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Shipping Container Crane Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canon USA & Affiliates

Crane Operator

Houston, TX

Overview The Crane Operator will be responsible for safely and efficiently operating overhead ... shipping goals, and upholding the highest safety standards in a fast-paced warehouse environment.

Friedman Industries Inc

$14.50 - $17/hr

Crane Operator Friedman Industries is seeking a safety-focused and dependable Crane Operator to ... Read and interpret work orders and shipping documents * Communicate quality, safety, and service ...

Walbec Group

Certified Crane Operator

Green Bay, WI · On-site

Load or unload bundles from trucks or move containers to storage bins, using moving equipment ... CCO (Certified Crane Operator). * High School diploma or GED equivalent is preferred. * Must be ...

Arcosa Inc.

Overhead Crane Operator

Clinton, IL

$25 - $30/hr

Overhead Crane Operator Meyer Utility Structures is searching for Overhead Crane Operators for our ... shipping * Communicate effectively with floor personnel, riggers, welders, and other departments (e ...

Friedman Industries Inc

Overhead Crane Operator

Sinton, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Crane Operator - Sinton, TX Friedman Industries is seeking a safety-focused and dependable Crane ... Read and interpret work orders and shipping documents * Communicate quality, safety, and service ...

Canon

Requisition Crane Operator

Houston, TX

Crane Operator The Crane Operator will be responsible for safely and efficiently operating overhead ... shipping goals, and upholding the highest safety standards in a fast-paced warehouse environment.

Friedman Industries Inc

Overhead Crane Operator

Sinton, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Crane Operator - Sinton, TX Friedman Industries is seeking a safety-focused and dependable Crane ... Read and interpret work orders and shipping documents * Communicate quality, safety, and service ...

Friedman Industries Inc

Overhead Crane Operator

Sinton, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Crane Operator - Sinton, TX Friedman Industries is seeking a safety-focused and dependable Crane ... Read and interpret work orders and shipping documents * Communicate quality, safety, and service ...

Friedman Industries Inc

Overhead Crane Operator

Sinton, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Crane Operator - Sinton, TX Friedman Industries is seeking a safety-focused and dependable Crane ... Read and interpret work orders and shipping documents * Communicate quality, safety, and service ...

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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.
Heavy Equipment Crane Operator

Heavy Equipment Crane Operator

SA Recycling

Norcross, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

SA Recycling rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 71 rated recycling and waste

Job description

We are looking for hard-working, reliable and safety minded individual to join our team as a Crane Operator.  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 scrap metal of varying sizes and weights around the work area.

This position will work outside in varying weather conditions, and SA Recycling strictly adheres to all Metals Recycling Business Health, Safety, and Environmental standards.

Responsibilities of a  Crane Operator 

  • Operate a grapple or magnetic crane to lift, sort, load or unload scrap metal and debris in preparation for processing.
  • Determine load weights and verify against lifting capacities to prevent overloads and dangerous situations.
  • Manipulate hydraulic grapple or magnetic crane according to written, verbal or signal instructions within safe operational parameters.
  • Perform daily inspections reporting any concerns, defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
  • Direct truck drivers into proper position for loading or unloading of scrap metal.
  • Comply with all applicable federal, state, local, & SA Recycling safety, health, & environmental rules, regulations, policies, & procedures.

Qualifications of Crane Operator

  • High School diploma, GED Certification, or equivalent work experience.
  • 2-year previous grapple crane operations in the scrap metal or construction industries preferred.
  • Bi-lingual (English and Spanish) a plus.
  • Ability to carry out instructions provided in written or oral form.
  • Ability to learn new tasks as assigned required.
  • Must pass a medical physical and drug test
  • Must pass a background check
  • Attendance is a must for this position 

SA Recycling offers:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Eligible for Safety and Performance Bonuses
  • Comprehensive benefits including affordable medical options, dental and vision care
  • 401k with a Company Match
  • Weekly Pay
  • Referral Incentives
  • Company provided uniforms and PPE

 PLEASE NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.

An offer of employment by SA Recycling is contingent on the satisfactory completion of a post-offer drug screen, physical exam, and background check with a credit check (if position specified). 

All US applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

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