Crane and Heavy Equipment Operator

SAFE Labs; Sanford (NC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading forensic engineering facility as a heavy equipment operator in Sanford, NC. You'll operate cranes and heavy machinery for complex testing projects, ensuring safety and precision in a dynamic environment. Ideal candidates have experience with rigging and a strong work ethic.

Qualifications

• Proven experience operating cranes and heavy machinery.
• Familiarity with rigging procedures and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate crane and rigging systems for lifting large components.
• Perform daily inspections and routine maintenance on equipment.
• Assist with setup and teardown of large-scale test events.

Skills

Safety Best Practices

Attention to Detail

Teamwork

Education

Certification in Crane Operation (NCCCO preferred)

Tools

Crane

Forklift

Boom Lift

Mini-Excavator

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a skilled and safety-conscious heavy equipment operator to join our team full-time. This isn’t just another job behind the controls—this is a chance to be a key part of a team that tackles large, complex, and often one-of-a-kind testing and investigation projects. From moving burned-out vehicles for forensic reconstruction to positioning multi-ton battery enclosures for destructive testing, you’ll play a hands-on role in the work that makes SAFE Labs run.

As a heavy equipment operator, you’ll primarily operate equipment to assist with rigging, lifting, and positioning heavy equipment and materials. On any given day, you might be operating:

• +100 Ton Crane
• Taylor Machine Works TE-250M Heavy Forklift
• Daewoo 15,500 lb Forklift
• Genie Z-45/25J Boom Lift
• Kubota KX033-4 Mini-Excavator
• Kubota skid steer

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, procure, and operate crane
• Safely operate crane and rigging systems for lifting and positioning large components
• Support testing teams by moving equipment into precise configurations
• Load and unload test articles, vehicles, and materials
• Operate heavy equipment as needed based on project requirements
• Perform daily inspections and occasional routine maintenance on all operated equipment
• Follow all safety protocols and contribute to a clean, organized workspace
• Assist with setup and teardown of large-scale test events

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience operating cranes and heavy machinery
• Familiarity with rigging procedures, lift plans, and safety best practices
• Valid driver’s license (CDL is a plus)
• Certification or documented training in crane operation (NCCCO preferred)
• Experience with forklifts, boom lifts, or mini-excavators is a plus
• Comfortable working outdoors and indoors in a dynamic lab/test environment
• A strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to work well on a team

Company Description

SAFE Labs is a leading forensic engineering and testing facility based in Sanford, North Carolina. We investigate the causes behind mechanical failures, fires, and catastrophic events.We also conduct testing on equipment and energy storage systems. Our lab is one of the few in the country capable of handling large lithium-ion battery investigations and testing, which requires precision, planning, and complex logistics.

Company Description

SAFE Labs is a leading forensic engineering and testing facility based in Sanford, North Carolina. We investigate the causes behind mechanical failures, fires, and catastrophic events.We also conduct testing on equipment and energy storage systems. Our lab is one of the few in the country capable of handling large lithium-ion battery investigations and testing, which requires precision, planning, and complex logistics.