Crane Operator

Caterpillar Inc.; South Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 31,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-On & Retention Bonus $2,000

Full-time benefits

Job summary

Caterpillar South Milwaukee is hiring for an Overhead Crane Operator on 3rd shift to move heavy materials within a large manufacturing facility.

The role requires operating 30-ton or larger cranes, strict attention to rigging and safety, and the ability to work full-time on site in South Milwaukee, WI. A minimum of 2 years of experience and crane operator certification are required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience operating 30-ton or larger overhead or jib cranes
• Successful completion of crane operator training and certification
• Familiarity with rigging practices and material handling safety standards

Responsibilities

• Operate 30-ton or larger overhead cranes and jib cranes to move heavy materials
• Safely hitch, un hitch, raise, lower, and position loads using proper rigging techniques
• Select and inspect rigging equipment including chains, clevises, hooks, and slings
• Identify, receive, load, move, and store materials throughout the facility
• Operate power lift trucks as needed
• Follow documented procedures and standard work to ensure safe and efficient operations
• Maintain a clean and organized work area

Skills

Overhead crane operation

Rigging procedures

Material handling safety

Power lift trucks

Education

Crane operator training and certification

Job description

Career Area:

Operations

Job Description:

Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.

When you join Caterpillar, you’rejoining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don’tjust talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

Overhead Crane Operator 3rd Shift

Location: South Milwaukee, WI

Shifts: 3rd Shift (Full-Time)

Bonus: $2,000 Sign-On & Retention Bonus

Pay Progression

• Step 1: $26.47/hr
• Step 2: $27.41/hr
• Step 3: $28.34/hr
• Shift Premium: +$1.00/hr for 3rd shift

About Caterpillar South Milwaukee

Caterpillar is hiring Overhead Crane Operators with experience safely moving and positioning heavy materials, to join our manufacturing team in South Milwaukee, WI.

When you join Caterpillar, you’rejoining a global team who cares not just about the work we do – but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don’tjust talk about progress and innovation here – we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.

At our South Milwaukee facility, you’ll be part of a team that builds some of the largest and most powerful mining machines in the world. This facility specializes in the production ofCat® Electric Rope Shovels (ERS) used in mining operations around the world.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate 30-ton or larger overhead cranes and jib cranes to move heavy materials
• Safely hitch, unhitch, raise, lower, and position loads using proper rigging techniques
• Select and inspect rigging equipment including chains, clevises, hooks, and slings
• Identify, receive, load, move, and store materials throughout the facility
• Operate power lift trucks as needed
• Follow documented procedures and standard work to ensure safe and efficient operations
• Maintain a clean and organized work area

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience operating 30-ton or larger overhead or jib cranes
• Successful completion of crane operator training and certification
• Familiarity with rigging practices and material handling safety standards

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Willingness to work overtime to support production needs
• Strong attention to detail and safety-first mindset

Additional Info

• Full-time, 40 hours/week
• No relocation assistance
• Pre-employment drug screen and medical evaluation required
• Please check your email (including spam/junk folders) for updates

Summary Pay Range:

$22.38 - $29.47

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location,job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.

Benefits:

Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
• Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
• 401(k) savings plans*
• Health Savings Account (HSA)*
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
• Health Lifestyle Programs*
• Employee Assistance Program*Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
• Career Development*
• Incentive bonus*
• Disability benefits
• Life Insurance
• Parental leave
• Adoption benefits
• Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees

Posting Dates:

September 10, 2026 - October 4, 2026

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.

Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.