ETS - HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

The Stronghold Companies; La Porte (TX); On-site; USD 45,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Stronghold Companies is seeking an Equipment Operator (Heavy) in La Porte, Texas. This role involves operating overhead cranes to lift and move loads safely in a petrochemical environment.

Ideal candidates should have at least 5 years of crane operation experience and meet physical demands of the job. You will ensure safety compliance and maintain equipment standards while working with a team in potentially adverse environments.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience operating cranes in the petrochemical or refinery industry.
• Knowledge of rigging equipment and hand signals.
• Ability to pass drug/alcohol testing and background checks.

Responsibilities

• Operate overhead cranes to move and position loads safely.
• Maintain crane and hoisting equipment.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and OSHA guidelines.

Skills

Crane operation

Safety compliance

Physical stamina

Leadership

Fluent English

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

NCCER/NCCCO certification

Class 'A' driver’s license

Job description

Summary / Objective

The position of an Equipment Operator (Heavy) is responsible for operating a traveling or stationary overhead crane to lift, move and position loads such as machinery, equipment, products, and solid or bulk materials using hoisting attachments such as hook, sling, or bucket. The Operator will work to achieve project goals of Safety, Quality, Productivity, and Service, maximizing company quality while maintaining client expectations and ensuring a safe working environment. All work will be conducted in accordance with Company policies, procedures, and professional norms.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Operate traveling or stationary overhead crane to lift, move and position loads such as machinery, equipment, products and solid or bulk materials using hoisting attachments such as hooks, sling or bucket.
• Operate multiple levels of cranes.
• Observe load hook‑up and determine safety of load.
• Manipulate or depress crane controls such as pedals, levers and buttons to regulate speed and direction of crane and hoist movement according to written, verbal and/or signal instructions.
• Clean and maintain crane and hoisting mechanism.
• Inspect crane for defective parts and notify Supervisor of defects or malfunctions.
• Attach load to hook or another crane accessory prior to operating crane.
• Inspect and lubricate cables, pulleys, guides and drums.
• Fuel and lubricate equipment.
• Complete job tickets, service quality summaries and all other necessary paperwork.
• Work within precise limits and standards of accuracy.
• Assist with the cleaning and correct loading of company equipment and trailers.
• Ensure safe working environment while performing work in the client’s facilities.
• Promptly report any job scope changes to the Foreman, Superintendent and/or General Foreman.
• Maintain communication with Supervisor while performing tasks.
• Take leadership of assigned duties.
• For safety reasons, read and speak fluent English.
• Follow all Company Safety, Quality Control/Quality Assurance procedures and OSHA guidelines.
• Maintain poise and focus under time constraint and adverse conditions.
• Attend and complete trainings as required by the Company and client.
• Pass all required drug/alcohol testing and background requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position will have some supervisory responsibilities.

Other Duties

Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice that are job‑related and consistent with business necessity.

Work Environment

This job operates in a petrochemical/refinery environment. Exposure to cold working conditions during winter months and hot working conditions during the summer months. Exposure to noise; workers must wear protecting hearing equipment or frequently shout in order to be heard above ambient noise level. In an emergency situation, exposure to hazardous chemicals may occur and the use of a respirator is required. All employees will be required to be fit tested for the various respirators used, as well as the ability to successfully pass a pulmonary function test (PFT).

Physical Demands

The position can be extremely physical at times, requiring frequent bending, stooping, walking, climbing, squatting, reaching, kneeling, pushing/pulling, standing, sitting, hand strength, and dexterity. The operator will frequently lift up to 50 pounds and occasionally more than 51 pounds. Must be able to work in confined spaces, at heights, climb ladders and stairways, and work off platforms. Must possess foot agility and dexterity to operate pedals, foot controls, kick bars and similar tasks. Must be able to see, distinguish colors, shapes, patterns, accurately perceive distances, and detect motion. Must meet OSHA promulgated physical standards.

Position Type / Expected Hours of Work

This is a project‑based position. Typical days and hours are variable and project dependent. Overtime work is common and may be required as duties demand.

Travel

Travel is expected. Extensive travel throughout the U.S. and overnight stays for extended periods.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Stronghold is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Stronghold is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Required Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent work experience and 5 years of prior work experience in related industry. Knowledge of rigging and rigging equipment and crane/rigging hand signals. NCCER/NCCCO certification. Class “A” driver’s license and clean MVR.

Preferred Education and Experience

6+ years of prior work experience in related industry. Petrochemical/refinery experience. First Aid and CPR trained.