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Overhead Crane Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Crane Operator role is responsible for supporting finished goods yard and shipping operations through the safe and efficient movement, staging, loading, unloading, and inventory handling of ...

We are currently seeking to fill an opening for a Crane Operator. This position will be responsible for operating a stationary or traveling crane to lift, move, position, and reposition loads. The ...

The Crane Operator role is responsible for supporting finished goods yard and shipping operations through the safe and efficient movement, staging, loading, unloading, and inventory handling of ...

The Crane Operator role is responsible for supporting finished goods yard and shipping operations through the safe and efficient movement, staging, loading, unloading, and inventory handling of ...

We are currently seeking to fill an opening for a Crane Operator. This position will be responsible for operating a stationary or traveling crane to lift, move, position, and reposition loads. The ...

We are currently seeking to fill an opening for a Crane Operator. This position will be responsible for operating a stationary or traveling crane to lift, move, position, and reposition loads. The ...

Laser Operator Fruitport, MI, 2nd Shift, starting at $21+ per hour (based on experience) Job ... Load and unload materials using an overhead crane * Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Overhead Crane Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$11

$15

$21

How much do overhead crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for overhead crane operator in Michigan is $15.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is an overhead crane operator?

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.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Michigan? For Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Overhead Crane Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Overhead Crane Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Overhead Crane Operator jobs in MI? For Overhead Crane Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Overhead Crane Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,889 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Crane Operator

trane technologies

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Trane Technologies rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 299 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

114th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

Be a part of our mission! As a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable, and efficient climate solutions for buildings, homes and transportation, it's our responsibility to put the planet first. For us at Trane Technologies, and through our businesses including TraneandThermo King, sustainability is not just how we do business-it is our business. Do you dare to look at the world's challenges and see impactful possibilities? Do you want to contribute to making a better future? If the answer is yes, we invite you to consider joining us in boldly challenging what's possible for a sustainable world.

Learn about our benefits designed for you to Thrive at work and at home.

We boldly go.

Where is the work:

On-Site (5 days)

What's in it for you:

  • The Crane Operator role is responsible for supporting finished goods yard and shipping operations through the safe and efficient movement, staging, loading, unloading, and inventory handling of finished HVAC equipment and materials.
  • This role operates heavy equipment in a finished goods storage yard environment and helps ensure safety, equipment readiness, shipment support, and inventory accuracy standards are consistently maintained.
  • The position is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and requires regular outdoor work in varying weather conditions, including support during peak shipping periods and weather-related events.

What you will do:

  • Responsible for operating a Mi-Jack MJ100 Straddle Carrier in a safe and efficient manner within the finished goods storage yard.
  • Load and unload trailers, transport vehicles, and other designated equipment in support of shipping and yard operations.
  • Stage, relocate, and position finished HVAC products and materials throughout the storage yard based on operational priorities.
  • Perform pre-shift and post-shift inspections to verify equipment condition, identify issues, and report maintenance concerns promptly.
  • Follow established standard work, operating procedures, traffic patterns, and equipment handling requirements.
  • Support inventory accuracy through proper placement, movement, identification, and tracking of finished goods and materials.
  • Assist with cycle counts and inventory verification activities as required.
  • Coordinate effectively with logistics coordinators, shipping personnel, yard leadership, and other operational team members.
  • Maintain compliance with company safety policies, equipment operating rules, and site requirements.
  • Support yard organization, housekeeping, and safe traffic flow throughout the work area.
  • Respond effectively to changing shipping demands, peak workload periods, and weather-related operational needs.
  • Assist with other yard, shipping, and logistics support activities as assigned.
  • Attend, contribute to, and/or support meetings with team members and management as needed.
  • Demonstrate positive and proactive behavior.
  • Demonstrate good teamwork and communication skills, including communicating effectively with others.
  • Flexibility to work overtime, weekends, and adjusted schedules as required by business needs.

What you will bring:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • Minimum of two (2) years of heavy equipment operating experience required.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions required.
  • Mi-Jack or Travelift operating experience preferred.
  • Container handling experience preferred.
  • Rail or intermodal yard experience preferred.
  • Forklift certification
  • CDL Class A preferred.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, verbally communicate, and listen.
  • The employee frequently is required to use hands and arms to operate equipment and controls and may be required to climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • The employee may be required to access heavy equipment safely and repeatedly throughout the shift.
  • The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds frequently and lift and/or move up to 50 pounds occasionally.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position requires working mainly in the Grand Rapids finished goods storage yard and outdoor logistics environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts, heavy equipment, powered industrial vehicles, changing weather conditions, and fumes or airborne particles. The role requires the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, wind, snow, and other seasonal conditions. PPE is required in accordance with site policy.

Annual Base Salary Range or Hourly Base Pay Range:

$21.79

Compensation Type:

Hourly

Incentive Eligible:

No

Sales Commission Eligible:

No

Disclaimer: We strive to provide competitive compensation for this position, tailored to a variety of factors. The actual compensation will depend on elements such as seniority, merit, geographic location, education, experience, travel requirements, and union designation. Our compensation range is generally based on the national average for the country. Additionally, benefits may vary depending on the region, business alignment, union involvement, and employee status.

Thrive at work and at home:


  • Benefits kick in on DAY ONE for you and your family, including health insurance and holistic wellness programs that include generous incentives - WE DARE TO CARE!
  • Family building benefits include fertility coverage and adoption/surrogacy assistance.
  • 401K match up to 6%, plus an additional 2% core contribution = up to 8% company contribution.
  • Paid time off includes 15 vacation days, 9 paid holidays, 3 floating holidays, sick leave, and additional options to support volunteer and parental leave.
  • Educational and training opportunities through company programs along with tuition assistance and student debt support.

Disclaimer: Benefit offerings may vary depending on Collective Bargaining Agreements and local/state regulations.


Safety Sensitive Role:

Yes

The company designates certain roles as Safety Sensitive. Safety Sensitive roles may require that you pass additional drug screening.

We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits and programs. We are an equal opportunity employer; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, pregnancy, age, marital status, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any legally protected status.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Trane Technologies

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Trane Technologies and through our businesses including Trane® and Thermo King®, we create innovative climate solutions for buildings, homes, and transportation that challenge what's possible for a sustainable world. We're a team that dares to look at the world's challenges and see impactful possibilities. We believe in a better future when we uplift others and enable our people to thrive at work and at home. We boldly go.

Industry

Industrial machinery manufacturing and machinery manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US