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Crane Operators Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

NASSCO

Crane Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

We are currently looking for 2 Crane Operators. The hours are 0600-1445 Mon - Fri. General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship ...

NASSCO

Crane Operator

Chesapeake, VA

We are currently looking for 2 Crane Operators. The hours are 0600-1445 Mon - Fri. General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship ...

NASSCO

Crane Operator

Norfolk, VA

We are currently looking for 2 Crane Operators. The hours are 0600-1445 Mon - Fri. General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship ...

NASSCO

Crane Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

We are currently looking for 2 Crane Operators. The hours are 0600-1445 Mon - Fri. General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship ...

NASSCO

Crane Operator

Hampton, VA

We are currently looking for 2 Crane Operators. The hours are 0600-1445 Mon - Fri. General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship ...

NASSCO

Crane Operator

Norfolk, VA

We are currently looking for 2 Crane Operators. The hours are 0600-1445 Mon - Fri. General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship ...

Crofton

Crane Operator

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

Crane Operator Job Summary: Crofton offers industry leading solutions above and below the waterline, combining comprehensive expertise in all facets of commercial diving, marine construction, and ...

Crofton

Crane Operator

Portsmouth, VA

Crane Operator Crofton offers industry leading solutions above and below the waterline, combining comprehensive expertise in all facets of commercial diving, marine construction, and crane rental ...

The Walsh Group

Crane Operator

Yorktown, VA

... operators are also expected to assist in other duties around the jobsite as needed. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: * Operates a Crane to complete tasks such as driving pylons ...

NASSCO

We are currently looking for 2 Crane Operators. The hours are 0600-1445 Mon - Fri. General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship ...

MEB

Crane Operator

Virginia Beach, VA

Ncco Certified Crane Operator Our team is looking for an NCCCO certified crane operator to support various construction projects throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. The ideal candidate will be ...

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Crane Operators information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$27

$39

How much do crane operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for crane operators in Virginia is $27.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.44 and $32.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are crane operators?

Crane operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating cranes and other heavy lifting equipment to move, lift, and position materials at construction sites, shipping yards, factories, and other industrial settings. They must have a strong understanding of safety protocols, equipment mechanics, and hand or radio signals used for communication. Training and certification are usually required, as crane operation involves significant responsibility and risk management. Crane operators play a crucial role in ensuring that heavy loads are lifted and placed safely and efficiently according to project requirements.

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

Crane operators often encounter challenges such as working in tight or crowded sites, dealing with changing weather conditions, and ensuring precise communication with ground crews. These can be addressed by maintaining strong situational awareness, adhering strictly to safety protocols, and using clear hand signals or radios to coordinate with team members. Regular equipment inspections and ongoing training also help operators manage risks and adapt to new technologies or site-specific requirements.

What is the difference between Crane Operators vs Tower Crane Operators?

AspectCrane OperatorsTower Crane Operators
CertificationsCrane operator certification, OSHA safety trainingCrane operator certification, tower crane-specific training
Work EnvironmentOperate various mobile and stationary cranes on construction sitesOperate tower cranes primarily on high-rise construction sites
Industry UsageConstruction, shipping yards, industrial facilitiesHigh-rise building construction, large-scale infrastructure projects

Crane Operators and Tower Crane Operators both require similar certifications and work in construction environments. However, Tower Crane Operators specialize in operating tower cranes used for tall building projects, whereas Crane Operators may work with a variety of crane types across different settings.

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 mechanical aptitude, spatial awareness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized crane operator certification. Familiarity with crane-specific controls, load charts, and safety systems, as well as certification from organizations like NCCCO, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for safely coordinating with team members and handling complex lifts. These skills and qualifications ensure safe operation, prevent accidents, and facilitate efficient workflow on construction or industrial sites.

What's the highest paying crane operator job?

The highest paying crane operator jobs are typically in specialized industries such as oil and gas, power plant construction, or heavy industrial projects, often requiring advanced certifications and experience. These roles may also involve working in remote or hazardous environments, which can increase compensation significantly compared to standard construction crane operation.

How much do the best crane operators make?

The highest-paid crane operators can earn over $80,000 annually, especially those with extensive experience, specialized certifications, and working in high-demand environments. Top earners often operate large, complex cranes and work overtime or in remote locations, which can increase their income.

How much do the highest paid crane operators make?

The highest paid crane operators can earn over $80,000 to $100,000 annually, especially those with extensive experience, specialized certifications, and the ability to operate complex equipment. Factors such as location, industry, and overtime also influence their earnings.

Are crane operators well paid?

Crane operators typically earn competitive wages that vary by location, experience, and industry. They often receive benefits and may need certifications such as OSHA or NCCCO to qualify for higher-paying positions. Overall, crane operation is considered a well-paying skilled trade.
What are popular job titles related to Crane Operators jobs in Virginia? For Crane Operators jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Virginia are hiring for Crane Operators jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Crane Operators job openings:
Crane Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Crane Operators job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% As Needed, and 58% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,850 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Crane Operator

NASSCO

Virginia Beach, VA

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

We have an exciting opportunity in our Rigging department. This position specifically is located in Norfolk, Virginia. We are currently looking for 2 Crane Operators. The hours are 0600-1445 Mon - Fri.
General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship construction, our capabilities include advanced ship repair, conversion, and maintenance for both commercial and national defense assets.
We encourage you to learn more about our open positions and how you can become part of the important and exciting work we do here at NASSCO.Please review the job description below and apply if you are interested. Come join our team!
Security Clearance: No Clearance
PURPOSE AND FUNCTIONS
The Crane Operators operate a variety of cranes; conventional (tired and tracked), hydraulic, electric, tower and gantry to lift and move materials, machinery and other objects. Responsible for accomplishing work in accordance with work specifications, safely, with the highest quality and in a professional manner.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
  • Typically has a High School diploma/GED or equivalent related experience.
  • Requires knowledge of mechanical and crane operation principles.
  • Requires knowledge of OSHA crane standards.
  • Requires basic knowledge and comprehension of weights and conversions, i.e.: pounds, kilograms, tons, etc.
  • Requires knowledge of and comprehension of universal hand-signals for rigging and crane operations required.
  • Requires ability to clearly communicate via hand held radio
  • Requires ability to understand ship nomenclature; decks, port, starboard, forward, aft, frame number, compartment location, etc.
  • Requires ability to coordinate hand, foot and eye movement.
  • Requires ability to work at heights and in confined spaces.
  • Requires ability to work any shift and overtime.
  • Requires ability to comprehend written and verbal instructions including safety instructions, regulations and warnings.
  • Rigging experience preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds of weight
  • Repetitive or prolonged sitting, climbing, balancing, and lifting. Lifting body weight, sitting, reaching, handling, pushing/pulling, standing, walking, leaning and seeing (to maintain visual contact with load), eye/hand/foot coordination. Hearing warning signals, reading and comprehending safety instructions and planning sequence. Works in all areas of the shipyard and on board ships. Hearing warning signals and reading and comprehending safety instructions. Must be able to maintain general safety awareness and avoid hazards commonly present in employee's work area.

WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
Reports to the Shop Foreman / General Foreman. This position has no direct reports.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Operates cranes.
  • Set up machinery and equipment, including boom lengths and crib outriggers.
  • Rig machinery and equipment in and out of ships
  • Log data relating to lifts
  • Read load charts and understand different types of loads and landing areas.
  • Inspects cranes
  • Performs minor crane maintenance
  • Trains and mentors others in essential rigging job functions and safe crane operations
  • Housekeeping
  • May be required to attend safety, quality and/or process improvement meetings
  • Other duties as assigned

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Basic hand and power tools, rigging tools, lubricating greases, oil, and cleaning solvents. Personal protective equipment required; hard hat, gloves, safety shoes and safety glasses.
  • Regular reliable onsite attendance is an essential function of this job.
  • Must be able to access all Navy installations and other shipyards.
  • Must be able to work aboard vessels, climb ladders, work in tanks and confined spaces, and work at heights of up to 120' on piers or barges.
  • Must be able to work evening and weekend hours.
  • May include travel, including international travel up to 30%.
  • Exposure to wind, rain, ambient temperatures such as extreme heat and cold, wet and humid conditions, dust and toxic/caustic chemicals.

General Dynamics NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.
To learn more about applicant rights under federal law, click here:
"Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal" Poster | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal
If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request an accommodation, please contact our Human Resources Department.
Call (757) 543-6801. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications. NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans Employer

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