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Overhead Crane Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Overhead Crane Operator

Chesterton, IN

$16.25 - $19/hr

Overhead Crane Operator - Heavy Industrial Steel This role operates power-driven overhead gantry cranes and related equipment to move large steel slabs safely and efficiently within a heavy ...

Magic Coil Products

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Crane Operator

Butler, IN · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

We are willing to train the right candidates, but previous overhead crane experience is preferred. We are growing and need energetic employees who want to grow with us. Crane Operator- Operate a 25 ...

Steel Technologies

Crane Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

Crane Operator Job Category: Manufacturing Full-Time On-site Portage, IN 46368, USA Description As ... Operate overhead crane to transport materials to and from storage areas, workstations, load and ...

Steel Technologies LLC

Crane Operator

Portage, IN

Operate overhead crane to transport materials to and from storage areas, workstations, load and ... Experience operating an overhead crane * Knowledge of current crane operation protocol * Ability to ...

Steel Technologies

Crane Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

Operate overhead crane to transport materials to and from storage areas, workstations, load and ... Experience operating an overhead crane * Knowledge of current crane operation protocol * Ability to ...

Reliance

Crane Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Crane Operator Founded in 1954, Feralloy Corporation has grown to become one of the country ... Operate overhead cranes to safely move, load, unload, and stage steel materials. * Perform daily ...

reliance

Crane Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Operate overhead cranes to safely move, load, unload, and stage steel materials. * Perform daily ... Previous overhead crane operating experience preferred (2+ years preferred). * Experience in a ...

Cranes and Compressors Inc

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Overhead Crane Maintenance Technician

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... crane systems operating by performing inspections, troubleshooting breakdowns, performing preventative maintenance, responding to repair calls · Documents service and installation actions by ...

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All JobsOverhead Crane Operator JobsOverhead Crane Operator Jobs in Indiana

Overhead Crane Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$12

$17

$23

How much do overhead crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for overhead crane operator in Indiana is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $18.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can crane operators make 300k a year?

Overhead crane operators typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with top earners in specialized industries or with extensive experience reaching higher salaries. Earning $300,000 a year is uncommon and would generally require advanced skills, certifications, and working in high-paying sectors or managerial roles.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for cranes?

The 3-3-3 rule for cranes is a safety guideline that recommends staying at least three times the load's weight away from the load, three times the load's weight away from the crane, and three times the load's weight away from the crane's swing radius. Overhead crane operators must follow these distances to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation, especially when working with heavy loads and in busy environments.

How much do top crane operators make?

Top overhead crane operators can earn salaries ranging from $60,000 to over $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry. Skilled operators with specialized training and certifications tend to earn higher wages, especially in high-demand environments or with overtime opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Overhead Crane Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Overhead Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of crane operation safety, load management, and mechanical aptitude, typically supported by a high school diploma and operator certification. Familiarity with industrial crane controls, rigging equipment, and OSHA safety standards is essential. Attention to detail, strong hand-eye coordination, and clear communication skills set top operators apart. These abilities are critical for ensuring safe, efficient material handling and preventing workplace accidents in industrial environments.

What Does an Overhead Crane Operator Do?

As an overhead crane operator, your duties and responsibilities include operating different types of cranes, such as a gantry crane, at a construction site, rail depot, shipyard, or another facility. You use cranes for lifting steel components, ship containers, or other large objects. For example, at a construction site, you may move beams or mechanical equipment up to the tops of skyscrapers. At a port, on the other hand, you use cranes to unload ships and load trucks or trains which carry the freight to distribution facilities.

What are some common challenges Overhead Crane Operators face on the job?

Overhead Crane Operators often encounter challenges such as maneuvering heavy loads in tight or crowded spaces, maintaining focus during repetitive tasks, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Operators must constantly communicate with ground personnel to ensure smooth coordination and prevent accidents. Additionally, they need to stay updated on equipment maintenance and quickly troubleshoot any mechanical issues to minimize downtime.

What are Overhead Crane Operators?

Overhead Crane Operators are skilled professionals who operate cranes that move heavy materials through the overhead space in factories, warehouses, construction sites, and other industrial settings. They use mechanical and electronic controls to lift, move, and position loads precisely, often working with large, heavy, or unwieldy objects. These operators must follow strict safety protocols to ensure the safety of themselves and others, as well as the integrity of the materials being handled. Their role is crucial to efficient material handling and workflow in many industrial environments.

How much does an overhead crane operator earn?

Overhead crane operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in industrial settings may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What is the difference between Overhead Crane Operator vs Forklift Operator?

AspectOverhead Crane OperatorForklift Operator
CertificationsCrane operator license, OSHA certificationForklift certification, OSHA certification
Work EnvironmentFactories, warehouses, construction sites with overhead cranesWarehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing plants
Job DutiesOperate overhead cranes to move heavy loads vertically and horizontallyOperate forklifts to transport materials over short distances

Both roles require OSHA certification and are common in industrial settings. Overhead Crane Operators focus on lifting heavy loads with overhead cranes, while Forklift Operators handle material transport using forklifts. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit based on skills and work environment.

More about Overhead Crane Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Indiana? For Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Overhead Crane Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Overhead Crane Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Overhead Crane Operator jobs in IN? For Overhead Crane Operator jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Overhead Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Overhead Crane Operator job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,907 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Overhead crane operator

Ursitti Enterprises LLC

Gary, IN

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Overhead Crane Operator

Location: Gary, Indiana

Company: Steel Service Center

Employment Type: Full-Time

Shift: 1st and 2nd


Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious Overhead Crane Operator to join our team at our Steel Service Center in Gary, IN. The ideal candidate will have experience operating overhead bridge cranes to move heavy steel materials, including coils, plates, bars, and structural products, throughout the warehouse and production areas.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate overhead cranes to load, unload, and move steel materials to designated areas.
  • Inspect cranes daily and report any maintenance or safety issues.
  • Work closely with machine operators, forklift drivers, and shipping personnel to ensure efficient material handling and distribution.
  • Follow all company safety protocols and OSHA regulations.
  • Secure loads properly using chains, slings, and hooks; ensure they are balanced and stable during lifting.
  • Read and interpret work orders, load charts, and shop instructions.
  • Assist with material staging for processing or outbound shipment.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.


Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Minimum 1 year of experience operating overhead bridge cranes, preferably in a steel or metals environment.
  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work in a physically demanding environment.
  • Basic math and measurement skills.
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented, fast-paced setting.
  • Forklift experience is a plus.
  • Strong commitment to safety.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience working in a Steel Service Center or similar industrial setting.
  • Knowledge of steel types and sizes.
  • Familiarity with ERP or inventory tracking systems