Marine Crane Operator – Heavy Shipyard Lifts

Site Worker; Portsmouth (VA); On-site; USD 52,348 - 59,236; Full time

Job summary

SiteWorker is seeking an experienced Crane Operator to support shipyard and ship construction operations in Portsmouth, Virginia. This role sits inside an active heavy marine construction environment — lifts are frequently over vessels, dry docks, piers, and active work crews, so precision, communication, and a disciplined safety culture are non-negotiable.

The ideal candidate holds current NCCCO certification across multiple crane types, has hands-on Heavy Marine Construction experience, and is

Qualifications

• Current NCCCO certification across crane types (Core + relevant specialty).
• 1–2 years' crane operating experience in construction or shipyard settings.
• OSHA 10-Hour Construction certification.
• TWIC card or ability to obtain.
• U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the U.S.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, maintain, and repair crane and rigging equipment per OSHA and ASME B30 standards.
• Develop and communicate a documented lift plan prior to execution of any critical or non-routine lift.
• Calculate load capacity using crane load charts, capacity indicators, and rigging configurations.
• Lift, position, and place equipment, hull sections, or other large objects at shipyard or pier-side locations.
• Operate mobile, crawler, gantry, or barge-mounted cranes and coordinate with riggers and signal persons.
• Maintain accurate maintenance, inspection, and lift-plan documentation for compliance and audits.

Skills

NCCCO certified

Marine construction

Crane operator

Rigging coordination

Safety culture

Education

High School Diploma or GED

NCCCO core + specialty certifications

Job description

SiteWorker is seeking an experienced Crane Operator to support shipyard and ship construction operations in Portsmouth, Virginia. This role sits inside an active heavy marine construction environment — lifts are frequently over vessels, dry docks, piers, and active work crews, so precision, communication, and a disciplined safety culture are non-negotiable.

The ideal candidate holds current NCCCO certification across multiple crane types, has hands-on Heavy Marine Construction experience, and is