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

Be part of the day to day rigging crews operating forklifts and rigging machinery. Education and/or Work Experience Requirements: *must have a class A CDL or willing to acquire one* · NCCO Crane ...

Be part of the day to day rigging crews operating forklifts and rigging machinery. Education and/or Work Experience Requirements: *must have a class A CDL or willing to acquire one* · NCCO Crane ...

Direct activities of crane operators in storage and shipment of plate * Set-up railcars and trailers in preparation for loading of steel plate for shipments * Keep accurate and legible records

Crane Chaser

Portland, OR · On-site

$25/hr

Direct activities of crane operators in storage and shipment of plate * Set-up railcars and trailers in preparation for loading of steel plate for shipments * Keep accurate and legible records

Crane Chaser

Portland, OR · On-site

$25/hr

Direct activities of crane operators in storage and shipment of plate * Set-up railcars and trailers in preparation for loading of steel plate for shipments * Keep accurate and legible records

CNC Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Overhead crane training and certification * Rigging training and certification * Always uphold Swinerton Core Values of Integrity, Leadership, Passion, and Excellence.

CNC Operator

Portland, OR · On-site

$21.75 - $29.75/hr

Overhead crane training and certification * Rigging training and certification * Always uphold Swinerton Core Values of Integrity, Leadership, Passion, and Excellence.

Showing results 21-40

Overhead Crane Operator information

See Portland, OR salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do overhead crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for overhead crane operator in Portland, OR is $19.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $20.34 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.

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:

Infographic showing various Overhead Crane Operator job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,869 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Tower/Hydraulic Crane Operator - Oregon & Washington

Hoffman Structures

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Application review will take into account without limitation the following criteria: union membership and qualifications, and experience specific to the job description/duties as well as prior experience with Hoffman Structures.WORK DESCRIPTION:• Operator, traveling-crane operator operates tra...