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Deck Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crane Operator

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$32.14 - $46.43/day

Physical dexterity and strength to operate deck machinery; work on equipment that is poorly ... CRANE OPERATOR I - $450 - $600/day LICENSES & REQUIREMENTS: * NCCCO License with LBC endorsements

Crane Operator

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$32.14 - $46.43/hr

Physical dexterity and strength to operate deck machinery; work on equipment that is poorly ... CRANE OPERATOR I - $450 - $600/day LICENSES & REQUIREMENTS: * NCCCO License with LBC endorsements

The Crane Operator is responsible for rigging and moving of equipment and materials and ensures all deck / equipment maintenance areas are kept clean and all tools are properly stored or racked in ...

Crane Operator

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$32.14 - $46.43/hr

Physical dexterity and strength to operate deck machinery; work on equipment that is poorly ... CRANE OPERATOR I - $450 - $600/day LICENSES & REQUIREMENTS: * NCCCO License with LBC endorsements

Crane Operator

Jessup, MD ยท On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Crane Operator (Tree Care Division) Location: Jessup, MD Pay: $28-$35/hour (based on experience ... Someone who doesn't mind the occasional "all hands on deck" moment when storms hit If you're the ...

GARNEY A Marine Crane Operator position is available at Garney. As a Marine Crane Operator, you ... Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of the deck and equipment, including cleaning deck/barge ...

GARNEY A Marine Crane Operator position is available at Garney. As a Marine Crane Operator, you ... Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of the deck and equipment, including cleaning deck/barge ...

Crane Operator

Jessup, MD ยท On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Crane Operator (Tree Care Division) Location: Jessup, MD Pay: $28-$35/hour (based on experience ... Someone who doesn't mind the occasional "all hands on deck" moment when storms hit If you're the ...

The Crane Operator is responsible for rigging and moving of equipment and materials and ensures all deck / equipment maintenance areas are kept clean and all tools are properly stored or racked in ...

Marine Crane Operator & Crew Lead Gage Marine is seeking an experienced Marine Crane Operator ... Previous experience leading crane crews, deck crews, or rigging teams * Ability to work safely ...

Crane Operator

Jessup, MD ยท On-site

$28 - $35/hr

... deck" moment when storms hit If you're the kind of operator who enjoys making difficult jobs look effortless-and wants to be part of a company that's building something real-this is your seat in the ...

Crane Operator

Jessup, MD ยท On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Crane Operator (Tree Care Division) Location: Jessup, MD Pay: $28-$35/hour (based on experience ... Someone who doesn't mind the occasional "all hands on deck" moment when storms hit If you're the ...

The Crane Operator is responsible for rigging and moving of equipment and materials and ensures all deck / equipment maintenance areas are kept clean and all tools are properly stored or racked in ...

A Marine Crane Operator may utilize various pile-driving equipment. This role requires teamwork ... Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of the deck and equipment, including cleaning deck/barge ...

A Marine Crane Operator may utilize various pile-driving equipment. This role requires teamwork ... Perform routine cleaning and maintenance of the deck and equipment, including cleaning deck/barge ...

Showing results 21-40

Deck Crane Operator information

See salary details

$14

$28

$40

How much do deck crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for deck crane operator in the United States is $28.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a deck crane operator?

Deck Crane Operators are skilled professionals responsible for operating cranes on ships, offshore platforms, or docks to lift, move, and position heavy loads such as cargo, equipment, or supplies. They ensure that all lifting operations are carried out safely, efficiently, and in compliance with safety regulations. Deck Crane Operators must have strong knowledge of crane controls, rigging techniques, and safety protocols. Their role is vital to the smooth operation of marine and offshore logistics, and they often work closely with deck crews and supervisors.

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

To thrive as a Deck Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of crane operations, load handling, and safety protocols, typically supported by relevant offshore or maritime certifications. Familiarity with hydraulic and electric crane systems, as well as routine maintenance procedures, is essential. Excellent hand-eye coordination, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and incident-free lifting operations in challenging maritime environments.

What are some common challenges faced by deck crane operators, and how can they be managed on the job?

Deck Crane Operators often work in dynamic environments where weather conditions, vessel movement, and limited visibility can pose challenges. To manage these, operators must maintain constant communication with deck crew and follow rigorous safety protocols. Regular equipment inspections and adherence to load limits are essential to prevent accidents. Developing strong situational awareness and participating in ongoing training can help operators handle unexpected situations effectively while ensuring safe and efficient operations.

What are popular job titles related to Deck Crane Operator jobs?

For Deck Crane Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Deck Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,350 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Crane Operator

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

Curtin Maritime, Corp
Water Transportationย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

$32.14 - $46.43/day

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position: Crane Operator/Leverman I, II, III

Location: Nationwide

Department: Marine Transportation

Reports to: Marine Transportation

Schedule: Full-time; Minimum 40 hours per week. Some positions rotational with 180 work days minimum per year. Will involve travel to different locations and extended stays outside of home port. Long hours, short notice travel, weekend duties are likely.


Efficiency. Innovation. Integrity. These are our 3 Pillars. At Curtin Maritime, these core values are the framework for safe performance and operational excellence; proof of these pillars is evident in our people and our fleet. For 25 years, Curtin Maritime has been an industry leader in quality maritime solutions. We are a dynamic Marine Construction and Marine Transportation company experiencing rapid growth. Our team provides customers with a complete suite of maritime solutions, allowing us the incredible opportunity to work on unique projects in some of the most amazing places on earth.

THIS ROLE:

As the Crane Operator I, II, III at Curtin Maritime, you will be responsible for operating various types of floating cranes and mechanical dredges, ensuring the safe and efficient handling, lifting, and movement of materials and equipment. This role involves adhering to safety protocols, coordinating with other crew members, maintaining equipment, and supervising crane operations.


WHO YOU ARE:


Mental Aptitudes


  • Attention to detail

  • Ability to handle stressful situations with focus.

  • Desire to learn, comprehend and progress.

  • Understanding the importance of and taking pride in and responsibility for mastering the small things before mastering the big ones.

  • Understand and respect the chain of command.

  • Continuously demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility and ownership by being proactive in all situations/tasks.

Physical Aptitudes


  • Must be able to lift 40 lbs. without restriction. Position involves lifting, pulling ad operating heavy equipment and objects.

  • Ability to bend, stoop, or squat, and climb high steps/ladders frequently.

  • Physical dexterity and strength to operate deck machinery; work on equipment that is poorly accessible or in confined work spaces.

  • Must be able to keep balance/equilibrium while performing duties at various heights.

  • Adequate hearing & vision ability.

  • Proper heat/cold tolerance, working in all weather conditions.

  • Comfortable working while exposed to grease, dirt, paint, water, etc.

  • Must be able to swim.

CRANE OPERATOR I - $450 - $600/day


LICENSES & REQUIREMENTS:


  • NCCCO License with LBC endorsements

  • TWIC Card

  • Application submitted for MMC (Ordinary Seaman)

  • Pass CG physical & drug test

  • Qualified Rigger

PREFERRED LICENSES & EXPERIENCE:


  • TLL endorsement

  • Passport

  • Excavator experience


RESPONSIBILITIES AND GOALS:


  • Operating cranes in accordance with safe operating procedures and ensuring compliance with company and regulatory standards.

  • Performing daily equipment inspections and maintenance checks.

  • Safely lifting and transporting materials and equipment to designated locations as directed by supervisors or signalers.

  • Communicating effectively with team members via hand signals or two-way radios.

  • Participate in training programs to enhance knowledge and skills.

  • Possess a strong understanding of load dynamics and safe lifting practices.

  • Proficient in reading load charts and lift plans.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL:


  • Experience operating crawler cranes or pedestal mounted crane barges or mechanical dredges.

  • Demonstrate significant experience as a crane rigger, showcasing proficiency in various rigging techniques and equipment.


CRANE OPERATOR II - $550 - $650/day


LICENSES & REQUIREMENTS:


  • All Those Listed in Crane Operator I

  • MMC (Ordinary Seaman)

  • CG Medical Certificate

RESPONSIBILITIES AND GOALS:


  • Training of Level I Crane Operators

  • Mastery of at least one vessel specific crane.

  • Demonstrate the ability to identify and address minor issues with crane components.


KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL:


  • Mastery of Crane Operator I

  • Experience operating cranes on barges or in marine environments

  • Must possess working knowledge of crane systems.


CRANE OPERATOR III - $650+/day


LICENSES & REQUIREMENTS:


  • All those listed in Crane Operator I and Crane Operator II

PREFERRED LICENSES & EXPERIENCE:


  • All those listed in Crane Operator I and Crane Operator II

RESPONSIBILITIES AND GOALS:


  • Training of Level I and II Crane Operators

  • Maintain effective communication with the Project Manager, crew members, and other stakeholders.

  • Coordinate lifting operations with other activities on the barge to ensure smooth workflow.

  • Assist in maintenance, repairs, and adjustments to crane components.


KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL:


  • Mastery of Crane Operator I and Crane Operator II

  • Mastery of clamshell and offshore crane operations.

  • Competent in hydraulic and mechanical friction cranes.

  • Develop and implement Critical Lift Plans, considering load characteristics, rigging configurations, and site conditions.

  • Must display leadership skills and be able to direct work on deck of the barge.

  • Must be able to use Vessel Management System to complete barge logs, and monthly crane inspection reports.

  • Must be able to perform preventative maintenance on crane systems.

Curtin Maritimeis an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.