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Crane Operator Helper Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Railcar Repair Technician 1

Roseburg, OR · On-site

$23.50 - $28.50/hr

... crane, backhoe, skid loader, hoist, or hydraulic boom * Meet the requirements of AWS D15.1 for ... Must be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Railcar Repair Technician 1

Eugene, OR · On-site

$23.50 - $28.50/hr

... crane, backhoe, skid loader, hoist, or hydraulic boom * Meet the requirements of AWS D15.1 for ... Must be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Showing results 41-43

Crane Operator Helper information

See Oregon salary details

$12

$19

$23

How much do crane operator helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane operator helper in Oregon is $19.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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

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

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

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

$23.50 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Summary Description

Guardian Rail is proud to operate one of the country’s leading freight rail services and transportation companies with a large network of freight and tank car repair facilities, a nationwide network of running repair agents, and a rail services division that operates short line railroads and contract switching and transloading sites.

We currently have Repair Technician positions available in the Eugene area .  Incumbents will use mechanical skills to safely inspect and repair railcars to ensure mechanical and operational integrity per customer and industry specifications.  We seek candidates with rail industry or other heavy industrial experience, including welding or mechanical assembly.

We offer a sign on/retention bonus of $1,500, payable over the first 12 months of employment and a competitive pay scale based on relevant skills and experience. 

Responsible for the repair of various types of railcars and/or tank cars.  Incumbents will use mechanical skills to safely inspect and repair railcars to industry and customer specifications.  Candidates must have a safety and quality mindset and enjoy hands-on work in year-round outdoor conditions. 

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Perform railcar repairs in compliance with FRA and AAR interchange rules
  • Conduct pre and post inspection of all assigned railcars
  • Comply fully with all safety protocols including in house and OSHA rules, regulations and procedures
  • Comply fully with the Company's quality program by conforming to in-house processes and required AAR and FRA rules and regulations
  • Keep work area in a clean and orderly manner to comply with Guardian Rail, OSHA, and environmental rules and regulations
  • Follow written and verbal directions
  • Work effectively in a team environment
  • Possess a thorough understanding of railcar, components, and/or shop work order
  • Understand inventory control
  • Assist in disassembly of damaged railcars
  • Perform repairs such as, but not limited to, basic mechanics, grinding, and touch-up painting and decaling on various types of railcars or tank cars as required
  • Set up and operate various hand and power tools such as, but not limited to, air arc, plasma cutting, Huck and welding machines and processes, and oxyfuel operation in heating and cutting processes
  • Perform interior railcar cleaning
  • Complete documented training to set up and operate or drive equipment such as, but not limited to: forklift, man-lift, crane, backhoe, skid loader, hoist, or hydraulic boom
  • Meet the requirements of AWS D15.1 for freight cars utilizing GMAW (Hardwire), FCAW (Flux Core), and/or SMAW (Stick) welding on carbon steel as well as our internal welding technology training and examination

#Indeed123

Qualifications

  • High-school diploma or general education degree (GED) required
  • Prior experience as a Carman or Railcar Repair Technician highly desirable
  • Must be able to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals and blueprints
  • Must possess basic mechanical knowledge and experience with hand & power tools, including heavier air and electric powered tools and cutting torches
  • Must enjoy outdoor, physical, hands on work with frequent standing, climbing, stooping, kneeling, pushing, pulling and lifting required
  • Certified E7018 welder preferred
  • Must be able to write routine reports and correspondence and speak and communicate effectively
  • Must possess basic math skills and work and understand simple mathematical concepts
  • Must possess reasoning ability to solve practical problems
  • Must be able to fully pass the fitness-for-duty examination, pre-employment physical, and pre-employment and random drug and alcohol screenings

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Our physical environment requires the employee to work both inside and outside in heat/cold, wet/humid, dry/arid, and dusty conditions. The environment requires working in close proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, in high and low precarious places, as well as in confined spaces.

The work type is best described as heavy, hands-on mechanical work. Work is very physical, and without proper work planning can result in out-of-position pushing, pulling, and lifting. Proper body mechanics, positioning, and lifting techniques can be very important. Employees are urged to seek help when needed with heavier tasks and to use lifting equipment when and where necessary. The positioning of the work being performed can change very frequently.

Various heavier air and electric-powered tools such as car jacks, impact wrenches, and grinders are used daily. Work also requires frequent use of hand wrenches, hammers, chisels, socket wrenches, and ladders. Cutting torches are also used with welding equipment upon qualification of the employee.

  • Climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, talking, hearing, smelling, and visual acuity, with color and depth perception
  • Ability to work in a confined space
  • Required to use personal protective equipment as environmental conditions dictate