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Entry Level Offshore Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Transocean Ltd.

Crane Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Offshore Marine Group Transocean is focused on being the employer of choice for the drilling ... Supervises the Assistant Crane Operator and Roustabouts Pre-Requisite/ Qualification: * High School ...

Transocean

Crane Operator

Houston, TX

Offshore Marine Group Transocean is focused on being the employer of choice for the drilling ... Supervises the Assistant Crane Operator and Roustabouts Pre-Requisite/ Qualification: * High School ...

EPIC PIPING, LLC

Overhead Crane Operator

Livingston, LA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

EPIC PIPING, LLC

Overhead Crane Operator

Livingston, LA

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

EPIC PIPING, LLC

Overhead Crane Operator

Livingston, LA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

EPIC PIPING, LLC

Overhead Crane Operator

Livingston, LA · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

EPIC PIPING, LLC

Overhead Crane Operator

Livingston, LA

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

EPIC PIPING, LLC

Overhead Crane Operator

Livingston, LA

$15 - $17.75/hr

Epic Piping has an exciting opportunity available for a Crane Operator to be an integral part of ... refining, offshore, and oil & gas industries. As an equal opportunity employer, Epic Piping is ...

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Entry Level Offshore Crane Operator information

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$14

$28

$40

How much do entry level offshore crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level offshore 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Offshore Crane Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Offshore Crane Operator, you need a basic understanding of mechanical operations, safety regulations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with offshore crane systems, rigging equipment, and certifications such as OPITO or API crane operator credentials are commonly required. Strong communication, situational awareness, and a commitment to teamwork help individuals excel in this role. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure safe, efficient lifting operations in challenging offshore environments.

What are the main responsibilities of an entry level offshore crane operator?

An entry level offshore crane operator is primarily responsible for assisting with the safe operation of cranes on offshore platforms, typically under the supervision of an experienced operator. Their duties include helping with lifting and moving heavy equipment and materials, conducting pre-use equipment checks, following safety protocols, and performing basic maintenance tasks. They also learn to interpret hand signals, communicate with team members, and adhere to strict offshore safety regulations. Over time, they gain experience needed to operate cranes independently and take on greater responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level offshore crane operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level offshore crane operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to the demanding offshore environment, learning to operate heavy equipment safely in variable weather conditions, and managing long work shifts. These challenges can be addressed through rigorous safety training, mentorship from experienced operators, and following strict operational protocols. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as crane operators work closely with deck crews, riggers, and supervisors to ensure smooth and safe lifting operations.

What is the difference between Entry Level Offshore Crane Operator vs Offshore Rigger?

AspectEntry Level Offshore Crane OperatorOffshore Rigger
CertificationsBasic crane operation licenses, safety trainingRigging and signaling certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentOperating cranes on offshore platforms or vesselsSetting up and securing loads, working alongside crane operators
Industry UsageCommonly employed in offshore oil and gas, shippingUsed in offshore construction, maintenance, and logistics

While both roles work in offshore environments and require safety training, the Entry Level Offshore Crane Operator primarily focuses on operating cranes, whereas the Offshore Rigger handles load setup and rigging tasks. Both roles are essential in offshore operations and often work together to ensure safe and efficient lifting processes.

Infographic showing various Entry Level Offshore Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 83% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,350 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Crane Operator

Transocean Ltd.

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Offshore Marine Group
Transocean is focused on being the employer of choice for the drilling industry.
We are challenging ourselves every day to push the performance of the company through technological advances and passion for our work.
Job Summary
- Operate the rig's crane in a safe and efficient manner and in accordance to Company Policies and Procedures
- Regularly perform Preventative Maintenance on cranes and components
Job Description
REPORTING:
Reports to Sr Mate/Chief Mate/Deckpusher
SUPERVISION:
Supervises the Assistant Crane Operator and Roustabouts
Pre-Requisite/ Qualification:
  • High School Diploma (U.S.)/ Proof of Completion of Formal Education or Relevant Craft Certificate (where applicable)
  • All licenses/certifications required for the region of operation
  • Successful Military Discharge - Preferred for U.S.
  • Graduate of Trade School or University where knowledge and training acquired are applicable to job requirements - Preferred.
  • Valid medical examination and vaccination certificates
  • Norway Specific: Must hold qualifications in accordance with relevant authority requirements and the requirements of the Havtil ref. Activities Regulations.
    Certification according to NORSOK R003 as amended.

General Requirements:
  • Promotes a Safe and Respectful Work Environment: Proactively promotes and maintains a healthy respect for open and transparent dialogue between all levels of personnel.
  • Demonstrates care for the safety and well-being of all personnel, at all times.
  • Invests in each person to provide equal opportunity for development and advancement of those qualified, to fulfill their career objectives.
  • Respects the dignity of all personnel and recognizes their merit.
  • Attend and participate in all required Safety and Operational meetings.
  • Participate fully in the annual performance appraisal process, competency assessments based on performance against Operational Discipline requirements.
  • Complete company training requirements for the Crane Operator job level as per the training matrix, including in local/regulatory requirements.
  • If applicable, the duties and responsibilities in the safety case for this position must be observed.
  • Full participation in emergency drills and respond to emergency situations as per assigned duties on the station bill.
  • Norway Specific: Responsible to follow up on the working environment within the rig department.

Operational Discipline Requirements:
  • Disciplined application and participation in the company risk management system.
  • This is inclusive of:
  • Understanding and perform the roles and responsibilities as assigned at the pre-job meeting.
  • Understanding the hazards associated with the task.
  • Understanding and effectively implementing the control measures required to mitigate identified hazards.
  • Execute all tasks and task steps in a disciplined manner, following the sequence detailed in the relevant procedures.
  • Recognize at risk behavior or conditions during tasks and call 'Time out for Safety' when unsure, or when the job does not go as planned.
  • Participate in After Action Reviews to feedback lessons learned from performing the task.

HSE Requirements:
  • Demonstrate commitment and leadership in the protection of personnel, the environment, and assets.
  • Coach personnel in the understanding of applicable Company OI & HSE requirements.
  • Ensure work is executed in accordance with Company OI & HSE requirements.
  • Call a Time Out when a real or perceived at risk behavior or unsafe condition is observed.
  • Coach personnel to use WorkSight ENGAGE during the execution of planned work.
  • Use WorkSight COACH during the execution of planned work and daily operations to reinforce Company requirements.
  • Report all incidents, potential hazards, or abnormal situations. Ensure reported situations are acknowledged properly.
  • Ensure the Control of Work process is complied with when planning and managing the execution of work.
  • Ensure major accident barriers / controls are maintained.
  • Ensure safe and organized work areas are maintained.
  • Understand your role in an emergency, as designated in the Emergency Response Plan and Station Bill.
  • Lead or participate in all emergency drills and exercises, as required.
  • Ensure change is properly controlled and managed.

DUTIES:
The underlying expectation is that all duties are carried out in compliance with the Company Operational Discipline expectations and HSE requirements.
When considering assignment of duties for the Crane Operator, the Supervisor and the Crane Operator will apply the rules of task planning to determine if the assigned role is appropriate. This means confirming that the individuals involved have the knowledge, skills, and experience to carry out the task, and the task plan complies with policy before they are authorized to proceed.
General Duties:
Operations/Maintenance:
  • Provide Roustabouts and/or Rovers with relevant instructions for current and forthcoming operations.
  • Partake in Toolbox Talks prior to all deck operations.
  • Inspect all lifting equipment prior to use, i.e. slings, straps, shackles, wire ropes, etc.
  • Ensure lifted loads are clear of obstructions, balanced, and properly secured with tag lines.
  • Operate the crane as required for running casing/riser, picking up or laying down tubular, placement of equipment and supplies, etc.
  • Operate the crane as required for transferring personnel and materials to and from supply boats.
  • Notify the supervisor prior to lifting or transferring heavy equipment or materials that may affect the rig's stability.
  • Assist during rig moves and anchor running and retrieving operations as directed.
  • Assist with the replacement and installation of mooring lines and bulk fill lines.
  • Perform safety inspection on gauges, indicators, limit switches, cables, electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems in cranes.
  • Carry out Preventive Maintenance tasks on the cranes and components equipment. Maintain log of all maintenance records.
  • Ensure decks and work area are organized for efficient and safe operation.
  • Assist in keeping a running inventory of slings and lifting equipment in use. Inform supervisor of shortages or damaged slings.
  • Assist the Subsea department in the running and retrieval of BOPs and auxiliary equipment.
  • Assist third party service personnel in picking up and moving equipment for special operations.
  • Maintain good communication with the Roustabouts, Deck Pusher and Barge Supervisor.
  • Assist to maintain accurate records of all equipment loaded onto and off the rig.

Personnel:
  • Promote and maintain good working relationships with other departments, third-party personnel and Customer representatives.
  • Mentor, coach, develop and train crew members to ensure they are competent to work at their next job level.
  • Provide leadership and motivation to the marine crews. Apply continuous improvement process.
  • Assist in training to ensure that all personnel are competent to perform their allocated jobs.
  • Participate fully in the performance appraisal process.
  • Apply appropriate accountability regarding recognition; recommend promotion or disciplinary action up to and including discharge.

If you want to push yourself to great achievement, let Transocean develop your career.

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