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Shipping Container Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Blythe Construction, Inc.

Crane Operator

SC · On-site

Primary function of a Crane Operator: Operate a crane. Relocate crane or materials on construction ... Load or unload bundles from trucks or move containers. * Attach load with grappling devices, such ...

Russell Marine LLC

Crane Operator

Channelview, TX · On-site

The Crane Operator will operate a variety of friction or hydraulic lattice boom cranes with lifting ... containers, or cargo. * Utilize load charts to ensure lifts are performed within the determined ...

Quality Auto & Equipment, Inc.

Crane Operator

Sandston, VA · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

... shipping and receiving tasks in the warehouse as needed. Qualifications: * Valid NCCCO or NCCER ... crane operator certification/license REQUIRED. * Experience operating gantry cranes, rough terrain ...

Enstructure

Port Crane Operator

New Haven, CT · On-site

Port Crane Operator The port crane operator is responsible for loading and unloading bulk and ... Safely and efficiently operate ship cranes & shore cranes, container handlers, forklifts, yard ...

Enstructure

Port Crane Operator

New Haven, CT · On-site

Port Crane Operator The port crane operator is responsible for loading and unloading bulk and ... Safely and efficiently operate ship cranes & shore cranes, container handlers, forklifts, yard ...

Orchid Monroe LLC

Crane Operator

Monroe, WI · On-site

$20/hr

The Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of overhead cranes, fork ... Transport finished products and materials to designated storage, staging, or shipping areas ...

Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc

Crane Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Crane Operator is responsible for the operation of hydraulic and/or cable equipment to lift and ... Load or unload bundles from trucks or move material to or from containers using moving equipment.

SA Recycling

Hydraulic Crane Operator

Miami, FL · On-site

As a Hydraulic Crane Operator, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operations of a hydraulic grapple or magnetic crane to load and unload containers and trailers, and lift and move ...

Reliance

Crane Operator

Portage, IN · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Crane Operator Founded in 1954, Feralloy Corporation has grown to become one of the country ... Support production, warehouse, and shipping activities as needed. * Maintain a clean and organized ...

Schnitzer Steel Industries Inc

Crane Operator

Portland, ME · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

The Crane Operator is responsible for the operation of hydraulic and/or cable equipment to lift and ... Load or unload bundles from trucks or move material to or from containers using moving equipment.

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Shipping Container Crane Operator information

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$11

$18

$23

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

As of Sep 10, 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.

What are popular job titles related to Shipping Container Crane Operator jobs?

For Shipping Container Crane Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Shipping Container 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 $38,978 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Crane Operator

SC • On-site

Blythe Construction, Inc.
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Blythe Construction, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Blythe Construction rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
United Infrastructure Group continues to be a leader in the transportation construction industry in the southeast with a 100+ year history of delivering successful projects by hiring exceptional employees to work in a professional family environment. UIG is committed to developing the best workforce possible by constantly recruiting, training, and promoting construction industry professionals throughout our organization.
Our comprehensive benefits package is custom-designed to achieve that goal through access to the following benefits:
  • Highly Competitive Salaries
  • Generous Performance Bonuses
  • Robust Subsistence Allowances
  • Comprehensive Health Plans with Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Strong 401k Savings and Profit Sharing Plan with 100% Matching Contributions
  • Significant Paid Time Off
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Training, Education, Certification, and Qualification Assistance
  • Benefits may vary based on position and length of employment.

Primary function of a Crane Operator:
Operate a crane. Relocate crane or materials on construction projects. Operate crane to set customer's items per senior crane operator's instructions. CCO Certification for Telescopic Boom Cranes - Fixed Cab (TSS) and Swing Cab (TLL), and Lattice Boom Crane (LBC) required. May use cranes in all applications.
Duties include but are not limited to:
  • Safety minded and adhered to all safety policies, in addition to passing a test in reference to safe operation in a trench.
  • Knowledge of and ability to select cables, winches, blocks, wire ropes, pulleys, chains and grappling devices according to weight and size of load to be lifted.
  • Inspect and adjust crane mechanisms or lifting accessories to prevent malfunction or damage.
  • Inspect cables or grappling devices for wear and install or replace cables, as needed.
  • Load or unload bundles from trucks or move containers.
  • Attach load with grappling devices, such as loops, wires, ropes, and chains, to crane hook.
  • Install attachments such as jib, lattice extensions, auxiliary heads, and pile hammers.
  • Clean and inspect machinery or equipment to detect problems.
  • Receive directions to engage in hoisting and moving loads to ensure safety of workers and material handled, using hand signals, loudspeakers, two-way radios, or telephone.
  • Read and interpret lifting capacity charts, daily work or delivery schedules to determine orders, sequence of deliveries, or special loading instructions.
  • Direct workers engaged in hoisting of machinery and equipment into or on to trucks, railroad cars or other moving devices.
  • Must maintain a logbook.

Skills, Knowledge, Qualifications & Experience:
  • Must hold a valid TSS, TLL, and LBC CCO Certification.
  • At least 3 years' experience as a crane operator, preferred.
  • Maintain DOT physical.
  • Maintain working knowledge of load charts, hand signals, and state, and federal DOT laws.
  • Must be able to work independently, prioritize daily work assignments, and communicate with all team members.
  • Be able to coordinate the movements of hand and feet according to visual signals and directions.
  • Have a complete knowledge of crane and rigging signals.
  • Know the emergency response procedures for mobile crane operations.
  • Must follow policies and procedures and support UIG's Mission.

REQUIREMENTS: ALL Applicants must be:
  • 18 years of Age
  • Able to pass a Drug Test
  • Legally eligible to work in the US
  • Additional Requirements for Craftworkers:
    • Must have own transportation to and from jobsite every work day (driver's license required).
    • Must provide own hand tools (excluding power tools).
    • May be expected to travel where the project requires (multi-state opportunities).

UIG does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing firms
UIG IS PROUD TO BE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY (EOE) AFFIRMATIVE ACTION (AA) EMPLOYERUIG IS PROUD TO BE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY (EOE) AFFIRMATIVE ACTION (AA) EMPLOYER

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