Crane Operator - (Data Center / Mission‑Critical Construction)

JK Moving Services • Full-time • Sterling, Virginia, United States • $40 - $42 / hour • 2d ago

OVERVIEW

The Crane Operator supports safe and efficient lifting operations across data center, construction, and other mission‑critical job sites. This role is responsible for operating mobile and industrial cranes to move, position, and install heavy materials and equipment in coordination with the Rigging Project Manager, Lead Rigger (Rigger III), and rigging teams. The Crane Operator ensures all lifting operations meet regulatory, engineering, and site-specific requirements. This position may also support rigging or material movement tasks when not actively operating a crane.

REQUIREMENTS

Education & Experience

High school diploma or equivalent
3–5 years of crane operation experience in industrial, commercial, or mission‑critical construction environments
Previous experience working closely with rigging teams on complex or critical lifts
Ability to interpret lift plans, load charts, and technical drawings
Experience working in data center environments strongly preferred

Certifications

Valid crane operator certification (NCCCO or equivalent required)
OSHA 10 required; OSHA 30 preferred
Forklift certification preferred
Fall protection certification required
Valid, clean driver’s license (CDL preferred but not required unless needed for specific crane types)

Skills

Expert proficiency operating cranes safely in tight, high‑risk, or congested job sites
Strong understanding of load dynamics, lift planning, and rigging principles
Ability to communicate clearly with riggers, signal personnel, and site leadership
High-level situational awareness with strong hazard recognition skills
Ability to follow engineered lift plans and adjust operations based on site conditions
Strong teamwork, reliability, and the ability to support field operations as needed
Commitment to compliance with OSHA, manufacturer specifications, and site safety procedures

RESPONSIBILITIES

Operate cranes to lift, move, and position materials and equipment on data center, construction, and mission‑critical job sites
Execute lifts in coordination with Rigger III (Lead Rigger), rigging crews, and the Rigging Project Manager
Follow engineered lift plans, load charts, and site specifications to ensure safe operations
Conduct daily and pre‑shift inspections of crane equipment; document findings and address deficiencies
Communicate effectively using hand signals, radios, and standard crane communication protocols
Perform setup, leveling, and dismantling of crane equipment according to manufacturer and safety guidelines
Support rigging operations when not actively operating the crane, including assisting with load preparation or site logistics
Participate in pre‑lift meetings, safety briefings, and toolbox talks
Monitor jobsite conditions to identify hazards, unsafe practices, or changing conditions requiring work stoppage or adjustment
Maintain compliance with OSHA, ANSI, manufacturer requirements, and company safety standards
Document lift activities, inspections, and equipment usage as required
Collaborate closely with the Rigging Project Manager to support schedule needs, field coordination, and customer requirements

Pay: $40.00 - $42.00 per hour

Benefits: