Crane Operator

Job Description

Job Title: Crane Operator

Job Description

The Yard Worker operates overhead cranes, forklifts, and other heavy equipment to safely move, load, and unload structural steel and fabricated metal components in a large industrial fabrication yard. This role requires extensive hands-on work outdoors, constant movement, and close collaboration with the production and shipping teams to ensure materials flow efficiently through the facility.

Responsibilities

Operate overhead cranes (including 20-ton units) and forklifts to move steel and other raw materials throughout the yard and shop.

Handle a wide range of materials, from small fabricated metal parts to large structural steel beams and columns.

Load and unload materials from incoming and outgoing trucks, ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate handling.

Drive and maneuver trucks and equipment within the yard to stage and position materials as needed.

Use proper rigging techniques to safely lift and move heavy loads in accordance with safety protocols.

Follow established loading practices to prevent damage to materials and equipment.

Utilize an ERP system to record material movements, verify orders, and support inventory control.

Inspect and operate equipment daily, reporting any malfunctions or maintenance needs promptly.

Work on your feet outdoors for the full shift, including climbing ladders onto truck beds and walking significant distances throughout the yard.

Collaborate closely with team members to meet production, shipping, and project deadlines.

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in compliance with company safety standards.

Demonstrate strong attention to safety and follow all shop, yard, and equipment safety procedures at all times.

On the first day, operate a 20-ton overhead crane safely and efficiently with minimal training, applying prior experience and sound judgment.

Essential Skills

At least 3 years of experience operating overhead cranes as a primary job function, working with 5-ton or higher capacity equipment.

Previous experience operating forklifts and overhead cranes in an industrial or fabrication environment.

Hands-on experience working with raw materials such as steel or similar industrial products.

Ability to work on your feet outdoors for the entire shift, including in varying weather conditions.

Comfort with constant movement, including climbing ladders onto truck beds and walking up to or more than 5 miles during a shift.

Strong understanding of and adherence to safety protocols in an industrial setting.

Computer comprehension and ability to work within an ERP system.

Ability to lift and handle heavy objects safely as part of daily duties.

Excellent communication skills and a team-oriented, collaborative mindset.

Customer service mindset when interacting with drivers, internal teams, and other stakeholders.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Experience with rigging and safe lifting practices for heavy and oversized loads.

Familiarity with sit-down forklifts and other heavy equipment such as loaders.

Strong attention to detail when handling materials, verifying loads, and updating systems.Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Tigard, OR.Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $35.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision

• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital

• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)

• Short and long-term disability

• Health Spending Account (HSA)

• Transportation benefits

• Employee Assistance Program

• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Tigard,OR.Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 30, 2026.

About Aerotek:

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.