ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Counterweight Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SA Recycling

Demolition worker

Brownsville, TX

Removal of counterweight from ballast tanks such as; 50lbs lead bars, pig iron, sand, mud, etc. * Removing and sorting scrap metal, sheet metal, copper or brass piping, or any other material while on ...

SA Recycling

Demolition worker

Brownsville, TX · On-site

Removal of counterweight from ballast tanks such as; 50lbs lead bars, pig iron, sand, mud, etc. * Removing and sorting scrap metal, sheet metal, copper or brass piping, or any other material while on ...

SA Recycling

Demolition worker

Brownsville, TX · On-site

Removal of counterweight from ballast tanks such as; 50lbs lead bars, pig iron, sand, mud, etc. * Removing and sorting scrap metal, sheet metal, copper or brass piping, or any other material while on ...

MSCCN

Crane Operator - Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Ability to set up crane and dismantle boom, determine proper ballast or counterweight for job being performed, operate boom safely with maximum height and angle to work with maximum load capabilities ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCounterweight Jobs

Counterweight information

What are counterweights and what do they do in various industries?

Counterweights are heavy objects used to balance loads and provide stability in machinery and structures. They are commonly found in equipment such as elevators, cranes, forklifts, and even stage rigging systems. By offsetting the weight of a load, counterweights help reduce the amount of energy or force needed to lift or move objects, increasing safety and efficiency. Their size and material can vary depending on the application, but their primary function remains to maintain balance and prevent tipping or mechanical strain.

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

To thrive as a Counterweight Operator, you need knowledge of machinery operation, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, load measurement systems, and sometimes forklift or crane certifications are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills. These capabilities help ensure efficient, safe, and coordinated movement of heavy loads in industrial environments.

What are some common safety challenges encountered by counterweight operators and how are they addressed on the job?

Counterweight operators frequently face safety challenges such as ensuring proper load balancing, preventing tipping, and maintaining clear communication with team members during equipment movement. To address these, operators follow strict safety protocols, participate in regular training, and use checklists to inspect equipment before use. Frequent collaboration with riggers, crane operators, and ground personnel is essential to minimize risks and ensure smooth, coordinated operations. Adhering to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines also helps maintain a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Counterweight vs Crane Operator?

AspectCounterweightCrane Operator
Required CertificationsCrane or rigging certifications, safety trainingCrane operation licenses, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing facilitiesConstruction sites, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in cranes to balance loadsOperates cranes to lift and move materials

While a counterweight is a component used to balance cranes, a crane operator is the professional who controls the crane. Both roles require safety certifications and are integral to construction and industrial projects. Understanding the difference helps clarify job functions and required skills in the industry.

More about Counterweight jobs
What job categories do people searching Counterweight jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Counterweight jobs are:
Counterweight jobs near you
Infographic showing various Counterweight job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Fall/Winter Civil Field Engineer Co-op 26'-27'

Fall/Winter Civil Field Engineer Co-op 26'-27'

American Bridge Company

Seattle, WA • On-site

Temporary

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

CO-OP STUDENT OPPORTUNITY
Civil Engineering
BNSF Salmon Bay Bridge - Counterweight Replacement Project Position TitleCo-op Student - Civil EngineeringProjectBNSF Salmon Bay Bridge Counterweight ReplacementLocationSeattle, WA (Salmon Bay / Ballard area)Duration4-8 months (flexible start date)CompensationCompetitive hourly rate (commensurate with experience)Openings1-2 positions
Project Overview
The BNSF Salmon Bay Bridge is a critical rail bascule drawbridge located in Seattle, Washington, carrying BNSF Railway freight traffic across Salmon Bay between the Ballard and Interbay neighborhoods. The bridge, originally constructed in the early 20th century, is undergoing a major rehabilitation to replace its aging counterweight system - a structurally complex and operationally critical component that allows the bridge leaf to open and close for maritime traffic.
This rehabilitation project involves detailed structural analysis, design coordination, construction inspection, and close collaboration with BNSF Railway, structural engineers of record, fabricators, and regulatory agencies. The co-op student will gain hands-on experience in heavy civil infrastructure within a challenging urban marine environment.
Key Responsibilities
Construction Support & Field Work
  • Assist with construction observation and inspection activities at the project site
  • Document field conditions, construction progress, and contractor activities
  • Support quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) reviews of construction work
  • Assist in reviewing and logging submittals, RFIs (Requests for Information), and change orders

Engineering & Design Support
  • Assist in reviewing structural drawings, specifications, and shop drawing submittals
  • Support load calculations, structural checks, and counterweight balance analyses
  • Help coordinate with fabricators and contractors on technical issues
  • Assist in preparing engineering reports, memoranda, and technical documentation

Project Administration
  • Maintain organized project files, construction logs, and correspondence records
  • Support schedule tracking and coordination of project milestones
  • Assist in preparing meeting minutes and action item tracking
  • Participate in project meetings with the client, contractors, and regulatory stakeholders

Qualifications
Required
  • Currently enrolled in an accredited Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or related undergraduate/graduate program
  • Completion of coursework in structural analysis, mechanics of materials, or structural design
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a project team

Preferred
  • Prior internship, co-op, or construction experience (any discipline considered)
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD, Revit, or structural analysis software (SAP2000, RISA, etc.)
  • Coursework or interest in bridge engineering, structural rehabilitation, or transportation infrastructure
  • Familiarity with AREMA (American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association) standards
  • Experience or willingness to work in an active construction site environment

Learning Outcomes
Students completing this co-op placement will develop competencies in:
  • Real-world application of structural engineering principles to a complex movable bridge rehabilitation
  • Understanding of the full project lifecycle from design coordination through construction administration
  • Communication and collaboration skills within multi-disciplinary engineering teams
  • Familiarity with heavy civil construction methods, materials, and safety protocols
  • Exposure to railroad infrastructure standards, maritime permitting, and project stakeholder management

Work Environment & Requirements
  • Work is split between office/project team environment and active construction site visits
  • Site visits require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety vest, and steel-toed boots - provided or reimbursed
  • Must be able to climb stairs, access elevated work platforms, and work near open water
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel locally to the project site required
  • Must comply with BNSF Railway site safety and security access requirements (background check may be required)

How to Apply
To be considered for this co-op position, please submit the following:
  • Resume (include GPA, relevant coursework, and any prior work/project experience)
  • Unofficial academic transcript
  • Brief cover letter describing your interest in the project and relevant skills (1 page max)

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submission is encouraged as positions may fill prior to the posted deadline.

Apply