Friction Crane Operators Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Crane Operator Needed - Per Diem

Vero Beach, FL · On-site

$42 - $45/hr

Hydraulic Friction Crane Operator

Houma, LA

The Crane Operator is responsible for operating mobile or stationary cranes to lift, move, position, or place materials and equipment at construction sites. This role requires a strong focus on ...

Hydraulic Friction Crane Operator

Houma, LA

Crane Operator

$23/hr

The requirements for the position are as follows: a Must have a minimum of 2 (two) years of experience operating: Manitowoc 200 Ton Friction Crane a Must have crane certification, reliable ...

Crane Operator

$23/hr

Be Seen First

Crane Operator Needed - Per Diem

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$42 - $45/hr

Quick apply

Be Seen First

Crane Operator Needed - Per Diem

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$42 - $45/hr

Hydraulic Friction Crane Operator

Houma, LA · On-site

Hydraulic Friction Crane Operator

Houma, LA · On-site

Be Seen First

Crane Operator Needed - Per Diem

Orlando, FL · On-site

$42 - $45/hr

Quick apply

Be Seen First

Crane Operator Needed - Per Diem

Orlando, FL · On-site

$42 - $45/hr

Crane Operator

$24/hr

Crane Operator

$24/hr

Walbec Group

Certified Crane Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

Successfully pass or has passed the Operators Union aptitude test when required. * Piling and sheeting experience, and prior experience in pile driving, multi-line work, friction crane, and multi ...

Walbec Group

Certified Crane Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

Crane Operator

Jefferson, LA

The requirements for the position are as follows: a Must have a minimum of 2 (two) years of experience operating: Manitowoc 150 Ton Friction Crane a Must have crane certification, reliable ...

Friction Crane Operators Jobs

$24/hr

Broussard Brothers Inc

Crane Operator

Abbeville, LA · On-site

The Friction Crane Operator is responsible for operating various types of cranes: Truck and Crawler cranes from hydraulic to friction* Essential Functions: * Operate crane to move material around ...

Quick apply

Broussard Brothers Inc

Abbeville, LA · On-site

Broussard Brothers

Crane Operator

Abbeville, LA · On-site

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

Ai Mod

Friction Crane Operators information

See salary details

$14

$28

$40

How much do friction crane operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for friction crane operators 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 a Friction Crane Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Friction Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy equipment operation, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized crane operator certification. Familiarity with friction crane controls, rigging equipment, and adherence to OSHA standards are crucial for safe and effective performance. Strong hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and good communication skills set top operators apart, enabling them to work efficiently with crews on complex job sites. These skills are vital for ensuring workplace safety, preventing equipment damage, and maintaining project timelines in construction and industrial environments.

What are friction crane operators?

Friction crane operators are skilled professionals who operate cranes that use friction-driven mechanisms, typically found in older or specialized lifting equipment. These operators are responsible for safely maneuvering heavy loads on construction sites, often using cranes with mechanical clutches and brakes rather than hydraulic systems. Their job requires a strong understanding of crane mechanics, safety protocols, and hand-eye coordination to ensure precise placement of materials. In addition to operating the crane, they may also perform routine maintenance and inspections to keep the equipment in good working order.

What are some common challenges that Friction Crane Operators face on a typical job site?

Friction Crane Operators often encounter challenges such as working in confined spaces, dealing with variable weather conditions, and managing complex lifts that require precise coordination with ground crews. Maintaining clear communication with riggers and signalers is essential to ensure safety and efficiency, especially when handling heavy or irregular loads. Additionally, operators must stay vigilant about equipment maintenance and safety protocols to prevent mechanical failures and workplace accidents.

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

Aspect	Friction Crane Operators	Tower Crane Operators
Credentials	Crane operator certification, OSHA training	Crane operator certification, OSHA training
Work Environment	Construction sites, industrial settings	High-rise construction, tall building sites
Industry Usage	Construction, shipping yards	Skyscraper construction, large-scale projects
Common Search/Comparison	Yes	Yes

Friction Crane Operators and Tower Crane Operators both require similar certifications and work in construction environments. However, friction crane operators typically handle mobile or ground-based cranes, while tower crane operators work on tall, fixed cranes for high-rise projects. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in the construction industry.

Infographic showing various Friction Crane Operators job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,350 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Crane Operator Needed - Per Diem