Crane Operator

$24.00 - $30.00 hourly
  • TaplinGroup LLC
  • Jun 22, 2026

Job Description

We are seeking a skilled and safety-focused Certified Crane Operator to support a major heavy civil construction project in West Michigan. This role involves operating cranes in a complex, fast-paced environment and contributing to critical infrastructure work.

The ideal candidate demonstrates strong technical ability, situational awareness, and a commitment to safety while working in dynamic job site conditions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate cranes (hydraulic, crawler, or rough terrain) to lift, move, and position materials such as precast concrete, trench boxes, piping, aggregates, and equipment
  • Execute lifts in support of civil construction activities including earthwork, underground utilities, roadwork, and structural installations
  • Conduct daily inspections of crane equipment, rigging, and lifting devices; document and report any deficiencies
  • Interpret load charts, lift plans, blueprints, and site layouts to ensure safe lift execution
  • Coordinate closely with riggers, signal persons, foremen, and project supervisors
  • Properly set up crane equipment including outriggers, cribbing/mats, and counterweights based on site conditions
  • Evaluate job site conditions such as soil stability, weather, and work zone hazards
  • Participate in pre-task planning and safety meetings, including critical lift planning
  • Follow all OSHA/MIOSHA and company safety policies and procedures
  • Maintain daily logs, inspection records, and operational documentation
  • Assist with preventative maintenance and coordinate repairs as needed

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Valid NCCCO certification (or equivalent)
  • Valid driver’s license required; CDL preferred
  • State of Michigan licensing (if applicable)
  • [X+] years of crane operation experience in civil or heavy construction
  • Experience supporting infrastructure projects such as utilities, roadwork, or site development
  • Strong knowledge of rigging, lift planning, and load calculations

Skills & Competencies

  • Strong commitment to safety and compliance
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills
  • High situational awareness and problem-solving ability
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining precision
  • Dependable, self-motivated, and accountable

Working Conditions

  • Work performed on active construction sites throughout West Michigan
  • Exposure to outdoor conditions including varying weather, noise, mud, dust, and uneven terrain
  • Regular interaction with heavy equipment, excavation areas, and active work zones
  • May require overtime, weekend work, and travel between job sites

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to operate equipment for extended periods
  • Safely climb in and out of crane cab
  • Good vision, including depth perception and peripheral awareness
  • Ability to lift up to [XX lbs] as needed

Why Join Us

  • Competitive pay and benefits
  • Opportunity to work on high-impact, large-scale infrastructure projects
  • Stable work with growth potential
  • Strong safety-first culture and team environment

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to protected status.

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Bereavement leave
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Work Location: In person