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Shipping Container Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gulf Stream Marine

Harbor Crane Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Overview This position is responsible for safely operating a Mobile Harbor Crane loading and unloading vessels at the marine terminal, handling containers, bulk cargos, general cargos, heavy lift and ...

Rail Management Services

Crane Operator

Westwego, LA

$18 - $20/hr

Pay close attention to the duties of a Crane Operator. &feature=youtu.be Pacific Rail Services is ... This will include locking and unlocking container chassis, trailer hitches, IBC's and bolsters.

Gulf Stream Marine

Harbor Crane Operator

Houston, TX

Overview This position is responsible for safely operating a Mobile Harbor Crane loading and unloading vessels at the marine terminal, handling containers, bulk cargos, general cargos, heavy lift and ...

Gulf Stream Marine

Harbor Crane Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

Overview This position is responsible for safely operating a Mobile Harbor Crane loading and unloading vessels at the marine terminal, handling containers, bulk cargos, general cargos, heavy lift and ...

Ameri-Force

TWIC Crane Operator

New Orleans, LA · On-site

Crane Operator (TWIC) Location: New Orleans, LA Job Type: Full-Time Shift: Day Shift and Night ... Operate various types of cranes to lift, move, position, and reposition loads including containers ...

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Shipping Container Crane Operator information

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How much do shipping container crane operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for shipping container crane operator in the United States is $18.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Shipping Container Crane Operator do?

A Shipping Container Crane Operator is responsible for operating large cranes at ports and shipping terminals to load and unload shipping containers from cargo ships, trucks, and trains. They ensure containers are moved safely and efficiently, following strict safety protocols and communicating with ground crews. Operators often work at great heights and must have excellent coordination, attention to detail, and the ability to handle complex machinery. The role is essential in the global supply chain, helping ensure goods are transported smoothly between different modes of transportation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Shipping Container Crane Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Shipping Container Crane Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by specialized crane operator certification. Familiarity with container terminal operating systems (TOS), radio communication devices, and heavy machinery controls is typically required. Attention to safety, the ability to work under pressure, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient cargo handling and minimize the risk of accidents in busy port environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Shipping Container Crane Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Shipping Container Crane Operators often encounter challenges such as operating heavy machinery in busy, high-traffic port environments and working in varying weather conditions. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to safety protocols, clear communication with ground crew, and adaptability to rapidly changing schedules. Many operators find that ongoing training, staying up-to-date with safety standards, and developing teamwork skills are key to successfully handling the demands of the role. Additionally, being proactive about equipment maintenance can help minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations.

What is the difference between Shipping Container Crane Operator vs Dockworker?

AspectShipping Container Crane OperatorDockworker
CredentialsCertifications in crane operation, CDL often preferredBasic OSHA safety training, no specialized certifications required
Work EnvironmentOperate cranes in port or terminal settingsManual labor at docks, handling cargo and equipment
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, port authoritiesShipping yards, freight companies
Job FocusOperating cranes to load/unload containersMoving cargo, securing goods, general dock work

While both roles are essential in port operations, the Shipping Container Crane Operator specializes in operating cranes to handle containers, requiring specific certifications. Dockworkers perform manual cargo handling and support port activities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in maritime logistics.

Infographic showing various Shipping Container Crane Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,978 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Shipping Crane Operator, BRS

Exploratory Ventures, LLC

Osceola, IA

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

**Digital assessment test is required to be completed within 14 days of submitting application.
Objective of the Job:
This position is a Shipping Operator responsible for the cautious coil movements and coil shipments in and around the facility while operating an overhead crane.
Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Ensure Safety, Environmental, Quality requirements and "where applicable" ResponsibleSteel requirements are followed.
2) Ensure good housekeeping practices are carried out in job areas and grounds.
3) Effectively communicate within the Shipping Department and with the Operational Units and Logistics to support coil movements, shipments, and improvement to its processes.
4) Support all functions of the Shipping Department to ensure appropriate and timely coil placement and shipments. 5) Assist the Shift Supervisor with the daily operations relating to operations of the overhead crane and assistance in the development of teammates while ensuring crew safety.
Qualifications:
1) Quality, detail, and safety oriented; mechanically inclined and self-motivated
2) Strong technical and analytical problem-solving skills
3) Good insight into team dynamics with strong verbal communication skills
4) High School diploma or equivalent; college degree a plus
5) Previous related experience preferred
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:
Environment is typical for a steel mill production area, with extreme temperatures, high noise levels, and dusty/greasy areas. Physically demanding work will be required in the production environment and the ability to routinely climb, lift, and move heavy objects during shift may be required. Typical work hours are 12-hour shifts, which rotate days and nights. This results in working some weekends/holidays and overtime.
Supervisory Responsibility:
This position does not supervise other,

Since 1901, U. S. Steel has been a recognized leader in steel production. Today, as the first North American steel company to have declared a 2050 net-zero greenhouse gas emissions goal, we remain as innovative as ever, leading transformation across our industry while continuing to make products for everyday life - from industries as far ranging as automotive, construction, containers and packaging, appliances, and energy.
Underneath it all is our Culture of Caring, which shows up in our community partnerships, charitable contributions, company-sponsored employee volunteer initiatives, scholarship programs, leadership training, and much more. And of course, it takes shape in a steadfast commitment to safety first in our workplaces and respect for our employees, who are United by Steel.
We are honored to have earned accolades and awards from well-regarded organizations, including the following:

  • Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies 2022, '23, '24
  • Disability: IN's Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion 2021, '22, '23, '24
  • Human Rights Campaign Foundation's Equality 100 Award 2020, '21, '22, '23-24, '25
  • Military Times' Best for Vets: Employers 2023, '24


Conducting business with integrity and with the highest ethical values has underpinned U. S. Steel's success for over 100 years, and it remains critical to our company's success in the future. U. S. Steel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) according to job qualifications without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, genetics, sexual orientation, sex, gender identity, disability status or status as a protected Veteran or any other legally protected group status. (California residents may visit www.ussteel.com/CANotice regarding collection of personal information and U. S. Steel's privacy practices.)

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