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Overhead Crane Operator Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

builders

Boom/Crane Operator

Beaverton, OR · On-site

Requires Boom or Crane Operator certification. Work Environment / Physical Activity: * Work is performed within a production environment, subject to temperature variations, hazardous chemicals ...

builders

Boom/Crane Operator

Beaverton, OR · On-site

Requires Boom or Crane Operator certification. Work Environment / Physical Activity: * Work is performed within a production environment, subject to temperature variations, hazardous chemicals ...

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All JobsOverhead Crane Operator JobsOverhead Crane Operator Jobs in Portland, OR

Overhead Crane Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$19

$25

How much do overhead crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for overhead crane operator in Portland, OR is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Portland, OR?

For Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Overhead Crane Operator jobs in Portland, OR are:

Overhead Crane Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Overhead Crane Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 3% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,147 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Warehouse Overhead Crane Operator

M S International

Tualatin, OR • On-site

$52K - $68K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Summary: The overhead crane operator is responsible for pulling slab orders accurately and safely. This task will be performed using the overhead cranes.
Work Hours: Monday to Friday from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM, 2 Saturday(s) a month from 08:00 AM to 01:00 PM
Seniority Level: Entry Level
Employment Type: Full-time
Compensation: This hourly, non-exempt position pays from $21 to $24 per hour, with overtime compensated at 1.5 times the base rate. New hires usually earn between $52,600 and $68,900 annually, or more, depending on experience, overtime hours, and bonuses.
To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to complete the following essential duties and responsibilities:
  • Pull slabs from the warehouse from the slab orders provided
  • Move slabs to loading areas by using overhead cranes
  • Load slabs on customer's vehicle/truck
  • Ensure that product is well secured on vehicle/truck and takes all necessary safety measures
  • Unload slabs from containers using forklifts
  • Arrange slabs properly by forklift/crane in Slab Warehouse
  • Responsible for maintaining the slab warehouse clean and safe for staff and customers
  • Performs additional duties as required and or requested.
Additionally, the candidate must meet the following Education and/or Experience requirements:
  • High School Education or equivalent required.
  • Two (2) plus years' experience in a warehouse environment.
  • Forklift, overhead crane and warehouse experience preferred
  • Ability to use Smart Phones/Tablets
  • Good communicate skills
  • Ability to work independently and as a part of a team.
This role has the following 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 use their hands to handle objects, tools, or controls; reach with their hands and arms; and communicate verbally. The employee frequently walks, stands and occasionally sits.
  • The employee must regularly lift, pull and move up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 70 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.
  • This is a safety-sensitive position.

Benefits: MSI offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support and reward our employees. Depending on the role, this may include:
  • Referral, holiday, and annual bonuses or commission opportunities
  • Eligibility for an annual merit-based increase
  • Paid Time Off
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Company-paid Short Term and Long Term disability;
  • Company-paid Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k) plans with company matching contributions
  • Charitable donation matching programs
  • Free, company-sponsored 1-on-1 tutoring for children/dependents of MSI employees in grades k-12, including free tutoring for SAT and ACT tests.

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