1st Class Crane Operator

Virginia Ship Repair Association; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Crane Operator, where you will play a vital role in the shipyard's operations by ensuring the safe and efficient handling of heavy materials. This position requires a deep understanding of crane operations, particularly friction cranes, along with a commitment to safety and teamwork. You will be responsible for operating various cranes, performing routine maintenance, and collaborating with other trades to complete projects on time. If you have a passion for working in a dynamic environment and possess the necessary skills and experience, this is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a respected leader in the ship repair industry.

Benefits

Medical/Dental/Vision Options

Company Paid Disability Insurance

401k with Match

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Company Paid Holidays

Qualifications

• 7+ years experience operating cranes, especially friction cranes.
• Expertise in load handling, rigging, and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Operate various cranes to lift and position heavy materials safely.
• Collaborate with crew members for efficient crane operations.

Skills

Crane Operation

Safety Protocols

Load Handling

Rigging

Communication

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Registered Apprenticeship

Tools

Friction Cranes

Mobile Cranes

Overhead Cranes

Tower Cranes

Forklifts

Job description

As a Crane Operator at Colonna’s Shipyard, Inc., you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes within the shipyard, including lifting, moving, and positioning heavy materials and equipment. This role requires advanced knowledge of crane operations (specifically friction cranes), a strong focus on safety, and the ability to work in coordination with other trades and project teams.

The position is located onsite in Norfolk, VA and will often require hours beyond a standard work week with flexible schedule availability to support production/operations. Position may require limited travel.

Key responsibilities include:

• Operate various types of cranes, including mobile, overhead, friction, and tower cranes, to lift, move, and position heavy materials and equipment within the shipyard and aboard vessels.
• Assess load weights and ensure they are within the crane’s capacity. Safely rig loads using appropriate techniques and equipment.
• Work closely with riggers, signalpersons, and other crew members to coordinate movements and ensure clear communication during crane operations.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on crane equipment to ensure reliable operation and extend the equipment's lifespan.
• Evaluate work sites to determine the safest and most effective crane setup and operation, considering factors like ground conditions, load stability, and potential hazards.
• Maintain accurate records of crane operations, including lift plans, maintenance logs, and inspection reports, ensuring compliance with safety standards and project requirements.
• Identify and address any issues that arise during crane operations, making adjustments as necessary to ensure safe and efficient performance.
• Be prepared to implement emergency procedures in the event of equipment failure or other safety incidents, ensuring the safety of personnel and materials.
• Collaborate with other tradespeople and departments to complete projects within specified timelines.
• Effectively perform work on multiple projects concurrently, demonstrating the ability to prioritize tasks and responsibilities successfully.
• Mentor department employees and other assigned crew members, providing support and training as needed.

Required Qualifications:

• Must have at least 7 years of experience operating cranes (with specific experience operating friction cranes), preferably in a marine or shipyard environment; or have graduated from a registered apprenticeship program relevant to the trade.
• Demonstrated expertise in crane operation, load handling, and rigging. Strong understanding of safety protocols and crane maintenance.
• Ability to lift heavy materials, work at heights, and operate in confined spaces.
• Relevant certifications in crane operation are required.

Preferred Skills/Qualifications:

• Previous technical training highly preferred.
• Relevant certifications in rigging or other related fields are preferred.

Security Requirements:

• Ability to obtain DBIDS preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes. The exact weight requirements will be determined by the specific job, but no less than 20 lbs.
• Must be physically agile to perform tasks in naval ships. Able to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces, including enter and moving through manholes.
• May ride ships at sea for extended periods.
• Able to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels.
• Frequent exposure to noise due to machinery and equipment.
• Employee is required to operate trucks, forklifts & man-lifts.
• While performing the duties of this job, you may frequently be required to stand, walk & sit; use hands or fingers; handle or feel; talk and hear. Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, climb and balance, stoop, squat, kneel, twist and crawl.
• Work in extreme temperatures and conditions. At times you will work in areas that have less adequate ventilation.
• Frequent use of respirator.
• Protective clothing or equipment and face shields or goggles shall be worn when welding, cutting, or working with molten metal.

Respect, Pride, Truth, Family – These are our VALUES and the guidelines that make us a leader in our industry. We are pleased and confident in stating that our skilled employees are among the most respected experts in the ship repair industry.

Colonna’s Shipyard Inc., and its divisions, are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

Additionally, Colonna’s Shipyard provides a variety of benefits to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid disability insurances, 401k with match, legal services, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO).