Shipyard Heavy Equipment Operator
Position Title: Heavy Equipment Operator – Shipyard
Certification Required: NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators)
Location: Shipyard Facility
Reports To: Yard Supervisor / Operations Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time, Hourly
Position Summary
The Shipyard Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for safely operating cranes and other heavy equipment to support vessel construction, repair, and material handling operations. The ideal candidate holds a current NCCCO certification and has experience operating cranes in an industrial or marine environment. This position plays a critical role in lifting, moving, and positioning heavy materials, equipment, and vessel components throughout the yard.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate cranes and heavy equipment in a shipyard environment
- Perform lifts of structural components, hull sections, engines, and other heavy materials
- Conduct pre-operation inspections and ensure equipment is in safe working condition
- Interpret load charts and follow proper rigging and lifting procedures
- Communicate effectively with riggers and signal persons during lifts
- Follow all NCCCO, OSHA, and company safety standards
- Secure and stabilize loads to prevent shifting or hazards
- Assist with general yard operations as needed
- Maintain equipment cleanliness and report mechanical issues
Equipment May Include
- Mobile craneso cranes (RT, crawler, or truck-mounted)
- Overhead or gantry cranes
- Forklifts
- Telehandlers
- Front-end loaders or other yard equipment
Qualifications
- Current NCCCO certification required
- Minimum 2–3 years of crane or heavy equipment operation experience
- Experience operating cranes in shipyard, marine, or heavy industrial environments preferred
- Strong understanding of load charts and lift planning
- Ability to work in coordination with rigging crews
- Valid driver’s license required
- Ability to pass a drug screening ( required)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to climb into and out of equipment repeatedly
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Good vision and depth perception
- Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment
Work Environment
- Active shipyard with heavy equipment and vessel construction activity
- Exposure to noise, weather, and industrial conditions
- Required use of PPE including hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and steel-toe boots.Personal Flotation Devices (PFD), ear plugs, Fire Retardant Clothes (FRC)
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage based on experience and certification level