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Crane Operator Jobs in Beloit, WI (NOW HIRING)

Marine Crane Operator & Crew Lead Gage Marine is seeking an experienced Marine Crane Operator & Crew Lead to safely operate articulating boom cranes and lead pier crews during marine construction and ...

Requirements: - High school diploma or equivalent. - Valid crane operator certification. - Minimum of 2 years of experience operating a crane. - Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety ...

Overhead Crane Operator - Days

Machesney Park, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Requirements: - High school diploma or equivalent. - Valid crane operator certification. - Minimum of 2 years of experience operating a crane. - Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety ...

Overhead Crane Operator - Days

Machesney Park, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Requirements Requirements: - High school diploma or equivalent. - Valid crane operator certification. - Minimum of 2 years of experience operating a crane. - Ability to read and interpret documents ...

Overhead Crane Operator - Days

Machesney Park, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Requirements Requirements: - High school diploma or equivalent. - Valid crane operator certification. - Minimum of 2 years of experience operating a crane. - Ability to read and interpret documents ...

Machine Operator

South Beloit, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

This operator will be the main crane operator for the steel plant liner. He/She will press rings of different sizes and thicknesses. The operator is to follow the schedule which is produced by his ...

Laborer

South Beloit, IL · On-site

$17.31 - $21.51/hr

Steel Welder or Crane Operator $22.13 · Maintenance or Setup Welder $22.39 · Ring Welder, Locomotive Crane or Electrician $24.95 · Working Foreman $25.27. Every rate is set by contract and posted.

Welder

South Beloit, IL · On-site

$22.13 - $23.13/hr

Steel Welder or Crane Operator $22.13 · Maintenance or Setup Welder $22.39 · Ring Welder, Locomotive Crane or Electrician $24.95 · Working Foreman $25.27. Every rate is set by contract and posted.

Welder

South Beloit, IL · On-site

$22.13 - $23.13/hr

Steel Welder or Crane Operator $22.13 · Maintenance or Setup Welder $22.39 · Ring Welder, Locomotive Crane or Electrician $24.95 · Working Foreman $25.27. Every rate is set by contract and posted.

Laborer

South Beloit, IL · On-site

$17.31 - $21.51/hr

Steel Welder or Crane Operator $22.13 · Maintenance or Setup Welder $22.39 · Ring Welder, Locomotive Crane or Electrician $24.95 · Working Foreman $25.27. Every rate is set by contract and posted.

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Crane Operator information

See Beloit, WI salary details

$14

$27

$39

How much do crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane operator in Beloit, WI is $27.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $32.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a crane operator do?

A Crane Operator is a professional heavy machine operator, specializing in cranes. Cranes are a unique kind of heavy equipment that uses pulley systems to move around, raise, and lower large items, such as shipping containers and steel beams. A Crane Operator is in charge of moving these things where they need to go, safely and efficiently. The also log their work, discuss and plan with their team, and perform basic maintenance on their machine.

What does a crane operator do?

A crane operator is responsible for operating cranes to lift, move, and position heavy materials on construction sites, in warehouses, or at industrial facilities. They must carefully control the crane’s movements using levers, pedals, or computerized controls while following strict safety protocols. Crane operators also inspect their equipment, ensure loads are balanced, and communicate with ground crews to complete tasks efficiently and safely.

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

To thrive as a Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, load calculations, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma and crane operator certification (such as NCCCO). Familiarity with rigging equipment, load charts, and control systems is essential, along with the ability to interpret blueprints and site plans. Strong attention to detail, communication, and situational awareness are vital soft skills for managing complex lifts and working with ground crews. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and precise lifting operations on construction or industrial sites.

What are some common challenges crane operators face on the job, and how are they addressed?

Crane Operators often encounter challenges such as working in variable weather conditions, maintaining clear communication with ground crews, and ensuring safety in busy construction environments. To address these, operators rely on standardized hand signals, two-way radios, and regular safety briefings. Additionally, ongoing training and certification help operators stay updated on the latest safety protocols and equipment technology, ensuring efficient and secure operations.

What is the difference between Crane Operator vs Rigger?

AspectCrane OperatorRigger
CertificationsCrane operator license, OSHA certificationRigger certification, OSHA certification
Work EnvironmentOperate cranes on construction sites, industrial settingsSet up and secure loads, assist crane operation
Industry UsageConstruction, shipping, manufacturingConstruction, shipping, industrial

Crane operators and riggers often work together on construction sites. While crane operators focus on operating the crane, riggers handle load setup and safety. Both roles require OSHA certifications and are essential for safe lifting operations in similar environments.

Are crane operators well paid?

Crane operators typically earn competitive wages that vary by experience, location, and industry. According to industry data, the median annual salary for crane operators is around $60,000, with experienced operators earning over $80,000. Certifications and working in specialized environments can also influence pay rates.

How hard is it to get a crane operator license?

Obtaining a crane operator license typically requires completing specialized training, gaining hands-on experience, and passing written and practical exams. Licensing requirements vary by region but generally involve demonstrating knowledge of safety protocols, equipment operation, and industry standards.

How much do crane operators make?

Crane operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000, with wages varying based on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated. Skilled operators with certifications and experience can earn higher wages, especially in construction, manufacturing, or shipping environments. Overtime and shift differentials may also increase total earnings.

What cities near Beloit, WI are hiring for Crane Operator jobs?

Cities near Beloit, WI with the most Crane Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Crane Operator job openings in Beloit, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,347 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Marine Crane Operator

Gage Marine Corporation

Williams Bay, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Gage Marine rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

Marine Crane Operator & Crew Lead


Gage Marine is seeking an experienced Marine Crane Operator & Crew Lead to safely operate articulating boom cranes and lead pier crews during marine construction and offseason projects. This role requires strong leadership, sound judgment, and a consistent commitment to safe operating practices.

Responsibilities

  • Operate articulating boom cranes aboard barges and lead marine work sites
  • Lead and coordinate crew members, riggers, and other assigned personnel
  • Conduct pre-use crane, rigging, and safety inspections; identify and report defects or unsafe conditions
  • Verify load weights, rigging configurations, crane capacity, weather conditions, and vessel stability before lifts
  • Participate in maintenance talks, job site analyses, safety meetings, and incident reporting
  • Use general construction skills to install and remove seasonal piers, lifts and other recreation lake items

What We Offer

  • Competitive pay based on experience and certifications
  • Bonus opportunities
  • Overtime and rotational opportunities, where applicable
  • Excellent benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life, 401(k), paid vacation/personal time
  • Employee discounts on products and services 
  • Fun, family-oriented culture and outdoor recreation perks
  • Paid training and certification support

Requirements

 Required Qualifications

  • Current certification to operate an articulating boom crane
  • Demonstrated experience operating cranes in a marine, offshore, port, barge, or vessel environment
  • Previous experience leading crane crews, deck crews, or rigging teams
  • Ability to work safely around moving equipment, suspended loads, changing weather, and marine conditions
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
  • Ability to pass required pre-employment screening, including drug and alcohol testing, background check, and physical/fit-for-duty requirements
  • Ability to work extended shifts, overtime, weekends, and rotational schedules when required
  • Ability to consistently lift 50-75 lbs. and work outdoors in variable weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications

  • NCCCO or equivalent crane operator certification, where applicable
  • Experience with hydraulic knuckle-boom, telescopic, pedestal-mounted, or vessel-mounted cranes
  • Familiarity with vessel stability, deck loading, and marine cargo operations
  • Previous knowledge of boat lifts and pier construction around Lake Geneva

What Gage Marine employees say

Pay

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