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Crane Operator Helper Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

They assist in loading and/or securing materials on trucks daily and help unload materials by using crane, conveyor, piggybacks and/or by hand. Gulfeagle drivers are the face of our Company on the ...

They assist in loading and/or securing materials on trucks daily and help unload materials by using crane, conveyor, piggybacks and/or by hand. Gulfeagle drivers are the face of our Company on the ...

Melt Shop Helper AZ1

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Fill in as Scrap Crane Operator and Second Helper as needed * Replenish Melt Shop consumables ... Ability to operate mobile equipment * Effectively communicate with others about possible production ...

Melt Shop Helper AZ1

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Fill in as Scrap Crane Operator and Second Helper as needed * Replenish Melt Shop consumables * Ability to operate mobile equipment * Effectively communicate with others about possible production ...

Melt Shop Helper AZ2

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running ... Fill in as Scrap Crane Operator and Second Helper as needed * Effectively communicate with others ...

Melt Shop Helper AZ2

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running ... Fill in as Scrap Crane Operator and Second Helper as needed * Effectively communicate with others ...

About Crane: Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical systems and components to the ... You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with prime OEMs and help us develop state-of-the art solutions ...

About Crane: Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical systems and components to the ... You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with prime OEMs and help us develop state-of-the art solutions ...

About Crane: Crane Aerospace & Electronics supplies critical systems and components to the ... You'll work shoulder-to-shoulder with prime OEMs and help us develop state-of-the art solutions ...

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Crane Operator Helper information

What is a crane operator helper?

Crane operator helpers assist crane operators with the safe and efficient operation of cranes on construction sites, docks, or industrial facilities. Their duties often include preparing materials, signaling to operators, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and maintaining equipment. They help set up and dismantle crane parts, secure loads, and keep the work area safe and organized. This support role is essential to ensure smooth crane operations and to reduce the risk of accidents. Crane operator helpers may also receive on-the-job training to advance to full crane operator positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a crane operator helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Crane Operator Helper, you need a basic understanding of construction site safety, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, rigging equipment, and sometimes OSHA safety certifications is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are essential soft skills for supporting crane operators and ensuring safe operations. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining workplace safety, preventing accidents, and supporting efficient lifting and material handling tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by crane operator helpers, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Crane Operator Helpers often face challenges such as working in noisy, high-traffic construction environments and needing to communicate clearly with crane operators and other crew members. Staying alert and adhering to strict safety protocols are essential, as the role involves assisting with rigging, signaling, and monitoring loads. Effective communication—often using standardized hand signals—and teamwork help minimize risks and ensure smooth operations. Regular safety training and staying physically fit also contribute to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Crane Operator Helper vs Crane Operator?

AspectCrane Operator HelperCrane Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic crane operation knowledgeOSHA certification, specialized crane operation licenses
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial settingsConstruction sites, industrial facilities, ports
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with setup, guiding loads, basic maintenanceOperating cranes, load handling, safety oversight

The main difference is that a Crane Operator Helper assists experienced crane operators with setup and load guidance, while a Crane Operator is responsible for the actual operation of the crane. Helpers typically require basic safety training, whereas operators need specialized certifications and extensive experience. Both roles are essential in construction and industrial environments, but the operator has more technical responsibilities and authority.

How much are crane operator helpers paid?

Crane operator helpers typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the work. They often work under the supervision of licensed crane operators and may need OSHA certification or training in crane safety and operation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Crane Operator jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Crane Operator jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Crane Operator Helper jobs in Arizona?

For Crane Operator Helper jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Crane Operator Helper jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Crane Operator Helper jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Crane Operator Helper jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Crane Operator Helper job openings:

Infographic showing various Crane Operator Helper job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Heavy Crane Operator (Industrial)

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Central Arizona Project
Utilities • 201 - 500 employees

$46.18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

About the Pay

Note:  The starting pay of $46.87 does not reflect the full range which currently goes up to $51.31 per hour. The compensation typically increases quickly within the first two years of successful performance and proven mastery of skills.

About Central Arizona Project

Central Arizona Project (CAP) is a 336-mile system that supplies Colorado River water to central and southern Arizona. More than 6 million people rely on this supply. CAP employs nearly 500 people who enjoy a team-oriented and safety-focused work culture. The close community of a small company is driven to help fulfill our extremely valuable mission.


Compensation & Benefits Package includes:

  • Competitive Salaries
  • Arizona State Retirement System - Pension
  • 401(k)
  • Medical, Dental and Vision
  • Life insurance, LTD, Short-term disability
  • 4-10 (Mon-Thur) work schedule
  • Paid training & tuition reimbursement
  • 9 paid holidays
  • Paid vacation & sick time
  • Wellness programs
  • No benefits waiting period
  • Relocation benefits
  • Significant training and development opportunities
  • Public Student Loan Forgiveness eligible employer
  • 12 weeks Parental Leave


About the Responsibilities

The Crane Operator functions as a resource to the entire organization and provides top quality, efficient, and safe service to the customers of Centralized Maintenance. The Crane Operator operates all hoisting equipment including conventional lattice type cranes, mobile hydraulic (telescopic, rough terrain) cranes, crawler cranes, boom trucks and Pumping Plant overhead cranes (cab and pendant) in support of the operation and maintenance of the Central Arizona Project (CAP).  Provides support to other work groups, including but not limited to structure construction/maintenance, hoisting operations (pump/transformer repair and overhaul), and sediment removal (clamshell operation), and transportation (heavy equipment, stop logs, bulkhead gates, etc...).

Some of the duties include:

  • Operates all CAP hoisting equipment in support of operation and maintenance of CAP structures, facilities and rights-of-ways. Safely performs specialized activities such as out-of-ordinary rigging and setting up cranes under potentially hazardous conditions such as uneven or soft terrain, around overhead power lines and around structures.  
    Safely operates crane to hoist and manipulate loads at or near capacity. Observe load hookup to determine safety of load.  Proficiently manipulate or depress crane controls such as pedals, levers, and buttons to regulate speed and direction of crane and hoist movement.
  • Services and maintains adjustments on hoisting equipment to ensure proper positioning and working order of equipment. Assists other Departments with the installation and or removal of equipment and materials to complete a project, as approved by direct supervisor or higher-level management. Transports heavy equipment such as man lifts, forklifts, piping, track hoe, pumps, etc., utilizing a truck and trailer.
  • Effectively utilizes Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and other computer programs/software applications for maintenance tasks and to document equipment condition, recording maintenance logs, lift plans, and repairs on hoisting equipment.  ·       
  • Performs a wide variety of manual labor and tasks associated with the operation, maintenance and general housekeeping of CAP Pump Plants, Check Structures, Turnouts and various Aqueduct facilities during times excluding Equipment Operation. Assists journeyman-level tradesman and performs related duties as assigned.

*Travels to various locations along CAP for multiple days in a row, staying overnight for up to 3 nights. Travel can be as much as 70% of the position. 


Why is THIS Job Awesome?
One of the best parts of being on CAP's traveling crew is the opportunity to work in different parts of Arizona, build relationships with plant personnel, and maybe even discover a new favorite spot for a weekend getaway. Along with excellent benefits and membership in the Arizona State Retirement System, you'll find real purpose in your work as part of CAP's dedicated team helping reliably manage and deliver Colorado River water to Maricopa, Pinal, and Pima counties.


About the Qualifications

The successful candidate will have a High school diploma or GED equivalent, have completed a federally registered operating Engineer and Crane Apprenticeship, plus 3 years of experience with hoisting equipment (conventional lattice type cranes, mobile hydraulic telescopic, rough terrain cranes, crawler cranes, boom trucks, and overhead cranes). Or, have a High school diploma or GED equivalent plus 7 years of experience. Two (2) years of experience in heavy haul equipment transporting (mechanical type gooseneck trailers, over dimensional equipment, and a working knowledge of curfew requirements. Must have experience in crane preventative maintenance and inspection procedures; knowledge of servicing and maintaining hoisting equipment (clutch adjustments, fueling, servicing, etc.); demonstrated proficiency in reading and interpreting manuals, specifications and drawings; use shop mathematics to make calculations and the ability to read lift plans and load charts.  Ability to operate mobile/overhead cranes that meet Critical Lift criteria, including development of critical lift plans and rigging associated with work of this nature.  Strong understanding of crane functions and limitations, assembly, and disassembly procedures.


Must hold a commercial drivers’ license, class A, and maintain a good driving record. Must possess and be able to maintain a National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) certification.


This is a safety-sensitive position and requires physical testing.


If you're an experienced Heavy Crane Operator who takes pride in safety, teamwork and doing the job right, bring your skills to a career that rewards you for the long haul. Enjoy outstanding benefits, retirement security including a pension and 401(k), and the stability of a respected organization - all while doing challenging, meaningful work. We encourage you to apply today.

Company Description

Central Arizona Project (CAP) is a 336-mile system that supplies Colorado River water to central and southern Arizona. More than 6 million people rely on this supply.