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Ship Loader Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Logistec

Ship Crane Operator

Gibsonton, FL · On-site

Join our team as a Ship Crane Operator on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast in Gibsonton, Florida, where you'll play a key role in safely and efficiently moving essential cargo through one of the region ...

Logistec

Ship Crane Operator

Gibsonton, FL · On-site

Join our team as a Ship Crane Operator on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast in Gibsonton, Florida, where you'll play a key role in safely and efficiently moving essential cargo through one of the region ...

Chesapeake Shipbuilding

Crane Operator

Salisbury, MD · On-site

... and ship components in accordance with production schedules. Promote a strong work ethic with a ... Transfer loads to construction site and discharge safely * Ability to bind loads to the crane or ...

Logistec

Ship Crane Operator

Gibsonton, FL · On-site

Join our team as a Ship Crane Operator on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast in Gibsonton, Florida, where you'll play a key role in safely and efficiently moving essential cargo through one of the region ...

Dannys Crane Inc

Crane Operator

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

In this role, you will operate cranes and hoists to safely transfer loads to construction sites. The ideal candidate is an experienced Crane Operator who prioritizes safety and has excellent ...

Dannys Crane Inc

Crane Operator

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

In this role, you will operate cranes and hoists to safely transfer loads to construction sites. The ideal candidate is an experienced Crane Operator who prioritizes safety and has excellent ...

Dannys Crane Inc

Crane Operator

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

In this role, you will operate cranes and hoists to safely transfer loads to construction sites. The ideal candidate is an experienced Crane Operator who prioritizes safety and has excellent ...

Site Worker

Crane Operator

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$38/hr

... and ship construction operations in Portsmouth, Virginia. This role sits inside an active heavy ... Calculate load capacity utilizing crane load charts, capacity indicators, and rigging ...

Dannys Crane Inc

Crane Operator

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

In this role, you will operate cranes and hoists to safely transfer loads to construction sites. The ideal candidate is an experienced Crane Operator who prioritizes safety and has excellent ...

TNT Crane & Rigging

Crane Operator

Marion, TX

Ensures safety first, along with safe lifting of the load, proper set-up of crane, while maintaining Customer focus. Follows all State and Federal laws while operating motor vehicles. Follows all ...

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Ship Loader Crane Operator information

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How much do ship loader crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship loader crane operator in the United States is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a ship loader crane operator do?

A Ship Loader Crane Operator is responsible for operating cranes and other heavy machinery to load and unload cargo from ships at ports or docks. They ensure that cargo is moved safely and efficiently, following safety regulations and loading plans. Operators must be skilled in handling different types of cranes and must communicate effectively with ground crews and ship personnel. Their work is essential for the smooth operation of maritime shipping and logistics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ship loader crane operator?

To thrive as a Ship Loader Crane Operator, you need a solid understanding of heavy machinery operation, spatial awareness, and safety protocols, usually supported by a high school diploma and specialized crane operation certifications. Familiarity with port management systems, radio communication devices, and various types of cranes is typically required. Attention to detail, strong hand-eye coordination, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this position. These competencies are essential to ensure efficient cargo handling, minimize accidents, and maintain smooth port operations.

What are some common challenges faced by ship loader crane operators and how can they be addressed?

Ship Loader Crane Operators often work in dynamic environments, where weather conditions, tight deadlines, and the need for precise coordination with ground crews can present significant challenges. Effective communication with team members and adherence to strict safety protocols are essential to manage these factors and prevent accidents or delays. Operators must also stay focused for long periods and adapt to changing cargo types, ensuring loads are balanced and secured properly. Regular training and maintaining a strong awareness of equipment limitations help operators perform safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Ship Loader Crane Operator vs Dock Worker?

AspectShip Loader Crane OperatorDock Worker
CredentialsCertifications in crane operation, safety trainingBasic safety and manual handling training
Work EnvironmentShipyards, ports, with crane operationPort terminals, loading/unloading areas
Industry UsageHeavy cargo handling, logisticsGeneral cargo handling, manual labor

The Ship Loader Crane Operator specializes in operating cranes to load and unload ships, requiring specific certifications and safety training. Dock Workers perform manual cargo handling and assist in port operations but do not operate heavy machinery. Both roles are essential in port logistics but differ mainly in technical skills and equipment use.

What are popular job titles related to Ship Loader Crane Operator jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Ship Loader Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Crane Operator

Staten Island, NY • On-site

May Ship Repair Contracting Corp.
Ship and Boat Building • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about May Ship Repair Contracting Corp.external

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

About the Role:
May Ship Repair Contracting Corp. is seeking an experienced Crane Operator to join our shipyard team in Staten Island, NY. The successful candidate will safely operate cranes to support vessel repair, steel fabrication and marine construction projects while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
Job Type - Full Time
Schedule : Monday - Friday 7:30am-4:00pm with overtime availability
Pay: Based upon experience

Responsibilities:
  • Operate lattice boom crawler cranes, hydraulic cranes or other heavy lifting equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Perform daily pre-operation inspections and report equipment deficiencies.
  • Lift, move and position steel, structural components, machine and vessel equipment.
  • Read and follow load charts, lift plans and supervisor instructions.
  • Work closely with riggers, signal persons and production crews during lifting operations.
  • Assist with loading and unloading trucks during deliveries.
  • Complete daily equipment inspection and maintenance logs.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Follow OSHA regulations and company safety procedures at all times.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support shipyard operations.
Requirements:
  • Minimum three (3) years of crane operating experience.
  • Experience operating lattice boom crawler and/or hydraulic cranes.
  • Shipyard, marine, steel fabrication, heavy industrial, or construction experience preferred.
  • Familiarity with OSHA safety standards and maritime industry regulations.
  • Ability to read and interpret rigging plans, load charts, and hand signals.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to workplace safety.
  • Ability to work in varying weather conditions and at heights in a shipyard environment.
  • Reliable transportation and dependable attendance.
  • NCCCO Crane Operator Certification Preferred.
  • CDL Preffered but not required.
  • Forklift or telehandler experience is a plus.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification is a plus.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to climb on and off heavy equipment throught the work day.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Ability to stand, bend, walk and climb throughout the work day.
About Us:
May Ship Repair Contracting Corp. is a full-service shipard located on Staten Island, New York specialing in vessel repair, steel fabrication and marine construction. We are looking for dependable, safety focused professionsals who take pride in quality workmanship and working as part of a skilled team. We offer steady, full time work with Overtime oportunities in a fast paced marine environment.