or material handled as Bridge Crane Operator (any industry); Charging-Crane Operator (foundry; steel & rel.) I; Cinder Crane Operator (foundry; steel & rel.) I; Gantry Crane Operator (any industry); Hot-Metal Crane Operator (foundry; nonfer. metal; steel & rel.) I; Ingot Stripper (steel & rel.) I; Scrap Crane Operator (steel & rel.) I; Tower Whirler Operator (any industry); Wall-Crane Operator (foundry). 
  • Responsible for observing and complying with all safety and project rules, including wearing required personal safety equipment. Performs other duties and activities as required.
  • Performing only those jobs on which they have been trained and/or authorized.
  • Working in accordance with safe job practices and complying with company safety rules
  • Using required personal protective equipment
  • Reporting unsafe conditions or practices
  • Making safety suggestions
  • Serving on the safety committee if requested
  • Cooperating during investigation of any accidents that occur
  • Taking an active part and participating in safety meetings, pre-job safety briefings, task hazard analyses and Job Safety Analyses.
  • Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job.
  • Works under minimum supervision. 
  • Typically reports to a supervisor.

Education and Experience:

  • May require a high school diploma or its equivalent with previous years of experience in the field or in a related area. 
  • Has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. 

Physical Requirements:

NP=Not Present, O=Occasionally (0-33%), F=Frequently (34-66%), C=Constantly (67-100%)

Standing

C

Walking

C

Sitting

F

Pushing

F

Pulling

F

Climbing

O

Balancing

O

Bending

F

Stooping

F

Kneeling

F

Crouching

F

Crawling

F

Reaching

C

Handling

C

Fingering

C

Feeling

C

Vision

C

Hearing

C

Lifting (lbs)


Carrying (lbs)


0-10

C

0-10

C


10-25

F

10-25

F

25-50

O

25-50

O

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.