Certified Crane Operator
2011 Dupont Dr., Orange TX, 77630, United States
Job Summary
- The Certified Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes aboard dredges, support barges, and shore-based facilities to support dredging, marine construction, and material-handling operations. This role requires precision equipment handling in challenging marine and waterfront environments, strict adherence to safety regulations, and close coordination with dredge crews, deckhands, and project supervisors.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate barge-mounted, crawler, or pedestal cranes to load, unload, and position pipe, anchors, spuds, rigging, and other dredging equipment.
- Perform daily pre-operation inspections of crane systems, including hydraulics, cables, hooks, boom, and safety devices; report and document any deficiencies.
- Follow rigging plans and load charts to ensure safe lifting capacities are never exceeded.
- Coordinate lifts with signal persons, riggers, and deck crew using standard hand signals and/or radio communication.
- Assist with the placement and movement of pipeline, spuds, anchors, and other dredge support equipment.
- Maintain accurate operational logs, inspection records, and maintenance reports.
- Comply with USACE, OSHA, USCG, and company safety standards at all times.
- Participate in job safety analyses (JSAs) and toolbox talks prior to lifts and daily operations.
- Perform routine and preventive maintenance on crane equipment as required.
- Respond to changing weather, water, and site conditions, adjusting operations to maintain safety.
- Work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and extended hitches typical of dredging projects.
Required Qualifications
- Current NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) certification, or equivalent state/accredited certification, in the applicable crane category (e.g., Lattice Boom Crawler, Articulating, or Fixed Cab).
- Minimum 2–5 years of verifiable crane operation experience, preferably in dredging, marine construction, or heavy civil projects.
- Valid TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential).
- Strong working knowledge of rigging practices, load charts, and lift planning.
- Ability to read and interpret load charts, blueprints, and rigging diagrams.
- Basic mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and routine crane maintenance.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a marine crew.
- USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), if applicable to the vessel type.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, and access confined crane cabs.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical tasks in outdoor marine environments.
- Comfortable working on water, around heavy machinery, and in variable weather conditions.
- Ability to sit for extended periods while operating equipment and maintain sustained focus and situational awareness.
Work Environment
- Position is based aboard dredges, support vessels, or barges, often in remote or offshore locations.
- Work schedule typically follows rotating hitches 20/10 common in the dredging industry.
- Exposure to noise, vibration, weather elements, and marine conditions is expected.
Benefits
- Comprehensive insurance package including health and life insurance.
- 401(k) matching
Additional Duties
- This Job Description does not cover all the required duties, activities, functions, and responsibilities of the position, any of which may change at any time according to the sole and absolute discretion of Muddy Water Dredging LP, with or without notice.
Equal Employment Opportunity
- Muddy Water Dredging is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, disability, marital or civil union or domestic partner relationship, sexual orientation, gender identify or expression, pregnancy status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law or ordinance or regulation.
- Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
ABOUT US
- Founded in 2021, Muddy Water Dredging LP’s goal is to become the premier dredging company for operational performance, environmental quality, and safety. Our company provides diverse services from maintenance dredging to coastal and marsh restoration. Excellent training, a magnificent work culture, and state-of-the-art equipment ensure that we provide market satisfaction while preserving the environment, economy, and community we work and live in.