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Counterweight Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You'll be the counterweight to the chaos that ensues - a detail-obsessed and process-driven engineer who brings stability. This person will face foundational problems in geospatial systems that ...

Cold Mill Operator 1

Davenport, IA · On-site

$19.50 - $25.50/hr

Directs and/or assists roll changes using power crane and counterbalance using adjustable sliding counterweight to achieve correct balance. * Maintains housekeeping in work area. * Scrapes floor ...

Rigging Design Engineer - Clearwing

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

... counterweight, and automated rigging systems. * Developing bills of material/hardware schedules of drafted rigging systems to support the Operations team in ordering and staging rigging hardware.

Checks and replaces snub lines, break out lines, chains, hanging lines and counterweight assembly as required. * Performs housekeeping around rig, keeping rig floor clean and clear of tools after ...

Checks and replaces snub lines, break out lines, chains, hanging lines and counterweight assembly as required. * Performs housekeeping around rig, keeping rig floor clean and clear of tools after ...

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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
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.
Safety Manager Equipment Operator| Rochester, MN

Safety Manager Equipment Operator| Rochester, MN

HazTek Inc.

Rochester, MN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Crane Operator Safety Specialist
Join a company that’s dedicated to building a culture of safety and excellence.

HazTek is hiring a highly skilled and safety-driven Construction Crane Operator to support lifting operations on active construction sites. This role is critical to maintaining a safe work environment while executing precise and efficient crane operations. The ideal candidate demonstrates exceptional situational awareness, strong communication skills, and a proactive commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

  • Verify rigging configurations and ensure all loads are properly secured 
  • Maintain clear, constant communication with spotters, riggers, and signal persons
  • Establish and maintain a secure lifting zone. Monitor weather conditions, site activity, and environmental risks
  • Exercise stop-work authority when safety concerns or hazards are identified
  • Perform daily pre-operational inspections of crane components
  • Ensure wire rope is properly seated and all mechanical systems are functioning safely and efficiently
  • Report equipment deficiencies promptly and coordinate necessary maintenance or repairs
  • Review lift plans, blueprints, and load charts to determine appropriate crane configuration, counterweight requirements, and safe lifting capacity
  • Safely operate cranes to lift, move, and position materials with precision while strictly adhering to load limits and manufacturer specifications
  • Ensure proper boom setup, swing radius awareness, and safe load path planning
  • Identify and mitigate hazards such as overhead power lines, obstructions, and congested work areas
  • Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with OSHA and company safety standards
  • Adhere to all federal, state, and site-specific safety regulations and protocols
  • Participate in safety meetings, audits, and ongoing training initiatives

  • Minimum 5+ years of construction safety experience
  • Experience operating cranes on commercial or industrial construction projects
  • High level of situational awareness, attention to detail, and risk assessment ability
  • Proven ability to read and interpret load charts, lift plans, and crane capacity manuals
  • • NCCCO (or equivalent) Crane Operator Certification preferred
  • Excellent verbal and written skills
  • Embody HazTek's Core Values of Integrity, Compassion, Dependability, Leadership, Accountability


HazTek Safety Management is a full-service, objective safety partner, founded in 1997. The health, safety and well-being of employees and companies is our highest priority. We offer full-time employment, stability, competitive benefits, professional development, travel, diverse safety experiences, management support and the added benefit of working with a network of over 275 full-time HazTek safety professionals. 

At HazTek, We Stand Together for Safety

We are committed to building an environment of inclusion and acceptance which values diversity across all areas of the organization; an environment in which all employees can contribute to the success of the business and are valued for their skills, experience, and unique perspectives. 

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status.


$90,000 - $110,000
Travel and or Relocation will be considered