Aspiring Heavy Equipment Operator: Crane & Lift Specialist

Southern Company; Forest Park (GA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

Southern Company in Forest Park, GA is hiring an Apprentice Heavy Equipment Operator under a union contract. The role focuses on safe operation of heavy cranes and equipment, with non-negotiable pay of $6716 monthly or $38.75 hourly.

Responsibilities include pre-op inspections, rigging, lift planning, coordinating with crews, and supporting emergency response. A valid CDL is required and the candidate must meet safety standards and DOT/OSHA compliance.

Qualifications

• Ability to safely operate equipment in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions.
• Ability to obtain Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans, specifications, and operating procedures.
• Ability to work extended hours, weekends, and emergency response assignments when needed.
• Working knowledge of load placement and load securement when loading, unloading and hauling various types of equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate heavy construction and industrial equipment, including hydraulic road cranes, friction cranes, all-terrain cranes with lifting capacities of 35 tons or greater, heavy-haul truck and trailer combinations, pullers, tensioners, winch-equipped tractors, and other specialized equipment as assigned.
• Safely set up, position, inspect, and operate heavy equipment in accordance with manufacturer specifications, site conditions, lift plans, and company procedures.
• Conduct pre-operational inspections and ensure equipment is properly maintained, serviced, and operating within established safety limits; promptly report deficiencies and unsafe conditions.
• Perform lifting, excavation, hauling, and material-handling activities using approved rigging practices, load charts, lifting devices, and load-securement methods.
• Read and interpret job plans, construction drawings, specifications, and work instructions to ensure accurate execution of assigned work.
• Coordinate with supervisors, crew leaders, spotters, contractors, and other personnel to safely execute work activities and transportation logistics.
• Participate in job safety briefings (JSBs), pre-task planning activities, and daily work coordination meetings.
• Support emergency restoration and storm response activities as required.

Skills

Equipment operation

Crane operation

Safety compliance

Team coordination

Load securement

Job description

Southern Company in Forest Park, GA is hiring an Apprentice Heavy Equipment Operator under a union contract. The role focuses on safe operation of heavy cranes and equipment, with non-negotiable pay of $6716 monthly or $38.75 hourly.

Responsibilities include pre-op inspections, rigging, lift planning, coordinating with crews, and supporting emergency response. A valid CDL is required and the candidate must meet safety standards and DOT/OSHA compliance.