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Independent Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Crowder Construction

Crane Operator

Fries, VA · On-site

Operate crane to set customer's items per senior crane operator's instructions. CCO Certification ... Must be able to work independently, prioritize daily work assignments and communicate with all ...

Triple-S Steel

Crane Operator

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

The Crane Operator is responsible for operating an overhead crane to lift, move, position, and ... Ability to effectively plan and organize work activities independent of direct supervision; work ...

Triple-S Steel

Crane Operator

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

The Operator controls crane functions by depressing buttons as well as manipulating levers. The ... Ability to effectively plan and organize work activities independent of direct supervision; work ...

Triple-S Steel

Crane Operator

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

The Operator controls crane functions by depressing buttons as well as manipulating levers. The ... Ability to effectively plan and organize work activities independent of direct supervision; work ...

Reliance

Crane Operator

Decatur, AL · On-site

Crane Operator Founded in 1954, Feralloy Corporation has grown to become one of the country ... Work independently and as part of a team to achieve operational goals. * Assist with inventory ...

Bauer Foundation Corp

Crane Operator

Odessa, FL · On-site

Crane Operator BAUER Foundation Corp. (BFC) is a Florida corporation and the U.S. subsidiary of the ... Ability to work independently and on a team Compensation and benefits: Competitive salary; exact ...

EAS

Heavy Crane Operator - MW

High Point, NC · On-site

Overhead Crane Operator Environmental Air Systems, a full-service mechanical contractor, is seeking ... Ability to work independently and on a team * Strong verbal communication skills * Ability to lift ...

Mellott Company

Certified Crane Operator

Marion, NC · On-site

Certified Crane Operator Location Marion, NC (Primary Location) Occasional travel to Nashville, TN ... Ability to work independently and as part of a crew * Strong mechanical aptitude * Problem-solving ...

Monogram Foods

Operator, Crane (34967)

Bristol, IN · On-site

Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety ... Crane Operator Certification, Crane Safety Certification, Fall Protection Training, Safety Harness ...

M HOLDING CO

Crane Operator

Phoenix, AZ

Marco Crane & Rigging is looking for a full-time Crane Operator for our PHOENIX branch. This ... Work intellectually in character in order to exercise independent decision making; * Accurately and ...

Blythe Construction

OPERATOR - CRANE

West Columbia, SC · On-site

Primary function of a Crane Operator: Operate a crane. Relocate crane or materials on construction ... Must be able to work independently, prioritize daily work assignments, and communicate with all ...

M HOLDING CO

Crane Operator

Flagstaff, AZ

Marco Crane & Rigging is looking for a full-time Crane Operator for our Flagstaff branch. This ... Work intellectually in character in order to exercise independent decision making; * Accurately and ...

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Independent Crane Operator information

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$14

$28

$40

How much do independent crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent 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 an independent crane operator?

Independent Crane Operators are professionals who operate cranes and other heavy lifting equipment on a contractual or freelance basis, rather than as employees of a single company. They are responsible for safely moving heavy materials at construction sites, ports, or industrial facilities, often bringing their own expertise and sometimes their own equipment. Independent Crane Operators must have specialized training, proper certification, and thorough knowledge of safety regulations. They are typically hired for specific projects and need strong problem-solving skills to adapt to different job sites and tasks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent crane operator?

To thrive as an Independent Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of crane operation, load calculations, and safety procedures, typically supported by a high school diploma and relevant crane operator certification (such as NCCCO). Proficiency with various types of cranes, rigging equipment, and safety management systems is expected. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to work independently set top operators apart. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, efficient lifting operations and compliance with regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by independent crane operators on job sites?

Independent crane operators often face challenges such as adapting to different types of equipment, ensuring compliance with varying safety regulations across job sites, and coordinating effectively with diverse teams. They may also be responsible for their own equipment maintenance and scheduling, which requires strong organizational skills. Additionally, operators must stay current with certification requirements and industry standards to maintain employability and safety.

What is the difference between Independent Crane Operator vs Crane Apprentice?

AspectIndependent Crane OperatorCrane Apprentice
CredentialsCrane operator certification, licensing (if required)Training program, basic certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial projectsTraining sites, supervised job sites
Employer UsageSelf-employed or contracted for projectsEmployed by a company or contractor for training

In summary, an Independent Crane Operator is fully certified and works independently or as a contractor, while a Crane Apprentice is in training, gaining experience under supervision. The main difference lies in certification level, work independence, and experience.

Is 40 too old to become an independent crane operator?

Age is not a strict barrier to becoming an independent crane operator, as the job primarily requires physical fitness, technical skills, and proper certification. Many operators start or continue in the field at age 40 or older, provided they meet health and licensing requirements and have relevant experience or training.

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

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

Infographic showing various Independent Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,350 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Crane Operator

Fries, VA • On-site

Crowder Construction
Construction • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Crowder Constructionexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Since 1947, Crowder has built a legacy of success in the construction industry. We work throughout the Southeast on heavy construction infrastructure projects ranging from bridges, dams, water and wastewater treatment facilities, power plants and other energy facilities. We are a general contractor who self performs civil, electrical and mechanical trades on both traditional and more complex alternative delivery projects.

As a family-owned company, it is the spirit of not only doing the right things, but doing things the right way that is the true legacy of our founders and our people. Crowder is Building America and Proud of It as reflected in our Mission Statement:

We are dedicated to superior performance and committed to making a positive difference for our clients, for our communities, and in the lives of our employees.

If you are looking for a career, not just a job, with a company committed to your future, apply today.

CROWDER IS PROUD TO BE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER (EOE)
All Qualified Minorities, Females, Individuals with Disabilities and Veterans are encouraged to apply.

Crowder is a Drug Free Workplace and E-Verify Employer

REQUIREMENTS: ALL Applicants must be:

  • 18 years of Age
  • Able to Pass a Drug Test
  • Legally Eligible to Work in the US
  • Additional Requirements for Craftworkers:
    • Must have reliable transportation to and from jobsite every workday (driver's license not required)
    • Must provide own hand tools (excluding power tools)
    • May be expected to travel where the project requires (multi-state opportunities)

Primary function of a Crane Operator:

Operate a crane. Relocate crane or materials on construction projects. Operate crane to set customer's items per senior crane operator's instructions. CCO Certification for Telescopic Boom Cranes - Fixed Cab (TSS) and Swing Cab (TLL) required. Certification to run RT and Crawler Cranes preferred.

Typical duties include but are not limited to:

  • Knowledge of and ability to select cables, winches, blocks, and chains according to weight and size of load to be lifted.
  • Attach load with grappling devices, such as loops, wires, ropes, and chains, to crane hook.
  • Receive directions to engage in hoisting and moving loads to insure safety of workers and material handled, using hand signals, loud speakers, two-way radios, or telephone.
  • Read and interpret lifting capacity charts.
  • May direct workers engaged in hoisting of machinery and equipment into or on to trucks, railroad cars or other moving devices.
  • Must be safety minded and adhere to all safety policies in addition to passing a test in reference to safe operation in a trench.
  • Must maintain a log book.

Skills, Knowledge, Qualifications & Experience:

  • Must hold a valid TSS and TLL CCO Certification
  • At least 3 years experience as a crane operator recommended
  • Maintain DOT physical
  • Maintain working knowledge of load charts, hand signals, and state and federal DOT laws
  • Must be able to work independently, prioritize daily work assignments and communicate with all levels of employees
  • Be able to coordinate the movements of hand and feet according to visual signals and directions
  • Have a complete knowledge of crane and rigging signals
  • Know the emergency response procedures for mobile crane operations

Benefits:

Crowder's Mission Statement is the commitment to "make a positive difference in the lives of our employees." Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to achieve that goal through access to the following competitive benefits:

  • Health Plans, including Medical, Dental and Vision
  • Tax-Advantaged Spending Plans (HSA and FSA)
  • Wellness Program with Incentives
  • 401k Savings Plan
  • Life/AD&D and Disability Insurance
  • Company Paid Holiday, Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Crowder YOUniversity Career-Based Training
  • Educational Assistance

Benefits may vary based on position and length of employment.

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